Antioxidants in cosmetics

Antioxidants are commonly added to cosmetics. Allergy to these substances will be missed unless specifically looked for. During a 2-year period, patients with facial dermatitis have been routinely tested with butylhydroxyanisole and tertiary butylhydroquinone. 7 patients are reported who have been shown to have an allergic contact dermatitis to an antioxidant in their cosmetics or toiletries.