Patch Testing

Close-up of a person's hands dispensing Medik8 C-Tetra Advanced gel-serum from an amber pump bottle onto their fingers. Set against a warm orange background, the image highlights the product's white, creamy texture as it is being pumped out.

At Medik8 we always recommend performing a patch test before incorporating any new product into your routine.

What Is a Patch Test?

Although relatively rare, reactions from allergies and sensitivities to certain ingredients in any skincare product can occur. Patch testing gives peace of mind that a new product is suitable for your skin.

Apply a small amount first to check for any adverse effects, before regular use. We recommend only patch testing up to 2 products at a time. Therefore, if a reaction does occur, you will know which product is responsible for the reaction.

How To Perform a Patch Test

NOTE: We cannot rely on patch tests alone to prevent all potential reactions, as they do not guarantee that similar results will be observed when the product is applied to other areas of the body, such as the face. It’s therefore important you follow the product’s usage directions and precautions carefully.

Patch testing will not account for underlying conditions and should not be used to diagnose hypersensitivity or allergic contact dermatitis, unless under the supervision of a doctor. If you have any concerns, please contact your doctor or dermatologist for advice.

If you do experience any form of excessive irritation during your patch test, please contact our Customer Care team: customercare@medik8.com

FAQs

Why do I need to do a patch test?

We always recommend performing a patch test before incorporating any new product into your routine. It's a quick and easy way to see whether the product is suitable for your skin.

How do I carry out a patch test?

All you'll need to do is apply a small amount of product onto cleansed skin, we recommend applying to your jawline or behind your ear. Once applied, keep the area dry and undisturbed for 24 hours to allow for full absorption. It's important to keep an eye on the area over the next 24 hours to see if there is any form of irritation. If you experience no form of irritation, you can use the product as per our directions.

When should I patch test?

We recommend performing a patch test before applying any new products to your skin. A patch test helps you quickly determine whether the product is suitable for your skin. We particularly recommend patch testing any products with a high potency - such as Super C Ferulic and Surface Radiance Cleanse. 

How do I patch test more than one product?

You can patch test up to 2 products at a time. Place the 2 products on either side of the jaw or behind either ear, and make a note of which side you have applied each product to. Therefore, if a response does occur, you will be able to accurately identify which product caused the response.  

How frequently can I conduct patch tests?

If you wish to patch test again, we recommend waiting 3 days before testing a new formula on the same area. This helps to avoid confusion of results.

Are Medik8 products safe for use on my skin?

All of our products are completely safe for use on the skin, having undergone extensive testing and assessment by an independent safety assessor. However, allergies and sensitivities to certain ingredients within any skincare product can occur. With increases in the amount of products people use within their daily skincare routines, we always recommend patch testing as best practice before trying a new product.