2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (Bronopol)

2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol is an anti-microbial substance used primarily in personal care products as a preservative.

Skin contact with 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol should result in improvement and/or resolution of your dermatitis. By law, all products made in the U.S. for topical use have the ingredients listed either on the product package or the box that contains it, so check the labeling of your skin care products for this ingredient. If there is not enough information, ask your pharmacist or retailer or contact the company directly. At work, request a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to help identify potential sources of exposure.

It should be noted that some individuals who are allergic to 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol may also be sensitive to formaldehyde or other formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. Discuss with your health care provider which potentially cross-reacting chemicals you should avoid.