If you have any concerns regarding an ingredient in a new skin or hair care product, it is always best to work with your dermatologist. Check out the American Academy of Dermatology to find a board-certified dermatologist near you.
If you are unable to consult a dermatologist, we have provided some tips for introducing your latest product find.
- Review the ingredients listed on the product label. Use caution to avoid using products with known common chemical skin irritants.
- Introduce one product at a time. This way, if a product is not compatible with your skin, you will know exactly which product is the culprit.
- If you are using any topical or oral medications for your skin, talk with your dermatologist before introducing a new product. Some medications are known to suppress skin contact reactions.
- Before using the product, apply a tiny amount to clean skin in a discreet place, and leave it there for 24-48 hours. The inside of your elbow is a popular spot.
- Covering the spot where you applied the product with a bandage will prevent it from getting rubbed or washed off and can give you more accurate results.
- If you are unsure if the product is compatible, or if any reaction occurs, stop usage and consult a medical professional.
- If no reaction occurs, you should be able to continue using the product by following the directions on the label. However, it is still recommended to introduce it slowly, and use it for at least a week before introducing other new products.
If you have concerns with one of our products, we can work with your dermatologist or patch-test professional to provide ingredients for a skin patch test.
All content, including text, graphics, images, and information is for general information purposes only. This information is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and you are encouraged to confirm this information with your physician. Pharmaceutical Specialties, Inc. makes no representation and assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of this information.
Arndt, Kenneth A., et al. Manual of Dermatologic Therapeutics. 8th ed., Wolters Kluwer Health, 2014.
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/types/contact-dermatitis/patch-testing-rash
https://www.insider.com/dermatologists-how-to-introduce-a-skincare-product-to-your-routine-2020-9