Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Propolis

Walgrave, Susan E.
Warshaw, Erin M.
Glesne, Lynn A.

From the University of Minnesota, School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN; Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN; and Hennepin Faculty Associates, Hennepin County Medical Center, Minneapolis, MN.

Reprints not available.

Dermatitis 16(4):p 209-215, December 2005.

Propolis is commonly used in cosmetic and medicinal preparations because of its antiseptic, antiinflammatory, and anesthetic properties. Its therapeutic qualities have been well documented. However, 1.2 to 6.6% of patients who are patch-tested for dermatitis are sensitive to propolis. The main allergens are 3-methyl-2-butenyl caffeate and phenylethyl caffeate. Benzyl salicylate and benzyl cinnamate are less frequent sensitizers. Propolis is found in a number of “natural” products, including lip balms, cosmetics, lotions and ointments, shampoos, conditioners, and toothpastes. Dermatologists should consider patch testing with propolis in users of such remedies.