- A study of 208 hypoallergenic products found that three out of four caused skin irritation
- Researchers have found ingredients that have previously been linked to allergies
Most personal care products that claim to be hypoallergenic still contain ingredients that can cause uncomfortable skin conditions, a major study has found.
The term is used by companies to advertise products, such as shampoos and deodorants, that are considered safe for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
It means the item does not contain any ingredients that could irritate the skin, and most pharmacies now stock a range of cosmetics, shaving creams and body washes labeled as hypoallergenic.
But a report by researchers at Wrexham Maelor Hospital found that of 208 hypoallergenic products sold in Britain, almost three quarters contained an ingredient that causes allergies.
Experts say the findings raise serious questions about the liberal use of the term.
Researchers tested 208 hypoallergenic products on sale in Britain and found that three-quarters contained ingredients linked to skin complaints
One in five Britons suffer from some form of skin complaints, research shows
“Companies are increasingly advertising their products as hypoallergenic, which means 'reduced allergy,'” the study authors write. 'Marketing may not reflect the actual allergenicity of the products.'
Research shows that around a fifth of the UK population experience allergic skin reactions to certain products, such as dermatitis. Research shows that around two-thirds of people in the UK report having sensitive skin.
The study, published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, found that the most common allergen in hypoallergenic products was a fragrance, which was present in 40 percent of the products tested.
Earlier this year, the British Association of Dermatologists warned patients with skin conditions about the unregulated nature of products labeled hypoallergenic.
“It is important that consumers are aware that it is not unusual for products to contain common allergens,” said Prof. Mabs Chowdhury, president of the association. 'There is no official standard for what a hypoallergenic product is. However, it is reasonable for users to expect that these products are unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.”