At CHOSEN, skin safety comes first. Our formulas are dermatologist designed and clinically reviewed, but every skin is unique. A quick patch test helps you check for early irritation before bringing a new product into your routine.

Why Patch Test?

• Screens for early irritation with new ingredients/formats.
• Helps sensitive or reactive skin users introduce actives safely.
• Useful when starting retinoids, acids, hair/scalp actives, or products used post procedure.

How to Patch Test?

Leave on products (serums, creams, sunscreens, scalp serums)

1. Clean and dry the test area.
2. Apply a thin layer; do not occlude.
3. Leave on and check the site at 30 minutes, 24 hours, and 48 hours.

Rinse off products (cleansers, washes, masks)

1. Use the product over a small area, following the directions for use. Observe your skin.
2. Recheck at 6–8 hours and 24 hours for any delayed reaction.

No significant reaction? You are good to go!

Where to test?

Inner forearm: default site for most products

Behind the ear/along jawline: closer to facial tolerance for actives and sunscreens

Scalp products: test on a coin sized area behind the ear within the hairline

What’s Normal vs Not

• Often OK (transient, settles in ≤30 min): mild warmth, slight tingling with acids/retinoids, very faint redness without itching.
• Not OK (stop use, wash off): persistent stinging, intense itching, marked redness, swelling, blisters, welts, headache, shortness of breath (seek medical care).

Note:

• A patch test reduces risk but does not rule out irritation or allergy that may occur with full face use, sun exposure, layering, or overuse.
• Do not patch test on broken/irritated skin, active dermatitis, or immediately post procedure unless advised by your dermatologist.
• Photosensitizing actives (e.g., AHA/BHA, retinoids) require daily sunscreen on exposed areas.
• If you are pregnant/breastfeeding, on prescription actives, or have known allergies, consult your physician before starting new products.
• Patch testing is not a diagnostic test for allergic contact dermatitis; formal diagnosis requires medical evaluation.

Need Help?

Not sure how to start, or reacted to something? Our expert team can help you personalize your routine and cadence.

• Call us at +91 9384000411 (available from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM)
• DM us on CHOSEN’s Instagram page
• Email us at support@chosenstore.in

(This guidance is educational and not a substitute for in person medical advice)