Going Coconuts from Your Skin Allergy?
The 2017 Allergen of the Year… and It Might Be in Your Shampoo
Contact dermatitis is one of the most common reasons people visit a dermatologist. It usually shows up as an itchy, irritated rash that appears after your skin comes into contact with something it doesn’t like. Sometimes it’s obvious — like a rash from cheap earrings or poison ivy. But other times, the cause is much harder to figure out.
That’s where dermatology gets a little bit like detective work.
Each year, the American Contact Dermatitis Society names an “Allergen of the Year,” highlighting ingredients that are causing more allergic reactions than people realize. In 2017, the winner was alkyl glucosides — and the surprising part is where they’re commonly found.
What Are Alkyl Glucosides?
Alkyl glucosides are ingredients used in many cosmetic and personal care products as surfactants, which help products foam and cleanse. They are often derived from plant sources like coconut oil or palm oil and are biodegradable, which makes them popular in products marketed as natural, organic, or eco-friendly.
That sounds like a good thing — but dermatologists have actually seen an increase in allergic contact dermatitis caused by these ingredients over the past several years.
Where Are They Found?
You might find alkyl glucosides in:
- Skin care products
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Hair dyes
- Styling mousse
- Cleansing soaps and body washes
- Fragrances
- Tanning products
- Some “natural” or “organic” products
- Even coconut oil–based products
So if you develop an itchy rash and recently switched to a new “natural” product, that could be a clue.
Why This Matters
When we treat contact dermatitis, the most important step is not just treating the rash — it’s finding the cause so the rash doesn’t keep coming back. Sometimes that cause is obvious, but many times it takes careful ingredient review or even patch testing to identify the culprit.
If you are someone who develops unexplained rashes, sensitive skin, or reactions to products, it may be helpful to start checking ingredient labels for names like:
- Decyl glucoside
- Lauryl glucoside
- Cetearyl glucoside
- Coco glucoside
The Takeaway
Not all reactions come from harsh chemicals — sometimes they come from ingredients marketed as gentle or natural. If you develop a persistent rash after starting a new product, stop using it and consider having your skin evaluated.
Dermatology is often about solving mysteries, and sometimes the answer is hiding right on the ingredient label.
If you need help treating contact dermatitis or identifying a possible skin allergy, schedule an appointment with Midwest Dermatology.
