Is your perfume turning your neck dark? Experts explain the science behind it

Noticing patches all over your neck? Think twice before spritzing your perfume! Experts say hitting the neck can lead to discolouration. So the next time you find yourself scratching the column of your throat, take a pause and ditch the deodorant.

Indianexpress.com talks to dermatologists who explain the science behind this phenomenon.

What causes discolouration?

“While spraying perfume on the neck does not always cause pigmentary changes, in a few individuals, certain components of perfumes such as bergamot oil, lemon oil, and grapefruit oil contain bergapten and furocoumarins that are photo sensitisers. If applied on the skin and exposed to sunlight, they can cause Phytophotodermatitis,” explained Dr Andrea Rachel, consulting dermatologist at DermaZeal Clinic, Bangalore.

This irritates the skin and can heal with a dark discolouration known as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, she said.

According to her, other factors such as repeated exposure to some of the components of perfume such as cinnamates and fragrance mix can sensitise the individual’s immune system, which results in redness, rashes, and itching as part of allergic contact dermatitis.

Pigmentary contact dermatitis such as “Riel’s Melanosis” is characterised by brownish to black patches on the skin, which is normally caused by cosmetics and perfumes, she added.

“Some components in perfumes like alcohol and synthetic fragrances, can irritate the skin or cause allergic reactions. Chronic irritation or inflammation can trigger melanocytes to produce more melanin, resulting in darker patches.
They can also trigger autoimmune skin diseases like lichen planus pigmentosus,” shared Dr Chinjitha T Davis, consultant dermatologist, Manipal Hospital Goa.

Pigmentary contact dermatitis such as “Riel’s Melanosis” is characterised by brownish to black patches on the skin, which is normally caused by cosmetics and perfumes (Source: Freepik)

How to prevent

Dr Rachel suggested spraying perfumes and deodorants over clothes rather than on bare skin. She encouraged avoiding sun exposure along with applying sunscreen which can protect the skin from harmful UV rays. She also suggested using cosmetic products with fragrances and hence “hypoallergenic” and “fragrance-free” products are best to use.

“Natural deodorants and perfumes may reduce the risk of irritation and photosensitivity as they often lack harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances. However, it’s important to ensure these natural products do not contain any allergens or photosensitizing agents,” said Davis.

Both doctors emphasised patch testing before applying these perfumes on bare skin.

To treat discolouration, Dr Rachel advised pausing the application of the perfume causing contact dermatitis, following which the ones in the active state are treated. Skin lightening creams are prescribed to lighten post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.

Treatment

“For those experiencing atopic dermatitis or eczema, the skin barrier is already impaired. The application of perfumes or even cosmetics with fragrances can lead to contact dermatitis. It is best to stick to completely fragrance-free products,” Rachel advised.

Davis prescribed creams containing ingredients like kojic acid, alpha arbutin, and niacinamide to help lighten hyperpigmented areas. She warned against applying steroid cream or hydroquinone-containing creams without medical advice as it can lead to local side effects.

“Regular careful exfoliation with mild alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs)  can help remove pigmented skin cells if there is only pigmentation left. However, if inflammation is active, exfoliation can worsen it. Laser treatments such as Q-switched lasers or fractional lasers besides using chemical peels can effectively reduce pigmentation,” she added.

Disclaimer: The copyright of this article belongs to the original author. Reposting this article is solely for the purpose of information dissemination and does not constitute any investment advice. If there is any infringement, please contact us immediately. We will make corrections or deletions as necessary. Thank you.