Sulfites: Allergen of the Year 2024

Acute allergic contact dermatitis caused by sulphites in a cosmetic and a pharmaceutical cream

“…Regarding the short delay between the first application of Sebium Sensitive and the acute dermatitis onset, our patient was probably previously sensitised to sulphites, which could potentially explain her previous episodes of facial erythema. Moreover, the exacerbation after applying KETODERM can be explained by a cross‐reaction between sodium sulphite and sodium metabisulphite 1,6 . Just as the American Contact Dermatitis Society chose sulphites as the Allergen of the Year for 2024, 1 our rare case highlights the relevance of sensitisation to sulphites.…”

“…Moreover, the exacerbation after applying KETODERM can be explained by a cross‐reaction between sodium sulphite and sodium metabisulphite 1,6 . Just as the American Contact Dermatitis Society chose sulphites as the Allergen of the Year for 2024, 1 our rare case highlights the relevance of sensitisation to sulphites. It is also a reminder to be suspicious of all topical products used, even pharmaceuticals and cosmetics labelled to be appropriate for ‘sensitive’ skin.…”

“…Sulphites are widely used for their antioxidant and preservative properties, notably in pharmaceuticals and personal care products 1–3 . Even though sulphites are recognised as contact allergens, their relevance in cases of acute contact dermatitis can rarely be labelled as definite 1–5 .…”

“…Sulphites are widely used for their antioxidant and preservative properties, notably in pharmaceuticals and personal care products 1–3 . Even though sulphites are recognised as contact allergens, their relevance in cases of acute contact dermatitis can rarely be labelled as definite 1–5 . We present a case of acute facial contact dermatitis caused by a cosmetic cream designated for ‘sensitive’ skin and aggravated by a pharmaceutical cream.…”