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Can Gluten Be Absorbed Through The Skin?

By Nancy Lapid, About.com

Updated June 25, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Question: Can Gluten Be Absorbed Through The Skin?
Answer: No. Gluten molecules are too large to be absorbed through the skin. If you are having skin reactions to cosmetics or other products that contain gluten, it’s possible that you are having an allergic reaction to one or more of the product’s ingredients. Your doctor or a dermatologist can help you identify the cause.

Special issues in small children: Even though gluten can’t be absorbed through the skin, it’s best to avoid skin care products (or shampoos) that contain gluten if they are to be applied on a small child who might put the treated skin area or hair into his or her mouth.

Sources:

Children’s Hospital Boston

Mayo Clinic

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