Journal

Skin safety

Skin safety begins with checking a new product’s directions and ingredients and taking time to observe how your skin responds. Patch-testing on a small area before wider use can help you notice unwanted reactions. This section explains practical precautions, what to look for during a patch test, and why you should avoid applying unfamiliar products to irritated or broken skin. Stop using a product if irritation occurs; seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional if symptoms are persistent or severe. Browse our guide to patch-testing for step-by-step information. Skincare routines are personal, so introduce changes carefully and follow the instructions supplied with each product.

A reaction does not necessarily identify which ingredient caused it. If you are worried about an ingredient, have a known sensitivity or notice persistent discomfort, seek personalized guidance from a qualified dermatologist.