2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1, 3-diol (Bronopol)

This patient information on Bronopol is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida. This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

The results from your patch testing showed a positive reaction (contact allergy) to Bronopol. Your immune system reacts with its defense mechanisms with each exposure of this Bronopol to your skin. It is unknown why certain individuals develop allergic sensitivities. In some it may take repeat exposures over long periods of time before an allergy develops. Once you have become sensitized (allergic) your immune system always “remembers” and you will be Bronopol sensitive. If you currently have eczema this chemical may be the cause but other factors may play a role as well. The information below will help you avoid this allergen.

This chemical is used as a preservative in many skin care products. This chemical can be a problem for some formaldehyde sensitive individuals. There are more than 300 cosmetic formulations containing Bronopol.

Where is chemical found?

Blushers
Cleansing lotions
Cleansing preparations
Cooling fluids
Creams
Eyebrow pencils
Formaldehyde releaser
Foundations
Hair conditioners
Hair dressings
Humidifiers
Mascara
Moisturizers
Paints
Shampoos
Textiles
Washing detergents

Hints on avoiding chemical:

Choose products listed only on your personalized Contact Allergen Database which has been provided to you. Products listed on your contact allergen resource database will be free of 2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (Bronopol) and safe to use.

Please be aware that if your spouse or significant other uses topical skin care products that contain this chemical skin-to-skin transfer may occur to you.

It may take 2 or 3 weeks of avoiding exposure before improvement of your eruption begins.

Other names you may see this chemical listed as:

1,3-Propanediol-2-Bromo-2-Nitro
2-Bromo-2-nitro-1,3-propanediol
2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol
b-Bromo-b-nitrotrimethyleneglycol
Bronopol
Bronosol
Lexgard bronopol
Onyxide 500

Possible Occupational Exposures:

Nurses
Machine operators
Hairdressers’ cosmetologists