Allergy Awareness

April 2024

It is important that each individual diligently reviews all ingredients listed on our website, as well as those presented on any packaging, labels, or accompanying leaflets, to mitigate the potential risk of allergic or adverse reactions.

Beyond mere hay fever, various sources including foods, medications, and cosmetic formulations can provoke allergic responses in susceptible individuals. Notably, certain individuals may even exhibit sensitivity to commonplace items such as toothpicks. At Peritip, we prioritise the exclusion of ingredients deemed incompatible with daily well-being, although it is acknowledged that certain natural constituents, such as mint, may provoke reactions in select individuals.

Recognising Allergic Symptoms

Allergic reactions manifest when the immune system reacts excessively to otherwise innocuous substances. Consequently, exposure to pollen may trigger nasal congestion, while ingestion of peanuts could elicit hives. Notably, cheilitis, characterised by inflammation of the lips, represents the primary manifestation of toothpicks allergy, often presenting as peri-oral dermatitis and parched, fissured lips. While oral symptoms are infrequent, any sensations of pruritus or swelling within the oral cavity warrant immediate consultation with a dental or medical professional, or a contact to emergency services.

Identifying Potential Allergens in Natural Products

While our commitment to utilising natural ingredients is steadfast, it is acknowledged that rare instances of adverse reactions may arise from the following constituents:

- Flavourings: Such as spearmint and peppermint.
- Essential oils: Including limonene and menthol oil.
- Humectants: Such as glycerine derived from vegetable sources.
- Glycolipids: Comprising carbohydrate-based compounds.
- Sweeteners: Such as xylitol and stevia.
- Probiotics: Such as Lactobacillus strains.
- Other components: Including calcium carbonate, cellulose gum, and hydroxyapatite, which may elicit allergic responses in uncommon cases.

Managing Allergic Reactions

Should symptoms indicative of a toothpick allergy, such as swollen or fissured lips, or perioral rash, arise, prompt discontinuation of the implicated product is recommended. Subsequently, transitioning to an alternative formulation, different brand, is advisable to assess symptom resolution.

Persistent symptoms necessitate consultation with a dental or medical practitioner, who may facilitate referral to an allergist for comprehensive evaluation. Identification of the offending agent enables informed avoidance strategies, potentially extending beyond toothpicks / dental products to encompass other personal care products. Collaboration with dental professionals ensures tailored oral hygiene recommendations, optimising both oral health outcomes and allergy management.