Analysis of the Prevalence of Allergic Contact Dermatitis to Sunscreen: A Cohort Study

Background: As the use of sunscreens becomes more prevalent, reports of adverse effects to sunscreens have increased. Objective: To analyze a patch test database for the prevalence of allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) to sunscreen. Methods: The database was searched for positive patch test reactions to benzophenone-3. Charts were also reviewed for those who were further tested to the sunscreen series. Results: Twenty-three of the 1,527 patients seen were tested to the sunscreen series. Of these, only 4 patients had a positive reaction to a sunscreen chemical or to the product they were using. In addition, 8 of the 1,527 patients who had no specific history of sunscreen allergy reacted to benzophenone-3. Conclusion: ACD to sunscreen was found to be very uncommon (0.8%). Other final diagnoses included ACD to excipients such as fragrances or preservatives and suspected photosensitive disorders.