The SSCI-Net and Related Research to Minimize the Risk and Identify the Causes of Cosmetic-Induced Skin Disorders

Abstract

Japan experienced two outbreaks of serious cosmetic-induced health hazards in 2011 and 2013. One was a transdermal sensitization wheat allergy due to hydrolyzed wheat powder in face soaps, and the other was Rhododenol(rhododendrol)-induced leukoderma. These cosmetic-induced skin disorders could have been prevented if an action had been taken when a small number of cases were discovered. The authors had started a study in 2010, before the two health problems occurred, to survey cases of allergic contact dermatitis every year after the end of the business year to identify the products causing allergic contact dermatitis and their responsible ingredients. These incidents subsequently led to the establishment of SSCI-Net, a general incorporated association, in April 2016 as an outcome of a research granted from AMED to develop an online case registration system from the web to speed up case registration. This article provides an overview of a series of SSCI-Net-related studies conducted around 2016 that aimed to identify the causative products of cosmetic-induced skin disorders, compile guidance on how to identify causative ingredients and minimize risk by monitoring skin disorders after cosmetic sales.