BackgroundChlorhexidine may cause both type I and type IVallergy, but the mode of sensitization is unknown. It is awidely used disinfectant in the health care setting aswell as an ingredient in cosmetic products, but theextent of use is unknown. According to the EuropeanCosmetic Directive, chlorhexidine is allowed in cosmeticproducts in a concentration of up to 0.3%. The aim ofthis study was to identify which types of cosmetic productsthat contain chlorhexidine, and to measure theirconcentration of chlorhexidine.MethodThe study took place February 2013 April 2013 inCopenhagen, Denmark. All cosmetic products in 14supermarkets, one hairdresser, one beauty and retailstore and one optician were checked for chlorhexidine byreading the ingredient label. All products were photographedand product names noted to avoid duplicates.The products containing chlorhexidine were purchased.Chlorhexidine concentration was measured in tenselected products by high-performance liquid chromatography(HPLC) with ultraviolet (UV)-detector.ResultsChlorhexidine was found in 82 out of 2310 cosmeticproducts (3.5%) in the following categories: Conditioners(n=30), hair dyes (n=13), hair treatments (n=10), creams(n=9), face washes (n=4), wet wipes (n=4), hair stylingproducts (n=4), skin tonics (n=3), contact lens fluids(n=2), make up removers (n=2) and mouth washes(n=1). The concentration of chlorhexidine was measuredin ten products to 0.03% 1.54%. Two products, bothcreams, had a concentration above the allowed 0.3%(0.43% and 1.54%, respectively).ConclusionIn this market survey, chlorhexidine was identified in 82different cosmetic products (3.5%), predominantly hairproducts. Two creams had a concentration of chlorhexidinehigher than allowed by the European CosmeticDirective. The extent of use of chlorhexidine in thehealth care setting as well as the relevance for allergicsensitization should be further explored.
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