How Do You Use a Skin Tester?
Skin testers come in various forms, each with its own application method. This answer addresses the use of both at-home skin type testers and allergy/patch tests performed by medical professionals.
This type of skin tester is often a single-use strip designed to determine your skin type (e.g., oily, dry, combination). Follow these steps as outlined by YourDermStore:
- Prepare the Strip: Take the skin type test strip out of its packaging.
- Apply the Strip: Gently press the strip onto your forehead or cheek, ensuring good contact with your skin.
- Wait: Leave the strip in place for 3-5 seconds.
- Interpret the Results: Remove the strip and compare the reaction to the guide provided with the tester. This will indicate your skin type.
Using Allergy/Patch Tests (Medical Professional)
Allergy and patch tests, used to identify sensitivities to substances like allergens or specific ingredients in skincare products, are administered by a healthcare professional. The process differs depending on the type of test:
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Skin Prick Test: A small amount of allergen is pricked onto the skin's surface. This is the most common type of allergy skin test (Cleveland Clinic). Results are usually immediate.
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Intradermal Test: A small amount of allergen is injected just under the skin. This test is also conducted by a medical professional and may be used if a skin prick test is negative (Mayo Clinic).
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Patch Test: A small amount of the suspected substance (e.g., a skincare product ingredient) is applied to the skin under a patch. The patch remains in place for several days before being removed and evaluated (Medical News Today). Results aren't immediate; it takes several days to observe a reaction.
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Tuberculin Skin Test (TST): This test, administered by a healthcare professional, uses a purified protein derivative (PPD) to determine if someone is infected with TB bacteria (CDC). A small amount of testing material is injected under the skin. The results are read after a certain amount of time.
Remember: Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional for allergy or patch testing. For at-home skin type tests, carefully read and follow the included instructions. Self-treating allergies or skin conditions is not advisable.
