A patch test or skin allergy test is helpful in determining whether a new skincare product works well with your skin or not. It’s a simple test that helps you check for a skin allergy. You can do a simple and effective patch test at home.
Patch tests can be done for any new skincare product you’d like to use. Creams, lotions, facial products, hair dyes, oils and serums, shampoos and conditioners, moisturizers, toners, and eye creams can all be tested for skin allergy.
A patch test should be done before using any herbal oil or herb on the skin. Some people can be sensitive to herbal products and an allergic reaction can occur. So it’s wise to do a patch test.
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People who have very sensitive skin or a past history of allergic skin reaction should do this patch test before trying any new skincare product or before switching from one brand to other.
In the beauty industry, one size does not fit all.
With a patch test, you may avoid an allergic reaction. Highly sensitive people and people having a history of allergic reaction can especially benefit by taking this cautionary step.
A patch test is in no way painful so do not be afraid to perform this test at home.
An allergic reaction commonly occurs with products having synthetic dyes and fragrances, parabens, preservatives, sulfates and high concentrations of acids.
In addition, cosmetics with herbal ingredients or essential oils may also cause allergies in susceptible individuals. In comparison to synthetic ingredients though, the incidence could be much less.
The bottom line is, that herbal cosmetics need to be patch-tested to rule out individual sensitivities.
If a product contains glycolic acid, lactic acid, or salicylic acid, then there are chances of mild redness but it should subside within 10-15 minutes. A moisturizer can be used to lessen the redness.
Do not confuse mild redness with an allergic reaction. Still, if there is irritation, discontinue use and consult your health care provider.
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People with oily skin and acne-prone skin can experience breakouts with products like coconut oil, coconut butter, cocoa butter and isopropyl palmitate.
This simple, at-home patch test should not be confused with patch tests that are done at laboratories. Patch tests done at laboratories or skin clinics are scientific methods of investigation.
In a laboratory patch test, various patches which contain different allergens are applied onto the skin on the back or arm for 48 hours or more. A physician is present or consulted with to see if you are allergic to any potential allergens. Those undergoing a laboratory patch test are under constant supervision.
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Here are the steps to do a patch test at home and other useful information related to patch tests.
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You should be able to differentiate between an irritant reaction and an allergic reaction.
An irritant reaction is an instant reaction that occurs in some people. This might be mild itching, mild redness, or a mild stinging sensation after the use of a new product for the first time.
An irritant reaction is very mild and goes away within ten minutes. This reaction does not occur when the product is used again. Irritant reactions do not involve the immune system as an allergic reaction does. It can however exacerbate skin conditions like eczema.
In the case of respiratory symptoms or anaphylactic shock after a patch test, seek medical help immediately. This however is very rare.
People with a past history of anaphylactic shock are prone to experiencing it again. So if you have a past history of anaphylactic shock then it is advisable to perform a patch test only after discussing with your physician.
In general, a patch test is left on the body for 24 hours. However, if you are prone to skin allergies and have very sensitive skin then you can leave it on for 48 hours to see any prolonged reaction. You can also apply the same product to the same location on the skin for five to seven days to see if you experience a delayed reaction.
If you are not sure about trying a new product for facial skin, then perform a patch test for allergy first. If it is successful and there is no reaction, you can apply it to areas near the face like the side of the neck or back of the ear for three to five days to notice any adverse reaction.
If you notice a pigmentation reaction like lightening or darkening of the skin after the patch test, then consult your skin care specialist or health care provider.
If you are taking medicine for allergy (anti-histamines) or using any steroidal cream then the test results will not be accurate.
Some other medicines which can interfere with the results of a patch test are anti-inflammatory medications, some anti-depressants and some antacids. So if you are using any of these, it is best to consult your physician before doing a patch test at home.
If you have some sort of skin infection or any other skin-related issue like eczema or psoriasis then it is best to discuss with your skin care specialist first before performing a patch test.
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If you are performing a patch test to see if a product will make you break out, then follow these steps.
A break out means clogged pores or blemishes which usually can not be seen after only one use. Here’s what you can do.
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Smita Kumari
September 13, 2022
Skin allergy patch test sensitivity