Did you know that any ingredient-even something innocuous like chamomile or water-can cause an irritation or allergy to someone?
Yep, even natural ingredients.I mean, there are people out there who are allergic to water. And what’s more natural and safe than water?!
Why am I telling you all this? You don’t want to slather a cream all over your face just to see it turn red, and feel it itching like mad.
That’s why brands always recommend you perform a patch test, first. It’s there, written on the label. But we all ignore it, thinking we don’t need it.
Patch tests can be done for any new skin care product you’d like to use. Creams, lotions, facial products, hair dyes, oils and serums, shampoos and conditioners, moisturizers, toners and eye cream can all be tested for skin allergy. Here’s how:
What is a patch test?
A patch test is a way to determine if a product will cause a negative reaction on your skin. It is usually done on a small area, like the wrist. That way, if an irritation or allergy occurs, the damage is limited and easy to treat. At the very least, it’s easy to cover up with a top or bangles.
Why should you do a patch test?
Because you never know what you could be allergic to.
Truth bomb: you can become allergic to anything at any time.
It’s not a joke or an exaggeration. You can literally use a cream with calendula for 10 year straight, and after 10 years and 1 day, develop an allergy to calendula.
It’s not as rare as you’d like to think. In the past few years that natural skincare has seen a revival, more and more people are complaining their skin is becoming more and more sensitive.
Essentials oils are notorious for causing allergies… But in case you think I’m picking on natural skincare, synthetic ingredients can pull the same trick, too.
Don’t wait until you develop a rash on your face. Do a patch test first.
Who should do a patch test?
Everyone should do a patch test, period.
But, it’s particularly important for people with sensitive skin, rosacea, acne, eczema, etc… If your skin is prone to sensitivities and irritations, NEVER put a product on your face without doing a patch test first. It’s just asking for trouble.
How to do a patch test?
Doing a patch test is super easy:
- Choose a small area like inside the wrist that’ll act as guinea pig.
- Apply a small amount of product to the area and wait for 24 hours.
- During this time, keep checking for signs of negative reactions, such as swelling, redness, itching, or burning.
- Is something off? If you’re developing any of the symptoms above, wash the area off with water IMMEDIATELY.Nothing’s happening? Go on, use it on your face (or body). It’s safe.
A patch test may be a nuisance, but it can also save you from a lot of pain. Don’t skip it!
