Alerts

Allergic Reactions and Migration

Allergic reactions are a concern to all of us in PC. We rarely heard of them until early 2003 when reports of allergic reactions to a popular pigment line began. These allergic reactions were uncommonly severe and frequent and affected brow, eyeliner and lipcolor clients. The problem orange pigment has since been identified and eliminated from the manufacturer's pigments.

But many of us do not know how to tell the difference between an allergy to an aftercare product such as Bacitracin, a fever blister breakout, warts (yes, warts) and a true allergic reaction to pigment. What do we do and to whom do we turn in the event of a severe pigment allergic reaction? A team of doctors has evolved and is in place to help guide you and your clients.

Note: A problem within the first week is not a pigment allergic reaction usually. Do not create "false alarms" because your client has a problem. Send them to a doctor right away.

But first things first. Here are the signs of a true allergic reaction:

Submit a Colorwatch™ Form if you have pigment eyeliner MIGRATION or a suspected PIGMENT ALLERGIC reaction. This will help alert other professionals against using a potentially problem pigment.

Click here to download Colorwatch™ Form. Your privacy will be protected.

With a suspected pigment allergic reaction take the following steps:

a) See the client and get good pictures
b) Inform the manufacturer in writing or email. Send a copy of your email via Registered Mail to the manufacturer.
c) Send your client to a dermatologist immediately. (If you have done a spot test then check that area for reaction.)
d) Get a punch biopsy before any treatment begins. Why? Because local steroids, laser or overtattooing with salt water can affect the tissue. Doctors sometimes think they’re dealing with hypertrophic scarring in these cases.
e) Contact your insurance company. A lawsuit may follow a severe allergic reaction.
f) Legal advice may be needed. There are lawyers who can advise you.
g) A Colorwatch™ Report should be completed. See the Colorwatch™ Form inside. Complete and return it in the event of a suspected pigment allergic reaction.
h) Call 888/664-9990 for information. Ask for the new Academy Spot Test recommendations including pictures. Free.