• Term: 6 years (eligible for re-selection)
• Involves attending committee meetings and contributing to activities
• Up to two representatives per region

Dear members,

Summarised below are four recent publications regarding findings from patch testing in older patients, photopatch testing and observations on testing to DPG as well as a case report on ACD to hydroquinone.

Hydroquinone Allergic Contact Dermatitis: Widening the Potential Dangers of Black Henna Tattoos.

Bridgewater K and Stone NM, Contact Dermatitis. 2026: 1–3

This case report of hydroquinone contact allergy (used in a combination cream with tretinoin 0.025% and fluocinolone acetonide 0.01% for melasma, purchased through an online personalised prescription skin service) in a patient with a history of severe p-phenylenediamine (PPD) allergy. Patch testing was positive to both hydroquinone and tert-butylhydroquinone as well as strong positive to the product itself. The authors raised the possibility of cross-reactivity between hydroquinone and PPD via the shared metabolite benzoquinone. As access to hydroquinone through online skincare services increases, dermatologists may wish to enquire about previous black henna tattoo or hair dye reactions before prescribing hydroquinone-containing products.

Forgotten Skin: What do our geriatric patch test findings reveal?

Gorgulu Akin B, Kalkan F, Maden S, Bayrak Durmaz M S, Ozdel Ozturk B, Burak Kursun M, & Soyyiğit S. Allergologia Et Immunopathologia. 2026. 54(3), 87-95.

This retrospective patch test study analysed 128 patients aged ≥65 years patch tested with the European Standard Series (ESS). Only 22 patients were ≥75 years of age. Preservatives, fragrances and propolis were the most common contact allergens identified. In patients aged 65–74 years, propolis (20%), fragrance mix I (17%), methyldibromo glutaronitrile (16%) and Peru balsam (15.1%) predominated, whereas MCI/MI (22.7%) was the leading allergen, followed by MI, propolis, and textile dye mix (all 13.6%) in those aged ≥75 years. In both groups, the hands were the most frequent site for allergic contact dermatitis. The prevalence of propolis was postulated to be due to exposure from topical formulations. Positive reactions were less frequent and generally weaker in the older age group, supporting the concept of immunosenescence and diminished T cell responsiveness in advanced age. The findings highlight the continued value of patch testing in older adults and suggest that allergen profiles differ with advancing age.

Prospective Multi-Centre Photopatch Test Study of Photoallergy to Sunscreens and NSAIDs in Europe.

Ralph N, Goossens A, Carrascosa JM, Goncalo M, Wulf HC, Calzavara-Pinton PG, Rhodes LE, Wilkinson M, Bourke J, Eadie E, Moore E, Christou E, Ibbotson SH. Br J Dermatol. 2026 Mar 28:ljag085. doi: 10.1093/bjd/ljag085.

In this prospective multicentre European study, photopatch testing identified photoallergic reactions to sunscreen chemicals in 10% of patients and to topical NSAIDs in 9%. The most common photoallergens were ketoprofen, promethazine, avobenzone (butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane), oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) and etofenamate. No positive photoallergic ACD was detected in patients with chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD). A key methodological finding was that a 24-hour occlusion period before UVA irradiation missed 53% of sunscreen photoallergic reactions and 36% of NSAID photoallergic reactions compared with a 48-hour occlusion. Whilst the topical photoallergens seem relatively stable in nature, the authors recommend a 48-hour occlusion period prior to irradiation to optimise the diagnostic yield of photopatch testing.

Allergic Contact Dermatitis to 1,3-Diphenylguanidine Over a 23-Year Period: Recent Cases Involve Sterile Polyisoprene Gloves.

Brasher TR, Palmer A, Nixon RL. Contact Dermatitis. 2026 May 8. doi: 10.1111/cod.70178. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 42099181.

In this retrospective audit of 2675 patients patch tested between 2002 and 2024, 1.9% had positive reactions to 1,3-diphenylguanidine (DPG), a rubber vulcanisation accelerator. Of these, 31 (62%) were diagnosed with clinically relevant allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). Patients with DPG ACD were more likely to be male, aged over 40 years, have occupationally related dermatitis, and present with hand involvement. Gloves and footwear were the most common exposure sources, with over half of the relevant cases linked to gloves. Notably, the four most recent cases involved healthcare workers exposed to sterile polyisoprene gloves, presenting with predominantly dorsal hand dermatitis and paronychia. The authors conclude that DPG remains an important cause of occupational ACD, particularly in healthcare settings, and highlight sterile polyisoprene gloves as a potential source of exposure that should be considered during patch testing and workplace investigations.

Dear members,

A new corticosteroids information sheet is now available on the Patient Information Leaflets section of the BSCA website.

• Term: 6 years (eligible for re-selection)
• Involves attending committee meetings and contributing to activities
• Up to two representatives per region

Dear members,

The patient information leaflet (PIL) Update Group have created a new information sheet on carvone as well as updated several information leaflets (DMPA, cocamidopropyl betaine, PPD).  These can all be found on the Patient Information Leaflets section of the BSCA website.

Dear members,

This month’s summaries includes insights into contact allergy to propolis, other ingredients in sunscreen products, allergens for consideration in diabetic medical devices and an interesting case of contact allergy to benzalkonium chloride:

Propolis and Beeswax in Cosmetics: A Market Survey and Literature Review on Their Relationship and Role in Allergic Contact Dermatitis.

de Groot AC, Ipenburg NA, Rustemeyer R. Contact Dermatitis. 2026 May;94(5):494-503. doi: 10.1111/cod.70108. Epub 2026 Feb 9.

In this study, a market survey of cosmetic products found no propolis in the ingredients list of any of the products surveyed. Beeswax (Cera alba) was present in some, particularly in lip products. However, literature review found that contact allergy to purified beeswax is rare, and evidence for clinically significant cross-reactivity with propolis is inconsistent. Whilst trace propolis components may persist in beeswax, there is no convincing evidence that these occur at levels sufficient to elicit dermatitis in sensitised individuals. Reported reactions are predominantly cheilitis from lip balms. Overall, the authors concluded that routine avoidance of beeswax containing cosmetics in propolis-patch test positive patients is not indicated.

Allergen Content of Inactive Ingredients in Best-Selling Sunscreens: A Comparison of Key Product Features.

Levin E, Chung C, Hermes K, Lim H, Matthews N. Contact Dermatitis. 2026: 1–7.

In this cross-sectional analysis of 176 best-selling sunscreens identified on 3 largest American online retailers, presence of inactive ingredient allergens was common, with a mean of 2.5 North American 80 Comprehensive Series (NAC-80) allergens per product. The most frequent allergens were vitamin E (tocopherol derivatives), acrylate polymers, fragrance and parabens. Allergen load varied significantly by formulation: organic, spray and sport sunscreens contained more allergens, whereas inorganic, stick, tinted and facial formulations contained fewer. These findings highlight that inactive ingredients represent a substantial and often under-recognised source of contact allergens. Findings of this study are, however, based on the US retail market. Clinicians should consider full ingredient profiles when recommending sunscreens, particularly in patients with ACD or sensitive skin, and may preferentially suggest lower-allergen formulations such as inorganic or stick products.

Patch Testing in Individuals With Diabetes Using Medical Devices. Part 2—Contact Allergy to Medical Device Allergens and New Patch Test Recommendations.

Ulriksdotter J, Mowitz M, Sukakul T, Bruze M, Hamnerius N, and Svedman C. Contact Dermatitis (2026): 1–13.

This cross-sectional study of 204 adults in Sweden with type 1 diabetes using medical devices found 16.2% to have contact allergy to device-related allergens, rising to 28.1% among those with device-associated skin reactions compared with 1.1% in asymptomatic users. The most prevalent allergens were isobornyl acrylate (IBOA) (10.3%), N,N-dimethylacrylamide (DMAA) (4.9%), 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate (2-HEA) (3.4%) and dicyclohexylmethane-4,4’-diisocyanate (DMDI) (2.9%). Notably, findings of ACD to 2-HEA and DMDI underscores the need for repeated chemical analyses and continuous updates of the medical devices series. One third of positive IBOA reactions were found only on day 7, emphasising the importance of late readings on day 7 in suspected cases. The authors recommend an updated diabetes medical devices patch test series in this publication.

Systemic Contact Dermatitis Triggered by Benzalkonium Chloride in Laundry Detergent: A Case Initially Misdiagnosed as Eczema.

Yu M, Meng F, Tian S. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2026 Jan 22;19:577154.

This case report highlights allergic contact dermatitis due to benzalkonium chloride (BAK) in a laundry disinfectant, initially misdiagnosed as eczema. The patient presented with a 2-month history of widespread well-defined erythematous plaques with fine scaling. Standard therapies provided only transient improvement. Careful exposure history identified use of a new laundry disinfectant containing BAK approximately eight weeks before symptom onset. Complete resolution followed allergen avoidance. This case underscores the importance of considering contact allergy in refractory rashes and the need for detailed enquiry into household and textile-related exposures, including laundry products.

Dear members,

Thanks to the hard work of the patient information leaflet (PIL) Update Group, there are new information leaflets on how to perform Repeat Open Application Test (ROAT) as well as for benzoic acid. These can be found on the Patient Information Leaflets section of the BSCA website.

The PDF version of the ROAT leaflet includes an additional infographic on how to perform testing and can be provided to patients who may prefer this.

The National Allergy Strategy was launched at a parliamentary reception in Westminster on 20 April 2026, hosted by Allergy UK at the start of Allergy Awareness Week.  Led by Professor Adam Fox OBE and developed in collaboration with BSACI, Allergy UK, Anaphylaxis UK and The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation, the Strategy aims to improve allergy care and reduce health inequalities across the UK. Dr Graham Johnston and Dr Aparna Sinha represented the BAD and BSCA at this truly inspiring event.  The full strategy is available at: https://www.nasguk.org/

Annual General Meeting of the BSCA 30^th June in Manchester

Notice is given of the Annual General Meeting of the BSCA on the morning of Tuesday 30^th June at Manchester Central

 Agenda

-President’s update

-Officer’s updates

-Committee change

The officers and members of the Committee will be re-elected at the Annual General Meeting

Proposals for alteration of the Constitution at the BSCA AGM June 2026

Alterations of the constitution can only occur at an Annual General Meeting. Notice of the proposals below by Dr Catherine Holden and duly seconded by Dr Philippa Cousen are now being circulated with notice two months before the meeting. For adoption, a two-thirds majority of those voting will be necessary.

We propose a new membership category of ‘associate’ membership’ to align with the BAD.

Current category:

8.Membership will be available to anyone interested in Contact Dermatitis upon application to and approved by, the Committee.

Is changed to:

8.Membership will be available to anyone interested in Contact Dermatitis upon application to and approved by the Committee:

• Ordinary membership with voting rights will be available to practising dermatologists, (including research) in UK and Ireland on the Specialist register for Dermatology of the GMC or the Irish Medical Council, UK and Ireland dermatology trainees on training schemes (with NTN) and SAS dermatology doctors fully committed to secondary care dermatology for 4 years (or more).
• Associate membership without voting rights will be available to doctors on the GMC or the Irish Medical Council, overseas consultant or trainee dermatologists in practice outside the United Kingdom and Ireland, nurses who are members of the British Dermatological Nursing Group (BDNG) or Irish Dermatology Nurses Association (IDNA), and scientists and relevant other non-medics who have a significant practice involving dermatological patients or cutaneous allergy.

Current Committee:

President: Natalie Stone
Secretary: Philippa Cousen
Meetings Secretary: Donna Thompson
Membership Secretary: Catherine Holden
Treasurer: Sarah Wakelin

Regional representation:

London and South East: David Orton, Sarah Wakelin

East Midlands and East: Graham Johnston

North East, Yorkshire and Humber: Philippa Cousen, Mark Wilkinson

North West: Jason Williams

West Midlands: Cat Wootton, Donna Thompson

South West and South Central: Aparna Sinha, Deirdre Buckley

Wales: Natalie Stone, Mabs Chowdhury

Ireland: Johnny Bourke

Scotland: Chandra Bertram, Sharizan Abdul Ghaffar

UK representative on the European Society of Contact Dermatitis (ESCD) committee: Deirdre Buckley

New Consultant Representative: Siobhan MacCarthy

Specialty and Associate Specialist Representative: Catherine Holden

Research and Audit Representative: Livia Soriano

Digital Representative: Ying Teo

Trainee Representatives: Kate Dear, Lydia Scrivens, Yasmine Khan

Dear members,

Summarised below are four recent publications which we hope will be of interest including assessment of testing with the 2021/2022 European baseline series and trends in sensitisation to hair care products:

Patch Test Results With the European Baseline Series, 2021/2022—Joint European Results of the ESSCAA and the EBSB Working Groups of the ESCD, and the GEIDACC. W.Uter, S. M.Wilkinson, O.Aerts, et al. Contact Dermatitis (2026): 1–16, doi.org/10.1111/cod.70134.

European surveillance data from 18, 832 patients patch testing with the European Baseline Series (2021- 2022) show largely stable sensitisation patterns, supporting its continued clinical validity. Nickel remains the most common allergen (18.9%), while fragrances continue to contribute a significant burden (13.8% positivity to at least one marker). Preservative allergy persists with MCI/MI and MI positivity (5-5.5%) approaching pre-epidemic levels, and improved detection of formaldehyde at higher concentrations. Of the allergens added to the series in 2019, propolis (5.5%) and 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA, 3.6%) were the most frequently detected. Methyldibromo glutaronitrile (MDBGN) sensitisation remains unexpectedly high despite regulatory bans, whereas parabens and quarternium-15 now show much lower levels, supporting their removal from the 2023 series. Overall, findings reinforce current baseline testing while highlighting allergen trends.

Contact Allergy to Ingredients of Hair Cosmetics Associated with Occupational and Non-Occupational Exposure-Trends from 1995 to 2020 in Central Europe, with or without Regulation.

Uter W, Schwensen JFB, Blömeke B, Gefeller O, John SM, Bieck C, Schubert S. Contact Dermatitis. 2026 Apr;94(4):347-363. doi: 10.1111/cod.70079. Epub 2025 Dec 30. PMID: 41472370; PMCID: PMC12956424.

Long-term IVDK surveillance data (1995–2020) demonstrate that contact allergy to hair cosmetic ingredients remains clinically important, with distinct patterns between occupational (hairdressers) and consumer exposure. Hair dye components, particularly PPD and related intermediates, remain relevant sensitisers with a notable and increasing burden in consumers, whereas trends in hairdressers are generally stable. Increasing sensitisation to toluene‐2,5‐diamine (PTD) in consumers was observed. Several allergens show persistent or rising sensitisation (e.g. hydroquinone), while others illustrate regulatory success, most clearly glyceryl thioglycolate, where sensitisation has clearly fallen in younger cohorts following withdrawal. Bleaching agents (e.g. ammonium persulfate) remain more relevant occupational allergens, whereas preservatives show mixed trends influenced by wider exposure patterns (including the MI epidemic). Overall, the data highlight increasing consumer-driven sensitisation, strong age effects, and variable impact of regulation, underscoring the need for continued surveillance and improved risk management of hair cosmetic ingredients.

Successful treatment of poison ivy dermatitis with upadacitinib.

Tai H, Tang A, Levine J, Talia J, Ungar B. JAAD Case Rep. 2026 Feb 9;70:69-71. doi: 10.1016/j.jdcr.2026.01.053. PMID: 41798158; PMCID: PMC12966863.

This case report describes the successful use of the JAK1 inhibitor upadacitinib in a 54-year-old patient with severe poison ivy (Toxicodendron) allergic contact dermatitis and a background of pityriasis rubra pilaris, on guselkumab. There was rapid resolution of itch and pain within 24 hours of administration of upadacitinib (30mg for 2 weeks followed by 15mg for 2 weeks) and near-complete resolution by 4 weeks. JAK inhibitors block cytokine signalling through the JAK–STAT pathway, reducing activation of multiple T-cell–driven inflammatory axes (Th1, Th2, Th17) central to allergic contact dermatitis. Although limited to a single case, this report suggests a potential role for JAK inhibitors as a therapeutic option in severe cases of allergic contact dermatitis and warrants further study.

Letter: A Case of Propylene Glycol Allergic Contact Dermatitis Associated With Soolantra. Roche D, Nolan B, Twomey N, Golchin R, Bourke J. Dermatitis. 2026 Mar 23:17103568261429237. doi: 10.1177/17103568261429237. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 41869959.

This case describes allergic contact dermatitis secondary to propylene glycol (PG) in a patient with a chronic facial eruption initially managed as rosacea and treated with ivermectin 1% cream (Soolantra). The dermatitis worsened with ongoing use, and patch testing demonstrated a strong positive reaction to PG and PG-containing products (including Soolantra and two cosmetic products). PG, although considered a weak sensitiser, is ubiquitous in topical products and may be under-recognised as a clinically relevant allergen. This report highlights the importance of reviewing excipient ingredients and considering patch testing in patients with persistent or treatment-refractory dermatitis, particularly when symptoms localise to sites of topical application.