Allrgic reaction to a facial cleanser

[whataboutbob]

Just wanted to alert people that I have suffered an allergic reaction to Clarin's cream cleanser. It caused my eyelids to develop eczema- not a good look. I believe the allergen is methylisothiazolinone or MI. There has been lots in the press about it. I have eczema on hands and legs but never had it on my face before. I stopped and moved to another cleanser without MI and eventually it cleared up. Having run out of the 2nd cleanser, and finding a bottle of the Clarins in my cupboard I used it again. Same thing happened. I have now chucked the Clarins cleanser out and am reading all labels to make sure the cosmetic does not contain MI.

[LeoandBoosmum]

I know the misery of allergies so I hope you feel better soon. Incidentally, that chemical as well as Methylchloroisothiazolinone.
www.skinsmatter.com/blog/?p=78

I was going to buy some Method handwash when I saw it contains both of these ingredients, so check stuff like handcreams, shampoos, handwash, shower gels as you are likely to touch your eyes - even unwittingly - after being in contact with items containing these ingredients.

The whole move towards removing parabens - which I think is ridiculous as evidence of causing harm is limited...there is a lot od scaremongering out there - has resulted in companies using the above, plus other potentially irritating preservatives like benzyl alcohol, phenoxyethanol, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives etc.

I have never rated Clarins. I am no expert but from experience and knowledge I've gleaned over the years - out of necessity - it is definitely not the natural brand they would like you to think!

People can react to anything but explore Trilogy's sensitive line (the cream cleanser can be used on eyes). It's not super clean in terms of ingredients but Kiehl's Supremely Gentle Eye Makeup Remover is fairly innocuous and gentle (I use it all over my dampened face then rinse). I love Jurlique for moisturiser and they are great at giving samples if you call them (though they do contain esential oils which can be problematic for some).

Hope you feel better soon.
Ps. You should have returned the Clarins to the counter you bought it from and reported the reaction to them.

[LeoandBoosmum]

*of

[whataboutbob]

Thanks so much Leo this is most helpful and informative. I agree Clarins is not really all that natural. I would definitely have returned it if I'd bought it at a Clarins counter. Unfortunately, i bought it at my hospital , one of those sales where someone sets up a stall and sells loads of different brands at reduced prices. I think it was in a presentation that is now discontinued.
I have mostly switched to la Roche Posay (owned by L'Oreal but seems to specialise in low allergen products). So far have been happy with their stuff. I love Jurlque too.
Lastly, I have started making my own soaps . A friend showed me how. Really quite easy and you are in total control of ingredients (I use olive oil, coconut oil and shea to make a moisturising soap). But you do have to use a nasty chemical in the process, sodium hydroxide.
PS eczema is now starting up on my underarms, I reckon it's the sensitisation by the clarins product that is causing me to break out in other parts. Ho hum.

[MakeMeWarmThisWinter]

Have a look at Avene too if you like La Roche Posay - their moisturisers and cleansers are calming and lovely. I have just discovered their 'Hydrance Optimale Riche Rich Hydrating Cream' (had to check its name there!) and it is the best moisturiser I have ever used. Feels light but calming and deeply moisturising, my skin feels calmed and soothed by it instead of having to deal with something on it, if that makes sense.

[FrugalFashionista]

What I love soap making, am a big fan of castile soap these days after getting sensitized to some common allergen in cosmetica first and then getting perioral dermatitis last year. Sodium hydroxide is just lye - caustic and dangerous yes but completely innocuous in soap. Just lent them cure for a month or so.

[whataboutbob]

Definitely FF. I cure 4-6 weeks and it s not a problem. Have an "Aleppo" soap on the go at the moment and am trying to make myself wait 9 months! Thanks make me warm. I have noticed the Avene products on the shelf next to la Roche Posay. I will try out the moisturiser. Wishing everyone an allergy free Christmas!