Salicylate Allergy And Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia: A Case Report With Stabilization Of The Complaints After Allergen Avoidance

November 2025 in “ Contact Dermatitis ”

Sylvie M. Franken, Thomas Rustemeyer

frontal fibrosing alopecia salicylate allergy benzyl salicylate ethylhexyl salicylate homosalate SPF-containing products

TLDR Avoiding salicylates improved skin issues and stabilized hair loss in a woman with frontal fibrosing alopecia.

A 34-year-old woman with frontal fibrosing alopecia (FFA) experienced facial reactions to SPF-containing products, which were linked to salicylate allergy through patch testing. Positive reactions were found for benzyl salicylate, ethylhexyl salicylate, and homosalate. After avoiding these allergens, her skin complaints improved, and the FFA stabilized, though hair loss was irreversible. This case suggests a potential link between salicylate sensitization and FFA, warranting further investigation.

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