Riehl's melanosis: pigmented contact dermatitis caused by fragrances

J Am Acad Dermatol. 1989 Nov;21(5 Pt 2):1057-60. doi: 10.1016/s0190-9622(89)70295-4.

Abstract

We report a case of a 27-year-old woman with a patchy, dark brown hyperpigmentation on the face. Patch tests were positive to lemon oil, geraniol, and hydroxycitronellal. A compact face powder that the patient used contained two of these chemicals. Hyperpigmentation disappeared within 6 months after the patient avoided contact with cosmetics containing these fragrances.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cosmetics / adverse effects*
  • Dermatitis, Contact / etiology*
  • Dermatitis, Contact / pathology
  • Facial Dermatoses / chemically induced*
  • Facial Dermatoses / pathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Melanosis / chemically induced*
  • Melanosis / pathology
  • Patch Tests

Substances

  • Cosmetics