Before you start using a new cosmetic product on a large area of ​​your skin, it's important to assess how your skin will react to it. That's why there's a patch test . A patch test is a simple but extremely useful method that helps you check how your skin reacts to a formulation. Although testing cosmetic products is mandatory for brands, every body reacts differently, so this step is highly recommended.

Yes, I know it sounds tempting to immediately apply a new cosmetic product to your skin, but don't skip this step because even with products made with very pure, natural ingredients, there is always the possibility of an allergic reaction or irritation. That's why, although Wild Mallow products are dermatologically tested, we recommend a basic patch test. It's not foolproof, but it's a good habit, especially if you have sensitive skin that's prone to irritation.

What is a patch test?

A patch test is a short examination of the skin's compatibility with a new product, in which you apply a small amount of the product to a small part of the skin and monitor the reaction. It is best to apply the product on the inner part of the forearm, because the skin there is thin and more delicate. With this test, you detect possible irritation, redness, burning sensation, swelling or allergic reaction before applying the product to larger surfaces.

Why is a patch test important?

Regardless of the quality of the product, whether it has been dermatologically tested or formulated according to the rules of the profession, an individual skin reaction is always possible . Irritation does not mean that the product is bad, but that it is not compatible with your skin or that you are hypersensitive to a certain ingredient in the formulation (preservatives, active ingredients, essential oils or herbal components.)

In our Symbiotic line, we do not use essential oils and nut oils because we know that atopic patients often have reactions to such ingredients, but regardless, we still recommend this test because it provides a quick assessment of skin compatibility, reduces the risk of irritation, enables a safer start of using a new product and gives a better insight into the sensitivity of your own skin.

Patch testing is especially important for all products that contain active ingredients such as AHA and BHA acids, retinoids, vitamin C, plant extracts, or for children's and extremely sensitive skin.

How to do a patch test before using the product for the first time?

There is a simple, standardized method that you can use for all products—from serums and creams to oils and balms.

1. Choose a spot on the skin

The best places to do a patch test are the inner side of the forearm, the crook of the elbow, or the skin behind the ear (especially for facial products). These regions are sensitive enough and give a realistic picture of the reaction.

2. Apply a small amount of product

Apply a very thin layer of product, about the size of a pea, to the selected area. Do not rub in, just spread the product lightly.

3. Do not rinse the product for 24 hours

Ideally, the product should be left on the skin for at least 24 hours. If it is a product that is normally rinsed off, such as a cleanser or mask, leave the product on for 10–15 minutes and then rinse. Just like you would use it on your face, only in this case you are using the product on a small area of ​​skin.

4. Observe reactions

Over the next few hours, monitor for redness, itching, burning, rash, intense tightness, or swelling. Mild redness that quickly disappears can be a normal skin reaction to a certain active ingredient like acids, but anything that burns, itches, or intensifies means the product is not compatible with your skin.

After that, you draw a conclusion. If there is no reaction within 24 hours, you can use the product normally. If any irritation occurs, the product is not compatible with your skin and you should not use it.

When is a patch test particularly recommended?

A patch test is especially recommended if you have a history of allergies or reactions to cosmetics , are introducing products with active ingredients into your routine, are trying products for children on children's skin, have sensitive, atopic or reactive skin, are pregnant or are using several new products at once.

Patch testing does not replace a dermatological test.

It is important to understand that dermatological testing of cosmetic products is conducted on volunteers under the supervision of experts, and you conduct a patch test at home yourself, as an additional safety check.

A patch test is a simple, quick and extremely useful step before the first use of any new cosmetic product. It doesn't take up your time, and it can save you unpleasant reactions and irritations. In an industry where even perfectly formulated, tested and regulatory compliant products can cause an individual reaction to someone, this is the most practical tool you have for safe use.