Patch Testing

WHAT IS PATCH TESTING?

Patch testing is done to prevent any major reactions on the skin. Although regular skin types are often quite welcoming to new products, reactions can happen to anyone at any time.

Everyone’s skin is different. As our skin experiences changes over time - whether through age, diet, environmental shifts, or simply the various beauty products we are constantly trying - so too will its sensitivity to different products.

What once worked for your skin may lead to a different reaction later, especially if the product’s formula has been updated, or a significant time has elapsed between your first time use and your most recent order.

The skin’s barrier may be affected by new ingredients, including acids, AHAs, BHAs and retinoids that are found in a numerous amount of beauty products. So to be on the safe side, we recommend always performing a patch test before trying out something new.

HOW TO PATCH TEST:

To patch test a new product, simply apply a pea-sized amount to a part of your skin and wait for at least 24 hours to ensure your skin will get along with the ingredients. Most beauty products are best tested along the jawline or a small area on the neck. In case of a reaction, these areas can be easily concealed and treated. If you’ve experienced no reaction within 24 hours, this is a great indicator that your skin is happy with the product and you’re all good to go.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I HAVE A REACTION?

If you have any burning, stinging or itching or redness, remove the product immediately by using a simple cleanser or lukewarm water.

If you experience any heat, we recommend using a cold compress to take heat and inflammation out of the skin.

Pro tip? Cut up some gauze, run it under the tap and squeeze out any excess liquid and place in a freezer bag and pop in the freezer.

Then follow up with a product to repair the skin’s barrier. Here are some of our favourites:

La Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 or CeraVe Moisturising Lotion both are designed to protect and repair skin’s barrier while providing deep hydration.

We hope this helps you and your skincare journey. As always, if you would like to chat, send our friendly Customer Care Team an email at help@bellabox.com.au and they will assist.