Potential Allergens in Wound Care Products

Patients with chronic wounds have an increased risk of developing allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). Reports of ACD to wound care products are not uncommon. To minimize contact sensitization in patients with chronic wounds, allergenic ingredients should be avoided when possible. With more than 5000 wound care products available in the United States, it is essential to understand which products can be chosen to minimize allergen exposures. Ingredients in wound care products in 5 wound care clinics across 2 institutions were cross-referenced with the American Contact Dermatitis Society core allergen series 2020. Of the 267 wound care products included, 97 (36.3%) contained at least one allergen, including 31 dressings/wraps (22.3%), 25 medications (69.4%), 12 cleaning supplies (36.3%), 16 tapes/glues (80%), 2 instruments (14.3%), 8 emollients and vehicles (61.5%), 1 ostomy product (11.1%), and 2 odor-eliminating products (66.7%). Thirty-four different allergens were identified across all products. The most common allergens present in the included items were acrylates and propylene glycol, followed by parabens, cetyl stearyl alcohol, tocopherol, fragrance, and phenoxyethanol. Many wound care products contain at least one contact allergen, highlighting the importance of clinician education on ACD in the context of wound care product selection.