Chromium, or chrome, is bound in metal alloys used, for example, in the production of stainless steel and in the raw material used in the production of cement and the tanning of leathers.
Chrome is able to penetrate the skin and cause the immune system to create an allergic reaction.
Chrome-tanned leather work gloves and shoes are also a cause of occupation-related chrome allergy. There are also a number of other industries where the workers are exposed to chrome, for example, the graphics industry, tanneries, laboratories, the machine and metal industries and as a part of timber treatment.
In Denmark, leather goods – shoes, gloves, belts, straps - are the most frequent cause of chrome allergy, because they release chrome. Chrome is used in the tanning process and it can be given off by the finished product.
Stainless steel and other metal alloys may give off chrome, but in such small amounts that chrome allergy stemming from metal alloys is mostly restricted to industrial workers, such as those working in the steel industry.
Chrome is a natural ingredient in cement. Chrome eczema has been widespread among bricklayers and others in the building trade before legislation in 1983 restricted the use of chrome. Since then there have been few cases of chrome allergy in Denmark.
Many consumer products, such as cosmetics and cleaning agents, have been tested for chrome. In general, the amount of chrome is low in products on the European market, and these products are generally not considered to be able to cause chrome allergy.
In a study from 2000, chrome was found in some eye shadows, but it is uncertain if this plays a role in provoking eczema.
Chrome may also be an ingredient in colorants used permanent tattoo ink.
