132 JOURNAL OF THE SOCIETY OF COSMETIC CHEMISTS and yellow petrolatums. Analytical infor- mation is presented which provides the chemical differences for the different types of petrolatums and the components which may be responsible for petrolatum allergy. In this section, a discussion of the carci- nogenic activities of polyaromatic hydro- carbons is given which seems to be out of place and beyond the scope of the book. The last section, dealing with hypoal- lergenic preparations, proposes methods which can be used by the formulating chemist intending to minimize contact with highly allergic compounds. Em- phasis is given to the fact that total elim- ination of fragrances or other suspect for- mulation ingredients may not necessarily abolish the allergic potential of a formu- lation. In conclusion, the book is very specific and should not be considered as an intro- duction to the topic. It would seem to be rewarding to the experienced clinicJan treating many cases of allergic contact der- matitis associated with pharmaceutical and cosmetic products.--MATTHEW PALAZZOLO•Gillette Medical Evalu- ation Laboratories.