Nowadays, cosmetics companies are releasing more and more products labelled as “hypoallergenic”, “allergy tested” or “safe for sensitive skin”. These terms imply that these products are gentler and safer for sensitive skin and less likely to cause allergic reactions than other cosmetic products. But is this really true?
Not really. The word hypoallergenic is primarily used as a marketing tool (the term was coined by advertisers) and means whatever a company wants it to mean. There isn’t a standard definition of the term and its use isn’t regulated in any way. Cosmetics companies aren’t required to submit proof of hypoallergenic claims to FDA. This means that a product labelled as hypoallergenic can still contain ingredients that cause allergies.
There aren’t scientific studies that demonstrate that hypoallergenic products are less likely to cause negative reactions. All cosmetics company use pretty much the same basic ingredients in their products. And because anyone can be allergic to anything, it is in fact impossible to guarantee that a product will never cause an allergic reaction.
However, manufactures are required to list ingredients on product labels. So, consumers that know what ingredients they’re allergic to can easily avoid those products containing substances that can cause skin problems for them.
{ 12 comments… read them below or add one }
I believe that not all hypoallergenic products are safe!
Wow, thanks for writing this article. I’m a sucker for hypoallergenic products but now I’ll think twice before buying them.
It’s funny that most products (I mean, all?) that I have a hard time with have one of those claims printed on the bottle…
Olay and Aveeno being worst in my case , olay sensitive lotion just hurts on even scratched skin while the Aveeno “oil free” can melt off the writing on a bourjois blusher.
Most high-end products I’ve seen doesn’t have such thing written.
Unlike Citrine, my skin does not love high end products that much. The only high end brand I can use is Estee Lauder. I go for scent free and non-comedogenic products since hypoallergenic is a hoax. And yes, reading labels does help.
It all depends on what you’re allergic to, anyways. You could be allergic to something that is used regularly in a hypoallergetic product. This is kinda like that “organic” and “pure” craze that’s going on. I can’t wait for it to finally be over!!
P.S. I noticed that you do not have the Beauty Brains listed as a link on your site. Have you ever gone there? http://thebeautybrains.com
Nikki: good for you hun, the whole hypoallergenic thing is just a hoax!
ohmypetticoat: you’re welcome. Hypoallergenic products aren’t bad, it’s just that they aren’t safer as comapnies want people to believe. It’s important to always check out the ingredients list to be sure the product doesn’t contain substances that can cause problems for your skin.
Citrine: I’m sorry to hear that. I seen this claim on some high-end products too but I usually take no notice of it and just scan the ingredients list. I can’t believe that companies can get away with making such false claims and make money off people that buy products genuinely thinking they’re better for the skin only to found out they’re not and still have breakouts of irritations. The use of teh term should be rgulated, if not prohibited, soon.
Dao: I always check ingrdient lists and prefer fragrance-free products when possible. That’s the best way to make sure the products won’t cause any problem for your skin. I have to say that I’m a bit skeptical about the non-comedogenic claim though. It’s true that these products are less likely to cause blackheads etc. But there are just so many ingredients that can clog pores and eveyone’s skin is different and it’s impossible to be sure that a product is non-comedogenic for everyone. But they’re still the best products to use if you oily or acne prone skin as the chances of them causing breakouts are much more slimmer.
Danielle: You’re so right and I couldn’t agree with you more! I never take any notice of all these claims as they are just false advertising and I’m appalled that companies can get away with it.
I’ve really learnt a lot from them and I’m glad that you follow them too. They’re a great resource and really help you to amke smarter choices.
And I love the Beauty Brains blog! I have their link on my blogroll and it’s one of my daily reads.
Ooh, I see them now under The Beauty Brains. My mistake. Love their stuff!
Awe! love that smashbox shadow color
Danielle: that’s ok, there ar so many links in the blogroll that even I can’t find what I’m looking for sometimes lol. I love them too!
Anastacia: it really is a vey pretty color.
Thank you for this article. I have extremely sensitive skin and find myself always having an issue with lotions, sun screens, face lotions…now I know not to trust ‘hypoallergenic’
The Ohio Acadmy, you’re welcome. Hope this article helped you