Euxyl K 400: a new sensitizer in cosmetics

Contact Dermatitis. 1991 Aug;25(2):89-93. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0536.1991.tb01794.x.

Abstract

Euxyl K 400 is a preservative for cosmetics and toiletries containing 2 active ingredients, 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutan and 2-phenoxyethanol. 2057 consecutive patients with contact dermatitis were patch tested with Euxyl K 400 2.5% pet. and ethanol. A positive patch test occurred in 24 patients (1.2%). The source of sensitization was traced in 8 patients to their cosmetics. Both leave-on and rinse-off products were responsible. Further patch tests with Euxyl K 400 0.5% pet. and phenoxyethanol 5% pet. were performed in 11 patients. A positive patch test to phenoxyethanol was detected in 1 of them. Only 3 patients showed a mild reaction to Euxyl K 400 0.5%. A provocative use test with a lotion preserved with Euxyl K 400 0.1% was positive in 5 of these 11 patients. Patients with Euxyl K 400 sensitivity showed a high prevalence of positive patch tests to other common ingredients of cosmetics. Since the use of Euxyl K 400 in cosmetic products is rapidly increasing, it should be included in the patch test series for patients with suspected cosmetic allergy.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local / adverse effects
  • Child
  • Cosmetics / adverse effects*
  • Dermatitis, Contact / etiology*
  • Ethylene Glycols / adverse effects*
  • Facial Dermatoses / chemically induced
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Nitriles / adverse effects*
  • Preservatives, Pharmaceutical / adverse effects

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents, Local
  • Cosmetics
  • Ethylene Glycols
  • Nitriles
  • Preservatives, Pharmaceutical
  • phenoxyethanol
  • 1,2-dibromo-2,4-dicyanobutane