Why Must You Never Skip Patch Testing a New Skincare Product

Just bought home a new skincare product and can’t wait to slather it on your skin? Pause right there and hear us out! It is important that you test any skincare product that you are using for the first time. This will help you understand if you are allergic to any of the ingredients, fragrances, preservatives or chemicals used in the skincare product.

Patch test saves you from the hassle of visiting your dermatologist after trying out a new skincare product only to realise that it doesn’t suit your skin. Want to know more about patch testing? In this article, we will cover all the key points that you must know when it comes to patch testing.

Importance of patch testing

Every person is different. So, a skincare product might work for your friend, it might cause you allergic reactions. The best way to know whether your skin is compatible with a certain skincare product is to test out the product in a small area on your skin and wait to see how your body reacts to it.

Performing a patch test before trying out a new skincare product will save you from potential allergic reactions like swelling, redness and skin irritation.

How to conduct a patch test?

Conducting a patch test for the first time? We have got you covered. Here is a step-by-step instruction on how to do a patch test correctly.

1. Apply the new product on the inside of your arm or elbow.
2. Make sure that you apply the product generously just like you would when you would be using it regularly.
3. Leave the product for as long as advised. If it is a cleanser, you can wash it in about 5 minutes. Similarly, if it is a sunscreen or moisturiser, leave it for 24 hours at least to know the final verdict.
4. Remember that sometimes your skin takes longer to react to a new skincare ingredient. So, carry out multiple patch tests before you introduce a new product to your daily skincare regime.

How long should one observe the patch test results?

This depends from person to person. If you have acne-prone skin, then your skin might break out almost immediately if a certain new ingredient is not working out for your skin. Typically, it is recommended that you wait for at least 24-72 hours to check the final result.

What are you looking for after you do a patch test for skin?

If you are allergic to a new skincare product, then your skin might turn red or pink. If the redness vanishes in a couple of hours or a day or two, then you might have a mild allergy to the new skincare product.

However, if your skin is itchy, red and swollen, then you must immediately wash off the product and avoid using the new skincare product as it is not suitable for your skin.

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FAQs:

What to do if you experience an allergic reaction after doing a patch test?

If it is a mild reaction, you can simply try to seek relief with petroleum jelly or cold compress. However, if it is a severe allergy reaction, it is best to consult your dermatologist immediately.

What are some of the symptoms to look out for while doing a patch test for allergies?

Some common skin allergy symptoms include rash, itching, burning sensation, blistering and swelling.

How to choose a skin care product to avoid any allergic reaction?

Though you cannot completely control falling prey to an allergic reaction while using a new skincare product, you can still reduce your chances of developing an allergic reaction by carefully reading the label of the skincare products. Choose products that mention words like ‘clean’, ‘unscented’ and ‘organic’.

Is it okay to do patch tests for multiple products at once?

No, you must always conduct patch tests for a single product at a time to ensure that you get an accurate result of how a specific product works on your skin.