Labdanum, a resin obtained from the Cistus ladanifer shrub, has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in the Mediterranean region. Historically, it has been applied topically for a variety of skin conditions, including wounds, ulcers, and inflammatory skin disorders such as dermatitis. The traditional use is based on its perceived antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties, but these claims are largely anecdotal and based on ethnobotanical records rather than rigorous scientific study.

Current scientific evidence supporting the use of labdanum for dermatitis is minimal. Some laboratory studies have indicated that extracts from Cistus ladanifer possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which could theoretically be beneficial in managing skin inflammation. However, there are no robust clinical trials or systematic reviews specifically evaluating the efficacy of labdanum resin or its essential oil in the treatment of dermatitis in humans. In summary, while labdanum has a traditional reputation for supporting skin health, scientific validation for its use in dermatitis is lacking, and its effectiveness remains unproven beyond historical and anecdotal accounts.