Patch Test Skincare – a Deep Dive

Skincare Patch Testing Explained

Patch testing is a procedure that can help identify whether certain ingredients can lead to skin irritation. Many cosmetic items in the world contain chemicals that might cause allergic reactions, which is why it is so important to do proper testing.

These tests are usually performed in a home environment where the product will be used so that the tester can determine the results in the same environment. The process involves applying the product to the skin in small amounts to see if it causes a reaction.

While this process might sound similar to allergy tests, it differs in purpose and time to receive information. An allergy test is usually done to find the culprit that causes symptoms in a specific person. Allergy tests also tend to have a fairly quick turnaround time for showing results.

Patch tests, on the other hand, are done to determine whether the person would have any adverse reactions to a specific product – or any of its ingredients. A patch test can also take days to develop a reaction, which leads us to our next point of discussion.

How Long Should You Patch Test Skin Care

Determining the length of time a patch test should remain on the skin starts with understanding the process. This is how we do a patch test:

• Apply the product in a small amount to a quarter-sized area of the skin.
  Ensure the chosen area won’t be accidentally cleaned off, as the product should remain on the skin.
• The product should remain on the skin for as long as the product would ordinarily remain in use.
• If the product is something that would normally be washed off immediately, it should remain on the skin for at least five minutes.
• Repeat this test for between a week and ten days.
• If you experience any reaction to the product, wash it off immediately and discontinue the test.

Testing Assistance From Our LabTeam

Feel free to explore some of our services if you plan to create a cosmetic product and need assistance with the development or testing – or if you want to know more about patch testing.