Colophony

Where is Colophony found?

Colophony comes from the sap of coniferous trees such as pines, junipers, firs, and cedars. Colophony (or rosin) is found in personal care and beauty products, topical medications, surface coatings, lubricants, adhesives and sealants, as well as the rosin for string instruments and dancers’ shoes. Another potential source of exposure to colophony is diapers and feminine hygiene products. Colophony derivatives are also found in shoe adhesives, particularly as a tackifier in the rubber cements that are used for sole attachment or for attaching layers below the insole.

How can you avoid contact with Colophony?

Avoid products that list any of the following names in the ingredients:

• Colophony
• Abietic alcohol
• Abietyl alcohol
• Methyl abietate alcohol
• Disproportionated rosin
• Colophonium
• Rosin gum
• Rosin
• Wood or pine rosin
• Tall oil
• Abietic acid

What are some products that may contain Colophony?

A clinician's point of view.

Additional resources and links for Colophony.

To submit resources or links, please fill out the submission form at the top of this page.

For additional information about products that might contain Colophony, visit the Consumer Product Information Database. These lists are brief and provide just a few examples. They are not comprehensive. Product formulations also change frequently. Read product labels carefully and talk to your doctor if you have any questions. These are general guidelines. Talk to your doctor for more specific instructions.

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