We are often asked if our soap contains resin acid / colophony, as some people are allergic and develop eczema from using soap.
The answer is that our soap does NOT contain resin acid. We make our soap from rapeseed oil, and that does not contain resin acid. Soaps made from tall oil, however, can contain colophony. But since we don't use any tall oil in our products, there's no risk.
Colophony, also known as resin acid, is a natural resin extracted from coniferous trees, mainly pine. It is produced by distilling away volatile terpenes from tall oil, which leaves behind a hard, yellow or brownish substance. Colophony is used in a wide range of products, including glues, varnishes, cosmetics, soap, and medical plasters, as well as in industries such as paper and rubber production.
Uses
Colophony is versatile and used in:
- Violin rosin: To improve the bow's grip on the strings.
- Tape and glue: Colophony contributes to adhesive properties.
- Cosmetics and hygiene products: In some soaps, deodorants, and hair removal products.
- Medical products: Plasters and surgical bandages may contain colophony for its stickiness.
Health risks
The main health risk associated with colophony is its potential to cause contact allergy and skin irritation. When the skin is exposed to colophony, some people may develop hypersensitivity, leading to allergic reactions.
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Contact allergy: Colophony is a common cause of allergic contact dermatitis, meaning the skin becomes inflamed upon contact. Symptoms may include itching, redness, swelling, and blisters.
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Asthma and respiratory irritation: Inhaling colophony dust or fumes can irritate the respiratory system and in some cases cause asthma. This is especially relevant for workers in industries where colophony is used in large amounts.
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Skin irritation: In addition to allergic reactions, colophony can cause general skin irritation in people with sensitive skin, even without a full allergy.
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Sensitivity to other substances: People sensitive to colophony may also react to similar substances found in cosmetics and medical products, making it difficult to avoid exposure.
How to avoid exposure?
To reduce the risk of allergic reactions or irritation from colophony, it is important to:
- Avoid products containing colophony: Read the ingredient list on soap, cosmetics, and medical products carefully.
- Use allergy-friendly products: There are alternatives to colophony in some products labeled for sensitive skin.
- Protective equipment: Workers in industries handling colophony should wear protective gear like gloves and face masks to avoid direct contact and inhalation.
In summary, colophony can be a useful substance in many applications, but its use also involves certain health risks, especially for people prone to allergic reactions.
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Questions and Answers
1. Are colophony and resin acid the same thing?
Answer: Yes
2. Is colophony found in all soaps?
Answer: No, only those based on tall oil
3. Is colophony really in plasters?
Answer: Yes, many plasters contain colophony in the adhesive.
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