PATCH TESTING BODY PRODUCTS

Choose your testing spot

Pick a discreet, easy-to-monitor area. The inside of your elbow or behind your knee are great—they mimic the thin, sensitive skin found in many body areas but are easy to cover up if needed. (Don't use these areas if you get eczema in these areas)

Never test on irritated skin

Irritated skin is irritable.  It will react to almost anything.  Wait until the area recovers before you test a new product. (think of water running over a papercut, or a hot shower on sunburnt skin.  These are examples of when your skin is irritated and irritable)

Apply a small amount

Use a tiny dab of the product—no need to slather. About a five-cent-coin size is plenty. If it’s a wash-off product (like a body scrub or wash), leave it on for the amount of time you’d normally use it, then rinse off. For leave-ons (like body lotion or oils), just let it sit.

Wait and watch (yes, patience!)

Don’t expect a reaction immediately—some sensitivities take time to show. Check the area at 24 and 48 hours. If it stays calm and happy, you’re probably in the clear.

What if it reacts?

Redness, itching, bumps, stinging or flaking are all signs your skin’s not a fan. Wash it off gently with water and a bland cleanser, and skip that product (or check with your formulator if it’s tweakable!).

Keep it in perspective

A reaction doesn’t mean your skin is “bad” or “difficult”—it just means it has preferences. And you, my friend, are smart for listening.