Skin & hair · 5 min
Patch test anything new
Before a new cream, soap, hair dye or detergent goes all over, try a little on a small patch and wait. A day or two can save a week of sore skin.
New products are one of the commonest reasons for a sudden rash or sore skin. Many people put a new cream or soap straight onto their face or whole body. A small test first lets your skin give its answer before it matters.
The steps
Four small steps,in your own time.
When you buy a new skin product, hair dye, soap or detergent, read the label for any patch test instructions and follow them; hair dyes usually have specific ones.
For a skin product, put a small amount on a coin-sized patch of skin on the inside of your forearm or behind your ear.
Leave it, without washing it off, for 24 to 48 hours unless the product says otherwise. Do not try anything else new at the same time.
If the skin stays calm, use the product as directed. If it turns red, itchy, swollen or blistered, wash it off and do not use it.
The reason
Why it helps
Some people react to fragrances, preservatives or dyes, and the reaction can be much worse over a large area or on the face. Testing one product at a time means that if something goes wrong, you know what caused it. Keeping a note of products that have irritated you helps next time you shop.
A gentle variation
If you react easily, choose products labelled fragrance-free, and try one new product a month at most. Keep a short list on your phone of ingredients or products that have caused trouble before.
WE · TRIBE
Try itwith someone.
If you buy toiletries for someone you care for, patch test new ones on them too, with their agreement, and keep their list of products that suit them. Older and very young skin can be more sensitive.
Try it today
Next time you open a new skin or hair product, put a little on a small patch on the inside of your forearm and wait 48 hours before using it more widely.
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