Cobalt
What is it?
Cobalt chloride can be present in almost any metallic object. It is also present in hair dyes and cosmetics. Cobalt sulfate is primarily used in the preparation of pigments.
How can I avoid it?
Patients allergic to cobalt should decrease their contact with the items listed, particularly jewelry. Substitutes include stainless steel, and plastic earrings, necklaces, etc. Cobalt is frequently combined with nickel, chromium, and/or other metals.
Allergic patients should check their cosmetics and hair dyes for the presence of cobalt by reading the labels. Many substitutes are available.
If you are engaged in an occupation or hobby that entails contact with the preceding list of products you should discuss this with your physician.
Uses:
- Additive in animal feeds
- Additive in fertilizer
- Alloys
- Antiperspirants
- Auto exhaust controls
- Batteries
- Cement
- Cosmetics (particularly eyeshadow)
- Costume jewelry
- Dental appliances
- Dyes
- Electroplating
- Enamels
- Hair dyes
- Joint replacements
- Lacquers
- Lubricating oils
- Machinery parts
- Manufacture of vitamin B12
- Metal alloys
- Paints
- Permanent ink for porcelain
- Pigments in pottery, glass, crayons, ceramics
- Polyester resins
- Printing inks
- Rubber tire industry
- Snaps, zippers, buttons, buckles
- Tattoos
- Tools, utensils, instruments
- Welding rods
- Wood stains
Other names for Cobalt Chloride:
- Cobalt chloride
- Cobalt blue
- Caltous
- Cobalt (II) chloride hexahydrate
- Cobalt (II) sulfate
Potential co-reactive/cross-reactive substances:
- Chromate
- Nickel
- Potassium dichromate
Spot Test for Cobalt
The Cobalt Spot Test will detect the presence of cobalt in metal objects. We hope that the Cobalt Spot Test will be of benefit to you in order to avoid exposure to cobalt thereby minimizing contact dermatitis caused by nickel releasing objects.
To order a test kit:
Smart Practice Dermatology/Allergy
3400 East McDowell Road
Phoenix, AZ 85008-7899
www.allerderm.com
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 800-878-3837
Fax: 800-926-4568
Test kit is called: reveal & conceal, Cobalt Spot Test (part number AL8002)
Test Procedure
Test for cobalt in metal objects with these easy-to-use swabs.
- Detection solution and applicator all in one
- Revolutionary cotton tip swabs
- Simply “snap” to open
- Convenient-carry them in your purse, wallet or briefcase
- Safe and effective
- Easily disposable
- Use at work, home or while shopping for jewelry, tools, utensils etc
- Does not harm objects tested or coated
- Detects cobalt in seconds
