Tolerance of Oat-Based Topical Products in Cereal-Sensitized Adults with Atopic Dermatitis

Background: Few data suggest oat-based cosmetics may cause allergic reactions in atopic subjects, especially when sensitized to cereals. Objectives: To evaluate the risk of immediate and delayed allergic reactions to repeated and maximized applications (RMA) of oat-containing cosmetics and oat extracts and their tolerance in cereal-sensitized atopic adults. Methods: Open-label pilot study in 12 cereal-sensitized atopic adults over 45 days. Open tests and RMA were performed with Rhealba (R) oat-containing cosmetics at day 0 (D0) and D10, and from D10 to D31. Patch and prick tests were performed at D7 and D42 with wheat and Rhealba oat extracts and the study cream. Results: The RMA of oat-based cosmetics in cereal-sensitized atopic adults did not induce any immediate or delayed allergic reaction and was well tolerated. No immediate or delayed positive skin test to oat extracts was observed. Conclusion: Sensitization to cereals does not increase the risk of allergic reactions to oat-containing cosmetics. Copyright (C) 2009 S. Karger AG, Basel