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Carrier Oil Sensitivity

Meaning

Carrier oil sensitivity refers to an adverse immune or inflammatory reaction of the skin or subcutaneous tissue to the inert, fatty vehicle used to dissolve and deliver a medication, particularly in compounded topical or injectable hormone preparations. This reaction is not to the active hormone itself but to the excipient base, often presenting as localized irritation, redness, or allergic contact dermatitis. Clinicians must differentiate this sensitivity from systemic side effects of the active pharmaceutical ingredient. Careful selection of the carrier oil is a necessary consideration in personalized hormonal therapy.