Did you know that wheat can be found in some personal hygiene products? Wheat makes a good moisturizer and exfoliator because it contains high amounts of an antioxidant called ferulic acid. Gluten may be used as an emulsifier or stabilizer to create creamy textures in lotions and creams. But If you have celiac disease, worry not! You can use these products.
Research has shown that people with celiac disease cannot get sick just from touching gluten. This includes those with dermatitis herpetiformis, or “gluten rash.” Scientists agree that the gluten protein is too large to be absorbed through the skin. In order to sicken someone with celiac disease, gluten must be ingested or otherwise get into the bloodstream (say, through a large open wound).
So unless you are consuming lotions or shampoos, those with celiac disease should be safe to use wheat-containing hygiene products.
Products which may be a cause for concern are those that go on, around, or in the mouth, such as toothpaste and lip products. There may even be concerns around certain products such as hand soaps, which may leave gluten on the hands that can then be ingested when eating foods with hands.
If you do react to hygiene products like lotion or makeup, you may have a separate sensitivity, such as allergic contact dermatitis or a fragrance sensitivity. An allergist may be able to help figure out what you’re reacting to and help you avoid it.
For more information on using various hygiene products, please click through the sections below!
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