Skin Care Product Tips

Labels are just that, labels. Many people see these key words and assume their meaning when in all actuality they are quite deceiving. "Dermatologist-tested" has yet to be formally identified with a clear definition by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Meaning that manufactures do not necessarily have to perform tests, or provide supporting evidence, to confirm that these "Dermatologist-tested" products were analyzed by a doctor-let alone a dermatologist-and will not cause allergic reactions.

"Non-comedogenic" is an important term for individuals who suffer from acne congestion. It refers to a product that will not cause excess oil build-up in the skin, reducing the amount of whiteheads and blackheads. It is occasionally tested by placing an agent inside a rabbit's ear and then counting the numbers of comedones (acne lesions) present. More importantly the FDA does not enforce strict guidelines here, and if an individual is suffering from acne that is caused by bacteria, a non-comedogenic product will not eliminate this condition.

It seems to me that "fragrance free" or "unscented" is attached to everything these days-candles, detergent, hair and skin care...the list is endless. In fact "fragrance free" doesn't mean there is no fragrance present in a product at all. Some companies insert fragrance to mask the offensive smell of raw materials used. If these inserts are barely noticeable then a company can claim it is "fragrance free."

With no regulatory FDA definition, "hypoallergenic" can mean whatever the manufacturer wants it to mean. Many people with perceived sensitive skin rightly assume these items will be safe to use. Placing a label on these cosmetics doesn't mean that no irritation will arise; it just means that this product created fewer allergic reactions than in other cosmetic products. However, what so-called products they are testing them against and where the documentation is validating their claims is a mystery.