Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 4, 2026

A Mouse Ear Model for Allergic Contact Dermatitis Evaluation
Published on: March 24, 2023
Analysis of the prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis to sunscreen: a cohort study
Background:
As the use of sunscreens becomes more prevalent, reports of adverse effects to sunscreens have increased.
Objective:
To analyze a patch test database for the prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to sunscreen.
Methods:
The database was searched for positive patch test reactions to benzophenone-3. Charts were also reviewed for those who were further tested to the sunscreen series.
Results:
Twenty-three of the 1,527 patients seen were tested to the sunscreen series. Of these, only 4 patients had a positive reaction to a sunscreen chemical or to the product they were using. In addition, 8 of the 1,527 patients who had no specific history of sunscreen allergy reacted to benzophenone-3.
Conclusion:
ACD to sunscreen was found to be very uncommon (0.8%). Other final diagnoses included ACD to excipients such as fragrances or preservatives and suspected photosensitive disorders.
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