How to do a patch test
Every skincare product, however gentle, contains ingredients that some people react to. That isn't a sign of a bad product — it's how skin works. A patch test is a simple way to find out how your own skin responds before you apply something to your whole face.
We recommend patch testing every new product, whichever brand it comes from.
What is a patch test?
Applying a small amount of a new product to a small, discreet area of skin, then waiting to see how that skin responds before using the product normally.
How to patch test
- Choose a spot. The inside of your forearm is easiest. Behind the ear or along the jawline is closer to facial skin, so it's a better guide for face products.
- Clean and dry the area. Don't test on skin that's broken, sunburnt, shaving-irritated or already inflamed.
- Apply a small amount — roughly the size of a five-cent coin. Leave-on products (serums, ampoules, moisturisers, sunscreens) stay on. Rinse-off products (cleansers, masks, exfoliants) should be left for the time stated on the packaging, then rinsed — keep watching the same patch afterwards.
- Wait 24 hours. Don't scrub or wash the area more than usual.
- Repeat for two to three days if you can. Some reactions only appear after repeated contact.
- Test one product at a time. If you start three new products at once and something happens, you won't know which one caused it.
What to look for
Stop and rinse the area if you notice redness that doesn't settle, itching, burning or stinging, swelling, small bumps or blisters, or flaking on the tested patch.
A brief, mild tingle can occur with some active ingredients such as AHAs, BHAs or vitamin C. Sustained stinging or burning is a different thing. If you can't tell which you're feeling, stop — nothing is lost by waiting.
If you react
Stop using the product and rinse the area with cool water. Keep the rest of your routine simple and unfragranced for a few days.
If the reaction is severe or spreading, or involves swelling of the face, lips, eyes or tongue, or any difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
For anything that worries you, speak to a doctor or pharmacist. We sell skincare — we can't give medical advice.
An honest word about limits
A patch test lowers your risk. It doesn't remove it. Reactions can appear days or weeks into using a product, and a patch of forearm skin doesn't always behave like the thinner skin around your eyes. Sensitivity can also develop to something you've used happily for years.
If you already know you react to a particular ingredient, check the ingredient list on the product page before ordering — or email us and we'll check for you.
If you do react to something you bought from us, please tell us. It helps us look after other customers.