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. 2017 Dec;15(3-4):75–87. doi: 10.3121/cmr.2017.1363

Table 5.

Possible adverse effects encountered with moisturizers1,7,16

Adverse effect Possible causes
Subjective irritation Humectants: Lactic acid, urea, preservatives such as benzoic or sorbic acid
Irritant reactions Proteins in vegetable oils, urea, hydroxyl acids, propylene glycols, solvents
Allergic contact dermatitis Lanolin, propylene glycols, vitamin E, Kathon CG, preservatives, fragrances, sunscreens, herbal ingredients (such as tea tree oil, olive oil, chamomile oil, aloe
Occlusive folliculitis Petrolatum, mineral oils
Photosensitivity eruptions and photomelanosis Fragrances, hydroxyl acids, preservatives, sunscreens
Cosmetic acne Occlusive oils used in water in oil preparations
Contact urticaria Preservatives such as sorbic acid, fragrances, balsam of Peru
Poisoning in burn patients Propylene glycol
Intoxication Salicylic acid