allergen of the year allergen of the year allergen of the year is an annual award voted upon by the american contact dermatitis society. this is "designed to draw attention to allergens that are very common, under-recognized, merit more attention because they are causing significant allergic contact dermatitis or are no longer causing significant relevant disease (as in thimerosal)". awards 2023 - lanolin 2022 – aluminum 2021 – acetophenone azine 2020 – isobornyl acrylate 2019 – parabens (non) allergen 2018 – propylene glycol 2017 – alkyl glucoside 2016 – cobalt 2015 – formaldehyde 2014 – benzophenones 2013 – methylisothiazolinone - this chemical is used as a preservative in many cosmetics, lotions, and makeup removers; some of its side effects include flaky or scaly skin, breakouts, redness or itchiness, and moderate to severe swelling in the eye area. 2012 – acrylate 2011 – dimethyl fumarate - dimethyl fumarate is the chemical associated with 'poisoned chairs' and 'toxic sandals'. 2010 – neomycin (antibiotic) 2009 – mixed dialkyl thiourea - neoprene rubber is a common source. 2008 – nickel 2007 – fragrance 2006 – p-phenylenediamine - ppd is the hair dye chemical that is used to augment black henna tattoos. it has been shown to cause severe blistering and scarring, and its topical use is banned in some countries. 2005 – corticosteroids 2004 – cocamidopropyl betaine 2003 – bacitracin 2002 – thimerosal 2001 – gold 2000 – disperse blue dyes