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Contact depigmentation caused by an azo dye in alta
A K Bajaj1, R K Pandey, K Misra
1M.L.N. Medical College Allahabad, India.
Contact Dermatitis
|June 20, 1998
Summary
Cosmetic alta, a red dye used by Indian women, caused skin depigmentation. Analysis revealed Crocein Scarlet MOO and rhodamine B dyes, with patch tests confirming depigmentation from alta, CSM, and PPD.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cosmetic Science
- Toxicology
Background:
- Alta, a traditional scarlet-red cosmetic, is applied to the feet by some Indian women.
- Depigmentation at the application site has been anecdotally associated with alta use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the components of alta responsible for depigmentation.
- To investigate the depigmenting potential of alta and its constituents.
Main Methods:
- Chemical analysis (chromatography and spectroscopy) of three alta brands.
- Dermal patch testing with alta, Crocein Scarlet MOO (CSM), and para-phenylenediamine (PPD).
Main Results:
- Alta contains two dyes: Crocein Scarlet MOO (CSM) and rhodamine B.
- Patch testing induced depigmentation at the application sites of alta, CSM, and PPD.
- This is the first report of azo dyes like CSM causing depigmentation.
Conclusions:
- CSM and rhodamine B are present in alta.
- CSM, a component of alta, can act as a depigmenting agent.
- The depigmenting effects of azo dyes warrant further investigation.