Contact depigmentation induced by propyl gallate

Abstract

We report a 41-year-old woman who developed contact depigmentation at several body sites after using lipstick, liquid kumkum (a colouring usually made from turmeric or saffron used for social/religious markings), and plastic or rubber slippers (flip-flops). Propyl gallate, a common ingredient to all and a previously undocumented depigmenting agent, was incriminated on patch testing with the Indian standard series.

Chemical Leukoderma to Hair Dye in a Singaporean Indian – A Rare, Adverse Cosmetic Outcome in Relation to a Ubiquitous Cosmetic Product

“…It does appear that majority of Chemical Leukoderma cases have been reported in Indian patients [1][2][3]5,7,8], as with our patient. Other than inherent genetic susceptibility, there are a number of plausible explanations.…”

Chemical leucoderma induced by ear-ring stoppers made of polyvinyl chloride

“…[1] The majority of these chemicals are aromatic or aliphatic derivatives of phenols and catechols. [2] Herein, a case of CL secondary to ear-ring stoppers made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is illustrated.…”

Contact leucoderma induced by fentanyl patches

“…The main culprits are chemicals with sulfhydryl groups, and aromatic or aliphatic derivatives of phenols and catechols . Other substances that have been implicated include p ‐pheylenediamine, cinnamic aldehyde, acrylates and propyl gallate . There is a risk of inducing depigmentation from patch testing with such chemicals.…”

“…There is a risk of inducing depigmentation from patch testing with such chemicals. Spontaneous repigmentation may occur if the causative agent is avoided, but depigmentation may persist even after treatment with topical corticosteroids, topical calcineurin inhibitors or phototherapy …”

“…The mechanisms involved in contact leucoderma are not well understood. One theory is that chemicals such as phenols and catechols have a direct toxic effect on melanocytes, as has been shown with the melanin precursor, tyrosine . Others have demonstrated that tyrosinase‐related protein‐1, a melanocyte‐specific enzyme, may mediate the actions of phenols/catechols by catalysing their catabolism with release of oxygen radicals …”