ACETOPHENONE AZINE
TYPE OF INGREDIENT
By-product in manufacturing
COMMONLY FOUND IN
Shin guards, footwear, protective sports equipment
What is Acetophenone Azine?
Acetophenone Azine is a by-product of the synthesis of ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), a foam which is used in manufacturing of shin guards, flip-flops and other types of footwear and sports equipment.1 It was first recognized as a contact allergen in the mid-2010s, when there were several case series of patients experiencing lower extremity contact dermatitis with negative patch tests.2,3 AA was named the 2021 Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society.4
Is Acetophenone Azine safe for all skin types and tones?
AA is generally safe for most skin types and tones, even among patients who frequently wear protective sports equipment. However, patients experiencing dermatitis localized to their lower extremities and/or body areas in close contact with sports equipment should be evaluated for AA allergy with a specialized patch test composed of AA in 0.1% petrolatum.2,4
What are the benefits of Acetophenone Azine?
The exact function of AA is not well-established. However, it has been theorized that AA is a catalyst in the polymerization of ethyl vinyl acetate, a foam which is used in the production of sports equipment.1 AA also has anti-helminthic and antimicrobial activity.1
Contraindications
There are no specific contraindications associated with AA. Patients experiencing contact allergy to AA should consult with a dermatologist. Options for treatment may include symptomatic topical treatment, application of barriers to reduce contact sensitization, discussion with the manufacturer about using products free of AA, or switching to alternative gear.2,4
REFERENCES
- 1. Raison-Peyron N, Bergendorff O, Bourrain JL, et al. Acetophenone azine: a new allergen responsible for severe contact dermatitis from shin pads. Contact Dermatitis. 2016;75:106-110.
- 2. Reeder M and Atwater, A. Cutis. 2021 May;107(05):238-240.
- 3. Besner Morin C, Stanciu M, Miedzybrodzki B, et al. Allergic contact dermatitis from acetophenone azine in a Canadian child. Contact Dermatitis. 2020;83:41-42.
- 4. Raison-Peyron N, Sasseville D. Acetophenone Azine. Dermatitis. 2021 Jan-Feb 01;32(1):5-9.
Product Name
Aamir Hussain, MD, MAPP
Author
Aamir Hussain, MD, is a dermatologist practicing in Northern Virginia. He is an internationally-recognized speaker, writer and educator on health policy, medical education and interfaith dialogue. He speaks five languages and enjoys teaching and working with diverse patient populations. Dr. Hussain has won multiple teaching awards from Georgetown University School of Medicine.
He has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals, authored several book chapters and written for prestigious media outlets, such as The New York Times. Dr. Hussain completed his medical degree and master’s degree in public policy at the University of Chicago, and his dermatology residency at Georgetown University.