[Allergy to dyes in stockings]

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Allergology
• Textile Science

Background:

• Skin allergies from hosiery dyes are under-recognized.
• Evidence suggests a higher prevalence of stocking dye allergy than commonly believed.
• Contact dermatitis is a significant concern in textile wear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence and specific agents of skin allergies caused by stocking dyes.
• To identify the most common allergenic dyes in hosiery.
• To explore potential cross-reactions with other azo dye applications.

Main Methods:

• Clinical observations from an allergy department.
• Consumer surveys conducted at retail stocking counters.
• Laboratory analysis of stocking dyes using skin tests.
• Examination of textile materials for dye composition.

Main Results:

• Azo dye dispersion yellow 3, dispersion orange 3, and dispersion red 1 were identified as the primary contact allergens.
• These key allergens were present in 18-21 out of 23 examined pairs of hose.
• Azo dye dispersion blue 124 was found to be predominant among allergens in textile materials.
• Potential for cross-reactions with azo dyes in cosmetics, toiletries, food, and hair dyes was noted.

Conclusions:

• Stocking dyes are a significant, often overlooked, cause of allergic contact dermatitis.
• Specific azo dyes are frequently implicated, necessitating awareness among consumers and clinicians.
• Individuals with dye allergies may benefit from switching to naturally colored textiles.