ABSTRACT
The scalp is frequently-sometimes daily-exposed to a variety of potential allergenic compounds including dyes and bleaches, permanent wave solutions and straighteners, cleansing, conditioning, and styling agents, as well as fragrances, preservatives, and emulsifiers. These allergens come into contact not only with the superficial skin of the scalp, but may also collect deeper within the hair follicle.1 It is not surprising then that allergic contact dermatitis to hair care products is fairly common. In fact, the ingredients within hair care products have been found to be the third most common source of cosmetic allergens in the United States.2,3 In addition to cosmetic agents, scalp-specific topical medicaments such as minoxidil, anti-seborrheic preparations,
and topical steroids have also been documented as sources of scalp allergens.
