Latex — Allergy Risk & Safety Profile
INCI: NATURAL RUBBER LATEX
Also known as: Natural Rubber, Hevea Brasiliensis
Key Facts
- Category
- other
- Risk Level
- high
- Common Allergen
- Yes
- Found In
- cosmetic sponges, eyelash adhesive
Is Latex safe in cosmetics?
Latex is rated high risk in cosmetic products. It is a known allergen that can cause contact dermatitis in sensitized individuals. Can cause both Type I (immediate, potentially anaphylactic) and Type IV (delayed) reactions. Commonly found in cosmetic sponges, eyelash adhesive.
What is Latex?
Natural rubber allergen. Can cause immediate (Type I) allergic reactions.
Allergy & Safety Information
Latex is classified as a high-risk ingredient. It is a known cause of allergic contact dermatitis. Individuals with sensitive skin or a history of contact allergies should avoid products containing this ingredient. A patch test is recommended before first use of any product containing Latex.
This ingredient is classified as high risk from an allergenicity perspective. It is a recognised cause of allergic contact dermatitis with a relatively high sensitisation rate in patch-tested populations. People with a history of skin reactions to cosmetics, or with conditions such as eczema or sensitive skin, should exercise particular caution.
How to Identify Latex in Products
Cosmetic ingredients are listed by their INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) name in descending order of concentration. To check whether a product contains Latex, scan the ingredient list for its INCI name exactly as it appears above. Ingredients present at 1% or less may appear in any order after the 1% threshold.
Product types to prioritise checking: Cosmetic sponges, Eyelash adhesive. These product categories are the most common sources of Latex exposure based on formulation data.
Not sure if your products contain Latex? Paste the ingredient list into the free ingredient checker to scan for Latex and other allergens automatically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Latex safe for sensitive skin?
Latex is a known allergen and is generally not recommended for sensitive skin. Consider patch testing before use.
What products contain Latex?
Latex is commonly found in cosmetic sponges, eyelash adhesive.
What does Latex do in cosmetics?
Latex functions as a other in formulations. Can cause both Type I (immediate, potentially anaphylactic) and Type IV (delayed) reactions.
Related Guides
Top 10 Cosmetic Allergens
Is Latex on the list? See the full clinical ranking.
How to Read Ingredient Labels
Decode INCI names and find hidden allergens in your products.
Find Your Skin Allergy Trigger
Step-by-step elimination method to identify your trigger.
Contact Dermatitis Guide
Symptoms, causes, patch testing, and treatment options.
Is Latex causing YOUR skin reactions?
SkinDetekt tracks your products and reactions to find your personal triggers. Download the app to find out.
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