Compliance in contact allergy with focus on cosmetic labelling: a qualitative research project

Elimination of the allergen is an effective remedy in allergic contact dermatitis. When contact allergy to a preservative is diagnosed, the patient is instructed to read the labelling of contents and to avoid the use of products containing the allergens. The present study, using qualitative research methods, was performed to examine how socially different groups of patients handle everyday life with allergic contact dermatitis caused by preservatives in consumer products. 8 women were interviewed about reading the ingredient labelling on cosmetic products. Observational studies were carried out as well. The study illustrates that the patients experienced problems when trying to read the labelling of contents. The problems were related to social status and ranged from not being able to read the chemical names of the preservatives to doubting the accuracy of the ingredient labelling. The study indicates that non-compliance with instructions on reading the ingredient labelling is not only a question of patients' lack of knowledge, but also the result of patients not possessing the resources necessary to act in accordance with the medical instructions. The present study is, to our knowledge, the first to apply qualitative research methods to contact dermatitis. The study points out interesting observations about social status and resources in relation to compliance. Further research on this area is necessary to expose the extent of the problem.