How to test New Skincare Products without Splashing the cash

When adding a step into your skincare routine, or even venturing into using a new product, patch testing is always a good idea. No matter if you’re in the pursuit of younger looking skin, to reduce fine lines or maybe even combating uneven skin tone, you are always running a small risk of irritation. 

Here at Skinstation, we understand that everyone’s skin is different and requires unique approaches when it comes to caring for it. With some more sensitive skin types, you can get irritated by even the most simple products, so it’s important to test a product out on a smaller area of your body before making it a staple in your everyday routine.

A patch test is a simple way to gauge whether your skin is going to be happy when using a new product, ensuring that you won’t have an adverse reaction. This is called a spot or patch test and involves placing the product on a less noticeable part of your skin, say your arm or your thigh. The face has demonstrated to be the most common site of skin sensitivity, applying the new product elsewhere first could save your face from a reaction if your skin doesn’t agree with it. You have to be patient when completing a patch test, because it’s unlikely that you will get an instant result. 

Our skin experts always recommend trying before you buy the product, as it allows for you to ensure that it’s correct for your skin type. Patch testing a product is important for all skin types. You may not feel you have sensitive skin, however, it doesn’t mean your skin is going to enjoy stronger products like retinol or glycolic acid.

To patch test a piece of skin, first make sure it’s clean and fresh. Choose a more accessible place to test, like the crook of your elbow, where you will be able to see the results (if there are any, of course). Then leave the skin alone for 24 hours, unless it feels uncomfortable. 

We also recommend applying a small amount to the area and even covering it with a plaster or band-aid, whilst you wait. Only applying a small amount will mean that if you do have a reaction of sorts, that it will only be minor and easy to treat. 
If you’re unsure of what your skin type is, our team of experts are happy to help you figure it out. Use the Skin Analysis page on our website for further information surrounding which types of skin there are and how to tell which one you could have. Or complete this simple at home ‘test’ which will make things more clear. 

• Begin by washing your face with a mild cleanser.

• Pat it dry with a towel

• Leave your skin for around 2 hours

• Take a sheet of toilet paper and press firmly on the nose, cheeks, chin and forehead.

Now, to check the results. If your skin is oily, the paper will stick to your skin, lift up oil and appear translucent, whereas if your skin is more on the dry side, the paper or cloth will not stick or lift up any excess oil. If your skin is a combination type or normal, the paper or cloth may stick to your T-zone or other parts of your face. 

When it comes to trying a new product, buying a regular sized bottle can seem like a waste, especially if you’re planning on patch testing them. It could leave you asking questions like ‘What if I have a reaction?’, ‘Will I still use a full bottle?’

Purchasing skincare minis allow you to see if the product works for your skin before you fully commit to buying it. The trial size skincare products means that you can test our ranges, as it’s all the same ingredients just in a smaller bottle. 

These smaller products are typically a fraction of the price and are a great way to trial amazing new skincare items which could find their way into your daily routine. 

If you’re thinking about giving the gift of clearer, more radiant skin this Christmas season, may we suggest the Obagi Christmas Cracker Deluxe Mini? Complete with a trial sized version of the ELASTIderm Facial Serum, the Obagi Daily Hydro-Drops and the Obagi Professional-C Polish + Mask, this set of skincare products could be the perfect gift you have been looking for. These mini products allow the person you are buying for this Christmas to test these sensational skincare items without having to commit to a full sized version.