What is patch testing?
Patch Testing means that you first apply a new skincare product or ingredient to a small area of your (facial) skin to test your skin's reaction to the skincare or ingredient. Often, patch tests are performed in the hospital but when it comes to skincare, you can also do this yourself at home.
Why patch testing?
If you have sensitive skin, react to a particular ingredient or want to test whether the skincare product is for you before buying the full-size version, it's smart to do a patch test. That way you won't have any surprises and you won't run the risk of throwing away your (new) skincare because your skin doesn't react well to it.
Step by step patch testing
Avoid surprises and find out if your new skincare is a match. Before you flip your entire routine and introduce your new skincare favorite, it's smart to perform a patch test. That way you can be sure your skin is happy with it, too. How it works.
We start the patch test of skincare first on a patch of body skin that is not as visible such as the inside of your elbow or the back of your knee. The skin in these areas is thin and fragile and therefore closest to the skin on your face. So spread the skincare on the inside of your elbow or in the back of your knee. If your skin does not react well in any of these areas, then you can safely assume that you do not want to apply the skincare to your face either. Does your skin give no reaction within 24 hours? Then go to step 2 of patch testing.
Did the patch testing on the skin of your elbow and/or knee hollow not cause a reaction? Fine. Then you can apply the skincare product to - a not so visible part of - your face. Think of a corner of your forehead that your hair falls over, for example, or the skin behind your ear, or the bottom of your jawline. If the skin does not react here, then the product is probably safe for your skin.
F.A.Q. about patch testing
Itching and a burning sensation may occur when performing a patch test. Try not to scratch the patch test site but instead try to apply pressure or apply a cold, dry cloth. Your skin is probably going to have a reaction to the patch test.
Be sure to minimize your exposure to water. This is because you're rinsing the skincare off your body with it, and it's important to know if the skin gives a reaction within 24 hours.
The elbow and hollow of the knee, in particular, are places where you can start sweating quickly. Once you have performed the patch test there, it is best to keep them "dry" for 24 hours. So rather skip exercising for a day or perform the patch test on a day you are not going to exercise.
Sample Sizes & Travel Sizes
Do you doubt whether a product suits your skin? Or would you first like to try out a product or do some patch testing yourself? Then choose our Sample Sizes and Travel Sizes. This way you can test the product and experience how your skin reacts to it. Discover new favorites and put together your ideal skin care routine. Do you like the sample sizes or travel sizes? Then buy them inexpensively as fullsizes.
