Taking The Hype Out Of Hypoallergenic
Submitted by Beauty Brains Blog
Kathy’s query: Hi, just found your site and love it. I was wondering what are the most hypoallergenic makeups out there. I have heard that ALL make up is hypoallergenic, not true. If anyone else is like me, there are many types of brands that I cannot even look at, let alone use. Any other moisturizers or other facial cosmetic names would be helpful too.
The Left Brain’s reply:
Excellent question Kathy. Unfortunately, it’s virtually impossible to answer. That’s because there is no universal standard for what constitutes hypoallergenic. Since each company is free to create its own guidelines, there’s no way to tell which brand is “the most” hypoallergenic.
Hype-o-allergenic
According to the FDA,
Hypoallergenic cosmetics are products that manufacturers claim produce fewer allergic reactions than other cosmetic products. Consumers with hypersensitive skin, and even those with “normal” skin, may be led to believe that these products will be gentler to their skin than non-hypoallergenic cosmetics.
There are no Federal standards or definitions that govern the use of the term “hypoallergenic.” The term means whatever a particular company wants it to mean. Manufacturers of cosmetics labeled as hypoallergenic are not required to submit substantiation of their hypoallergenicity claims to FDA.
Futhermore, the FDA cautions that the hypoallergenic has advertising value but “dermatologists say it has very little meaning.”
The Beauty Brains bottom line
Sadly, you can’t necessarily tell if a product will be good for your skin by whether or not it claims to be hypoallergenic. Instead, look for brands that have a good reputation and that avoid ingredients like fragrance that are known irritants. (This might be a good topic to post in the Beauty Brains Forum.) And once you find a product that works for you, stick with it.
What are YOUR favorite products for sensitive skin? Leave a comment and share your sensitivity with the rest of the Beauty Brains community.
