Mint condition? A survey of allergenic ingredients in UK toothpastes

Toothpastes may induce cheilitis, intraoral lichenoid changes and immediate hypersensitivity reactions. There is little published information documenting the range of allergens in toothpastes. In 2024, a survey was conducted of 291 toothpastes sold by five of the UK's largest cosmetics suppliers. Labelling quality and ingredients were recorded. Two (0.7%) had no ingredients list. Of the remaining 289 (99.3%), the mean number of ingredients was 16.6. 286 (99%) contained fragrance, often labelled non-specifically as 'aroma'. Limonene was in 159 (55%), and menthol-related compounds in 105 (36.3%). The most frequent preservatives were sodium benzoate/benzoic acid (36;12.5%/11;3.8%). Polyaminopropyl biguanide, banned in cosmetics in 2015, was declared in 3 (1%). Sodium lauryl sulphate was present in 159 (55%). Stannous (tin) fluoride, associated with allergic cheilitis, was present in 21 (7.3%). Dermatologists should consider exposure to toothpaste allergens when managing patients with cheilitis, oral mucosal symptoms, or immediate systemic symptoms associated with toothbrushing.