What is Hypoallergenic Skin Care?
What is Hypoallergenic Skin Care?
If you have sensitive skin, there’s a good chance you shop for products that have been deemed hypoallergenic to avoid an uncomfortable reaction. In a nutshell, hypoallergenic skincare is formulated with fewer active ingredients that have been shown to cause allergies.
So whether you suffer from common conditions like eczema, rosacea, or tend to battle breakouts, hypoallergenic products seem like a no-brainer. But is hypoallergenic beauty and skincare worth the hype? Tag along as we put on our detective hats and sniff out the scoop on hypoallergenic cosmetic products!
What does hypoallergenic mean?
According to the FDA, “Hypoallergenic cosmetics are products that manufacturers claim produce fewer allergic reactions than other cosmetic products.” The word “claim” is important in that definition, as they go on to explain that hypoallergenic can mean whatever a company intends for it to mean. In other words, there’s no set standard that a product must meet in order to be labeled hypoallergenic, nor is there any form of regulation on the part of the FDA. So what does this mean for individuals with sensitive skin?
Hypoallergenic can often mean that the product simply lacks dyes or fragrance. Or, in many cases it means that known allergens like latex, preservatives, and metals are extracted from the product before it hits the shelf. So while brands are free to use the term loosely, there’s almost always some sort of variation that takes place on the ingredient level.
Are Moody products hypoallergenic?
All Moody Products have been formulated for sensitive skin and are dye and cruelty free.
Moody Sisters only use ingredients and products tested on a variety of skin types, including those with sensitive skin, rosacea, allergies, and eczema. We focus on natural and organic because we have found that these ingredients are less likely to cause common skin reactions.
Common allergic reactions to beauty products:
Hives
Swelling of the face, lips, eyes & more
Redness
Dryness & itchiness
Break outs or blistering
Most people with skin reactions have allergies or sensitivities to chemicals and dyes.
Is hypoallergenic skincare good for sensitive skin?
The short answer to this question is yes. Anyone who’s suffered with sensitive skin knows how painful it can be, and is likely willing to take whatever measures might bring some sense of relief. Especially for those experiencing more extreme sensitivities, like psoriasis or contact dermititis, hypoallergenic skin and beauty products may be less likely to cause irritation.
That being said, we still highly recommend reading the ingredient list. It’s also important to note the active versus inactive ingredients. Active ingredients are the chemical compounds that are intended to perform a function, or target a specific concern. Inactive ingredients are equally as important, despite their name. These ingredients work to enhance active ingredients, and help deliver them to the deepest layers of your skin.
Popular active ingredients include:
Alpha Hydroxy Acids - ingredients like glycolic or lactic acid are intended to even out your skin’s tone and texture.
Vitamins & minerals - Vitamins A, B, C & E can easily be found in many beauty products, including skincare and cosmetics. Though they have varying uses, each has a hand in keeping your skin youthful.
Salicylic Acid & Benzoyl Peroxide - If blemishes are your biggest bother, keep an eye out for these two active ingredients.
Retinol - Some regard retinol as skincare’s holy grail ingredient, and for good reason. It smoothes fine lines and wrinkles, reduces the appearance of dark spots and scars, and gives your skin an overall glow.
Hyaluronic Acid - Another crowd favorite is hyaluronic acid, beloved for its hydrating properties. If your skin is parched, introducing hyaluronic acid can make the world of difference.
Niacinamide - Redness and inflammation is no match for niacinamide. This popular active ingredient soothes and calms your skin, so it can withstand harsh conditions.