It’s many women’s worst nightmare.  You splurge on a brand new beauty product and spend time getting dolled up, only to notice bumps, itchiness or redness a few hours later.  No one wants their face looking like they rolled around in poison ivy all afternoon!

Skin reactions, often called dermatitis, are commonly caused by allergens in beauty products. This means it’s important to know not only which ingredients can often cause allergic reactions, but also how to test yourself for cosmetic allergies before applying them.

 How do I know if I’m having an allergic reaction?

Believe me, you’ll know!  When an ingredient in your beauty routine is reacting to your skin, there are a number of common symptoms.  Redness, bumps, itchiness and dry patches can all be signs of a mild allergic reaction.  In more severe cases, allergens can cause swelling, blisters and pain in the skin.

 What common ingredients should I watch out for?

Most often, allergic reactions in cosmetics are caused by preservatives and fragrances.  The most common preservatives include parabens, formaldehyde and ingredients with hard to pronounce names (like phenoxyethanol).  When it comes to fragrances, look for products that say “fragrance free” – even cosmetics labelled “unscented” often have fragrances included to mask the scent of chemicals.  The worst cosmetic culprits?  Soap, eye Makeup, nail polish, hair dye, lipsticks and shampoos.

How do I avoid allergens in beauty products?

The easiest way to avoid an allergic reaction is to test the products before application!  It’s extremely simple, and can save you from any uncomfortable allergic breakouts.  To avoid any skin reactions, use the following steps:

1. Perform a patch test – You can do a simple allergy test in the comfort of your own home! Simply take the product you want to test, and apply it to either the wrist, inner forearm or behind the ear (these locations are extra sensitive, so you’ll easily see irritation).  After around 48-72 hours if you see any redness or itching, discontinue using that product right away.
2. Keep the ingredient list short and simple – Look for products that contain only a few ingredients, and aim for ones least likely to contain allergens. The best bet?  If you can easily read and understand all of the ingredients on the label, you’re less likely to have an allergic reaction.
3. Check the expiration date – Keep your makeup fresh, and toss any products that may be past their prime. Old makeup products can be a home for bacteria and alter the chemical makeup of your products, causing major irritation.  A good rule of thumb: toss powder after 2 years, cream after 6 months and mascara after 3 months.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to avoid an uncomfortable allergic reaction from your makeup, skincare or beauty products.

Are you dying to learn more about how to keep your skin happy and healthy?  Check out Trendimi’s Skin and Body Care course, and you can learn from the comfort of your own home at your own pace!

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