Sensitive skin · 4 min read
How to patch test a new body-care product
By the Belurae editorial team · Updated
The short answer
A patch test means using a small amount of a new product on a small area first, then waiting 24 hours to see how your skin responds. For a rinse-off product like a hair removal mousse, apply and remove it exactly as directed on a coin-sized area, then check for redness, itching, burning or swelling over the next day.
Why patch test at all?
Labels like “hypoallergenic” or “for sensitive skin” are helpful signals, but they can't promise that a product suits everyone. A patch test is a small, low-risk way to find out how your own skin responds before you use a product on a large area.
It's especially worth doing for hair removal products, fragranced products, and anything you plan to use on sensitive areas.
How to do it
- Choose a small, discreet patch of the kind of skin you plan to treat — for a body product, the inner forearm or a small area on the lower leg works well.
- Make sure the skin is clean, dry and unbroken.
- Use the product exactly as directed, just on a coin-sized area. For a hair removal mousse, that means applying it, keeping to the time on the pack, removing it and rinsing.
- Leave the area alone for 24 hours. Don't apply other new products there.
- Check the area a few times during the day and the next morning.
Reading the result
No change after 24 hours is a good sign that you can go ahead and use the product as directed. Redness, itching, burning, swelling, bumps or rash are signs to stop — don't use the product.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Always follow the directions on your product's pack, and speak to a doctor or pharmacist about any skin concern.