How to Patch Test
While Off Trail Vermont creates products with you and your little ones in mind, it is possible to have sensitivities to all/all ingredients organic and natural products included. For this reason testing for reactions is recommended.
The principles of using a new product:
Start with a low dose and slow -The smaller the body weight the lower the dose and increase the testing wait time
When in doubt do not use -Not all herbs are safe for use on the skin or internally
Test 1 ingredient at a time to improve quality of results -The more ingredients a product has the harder to identify the cause of sensitivity If you are pregnant, looking to get pregnant or breastfeeding do your research
Herbs have magical powers, but sometimes they work against your goals how to test for external use
Patch Testing Fresh Herbs
-Wash and dry your skin -If the herb is fresh rub a small amount on the inner wrist and wait 30mins.
-If no reaction occurs proceed with small quantities and continue to monitor for symptoms.
-If a mild allergic reaction occurs wash with soap and water and do not use.
-If a severe allergic reaction occurs wash with soap and water and seek Emergency Help immediately.
Patch Testing Dried Herbs
-Wash and dry your skin
-Soak herb in a bit of warm water to saturate and then rub small amount on inner wrist and wait 30mins.
-If no reaction occurs proceed with small quantities and continue to monitor for symptoms.
-If a mild allergic reaction occurs wash with soap and water and do not use.
-If a severe allergic reaction occurs wash with soap and water and seek Emergency Help immediately.
Patch Testing Oils, Balms, Creams or Lotions
-Wash and dry the skin
-Apply small nickel sized amount of product on the inner wrist using a clean cotton swab
-Cover with a bandaid and wait 24 hrs.
-If no reaction occurs remove bandaid proceed with small quantities and continue to monitor for symptoms.
-If a mild allergic reaction occurs wash with soap and water and do not use.
Signs of Allergic Reaction
While some of these are more common with ingestion of allergens, I will note them here. Sometimes a little person sneaks a bite of something we nobody is looking and knowing these symptoms could save a life.
Mild symptoms:
Hives
Burning
Itching
Nasal congestion
Rash
Scratchy throat Itchy
Watery eyes
Severe symptoms:
Abdominal cramping or pain
Pain or tightness in the chest
Diarrhea
Difficulty swallowing
Dizziness (vertigo)
Fear or anxiety
Flushing of the face
Nausea or vomiting
Heart palpitations
Swelling of the face, eyes, or tongue
Weakness
Wheezing
Difficulty breathing
Unconsciousness
Anaphylactic shock is a severe and sudden life threatening allergic reaction. It can progress very quickly and you should seek Emergency help immediately. If you have experienced anaphylactic shock in the past use more caution in testing products and consult a Physician on how to proceed.
Other things to know:
- Temperature, water or mixing products can alter results
- Avoid showering, swimming or hot tubs, high exertion exercise when testing a new product
- Irritation is not an allergic reaction
- If mild symptoms occur and resolve within 30mins they are likely irritation (contact dermatitis) and not an allergic reaction.
- Oils increase permeability (absorption into skin) making essential oils more potent to babies. It is generally not recommend to use essential oils until babies are over 6 Months, however, I believe that it is more appropriate to wait until over 1-2 years old as their skin barrier is not yet developed and an infused dry or fresh herb in water is much safer- after patch testing.
- Animals do not always respond well to human products. This includes essential oils and herbs.
- Keep your products stored properly. Changes in composition can alter their efficacy and your response to them.
- Essential oils should not be used around animals unless indicated safe.
- Use more caution if you have experienced anaphylaxis in the past- it may be more likely to occur.
- As always keep products that may cause harm to pets, children or vulnerable adults out of reach.
The Takeaway
Many herbs are very gentle and safe for sensitive skin, however, every body responds differently so it is vital to use caution and learn to know what your body prefers before lathing it on!
Questions? comments? Leave them below!