Benzoic Acid

Benzoic acid is used in the preservation of foods, fats, and fruit; as an antibacterial in mouthwashes; and as an antifungal agent in pharmaceutical preparations and cosmetics.

Skin contact with benzoic acid is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing benzoic acid should result in improvement and/or the 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 skincare products for this ingredient. If there is not enough information, ask your pharmacist or contact the company directly. At work, request a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to help identify potential sources of exposure.

Direct contact with foods or products containing benzoic acid may cause symptoms including burning, irritation, and redness. Direct contact may occur on the skin, lips, or mouth. Although it is rare, it is possible that ingestion of this substance could cause generalized symptoms such as itching or redness of the skin.