Carvone

L-Carvone is a chemical found in essential oils; most abundant in oils from spearmint, caraway, and dill. It is used as a scent, masking scent and flavoring in a number of cosmetic and oral hygiene products, as well as some foods.

Avoidance of L-Carvone is necessary to prevent recurrent allergic contact dermatitis. It may be difficult, since so many everyday products contain these substances. One should only use fragrance-free cosmetic, oral hygiene, and household products. “Unscented” products may contain low levels of L-Carvone to cover up an undesirable odor and also should be avoided. Products labeled as “hypoallergenic” do not assure that the product is truly free of fragrance.

Skin contact with L-Carvone is required for it to cause a rash. Discontinuation of exposure to products containing L-Carvone 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 no information ask your pharmacist or call the company directly. At work, request a Safety Data Sheet (SDS) to help identify potential sources of exposure.