Is your beauty product actually hypoallergenic?

No. "Hypoallergenic" is a marketing term with no FDA definition, standard, or required testing — any brand can print it on any product. It suggests a product is formulated to reduce the chance of a reaction, but it is a claim, not a guarantee. The only way to know how a product behaves on your skin is to read the ingredient list and patch-test.

Each verdict reflects the product's published ingredient list, not a lab test on your skin. "Generally lower risk" means the formula skips most high-frequency allergens; "Depends on your skin" means it contains ingredients that bother some people but not others; "Higher-risk formula" means it carries one or more well-known common triggers, such as fragrance or certain preservatives. Your own reaction can still differ.

Yes — fragrance is among the most frequent causes of cosmetic contact allergy. A single "fragrance" or "parfum" entry can contain dozens of individual scent compounds, which is why it's often the first ingredient worth checking. Note that "fragrance-free" products can still contain other allergens like preservatives, lanolin, or dyes.

No. Every page here is a research summary of a product's ingredients across 114+ brands — not a diagnosis, a treatment recommendation, or medical advice. If you have a history of skin reactions, patch-test new products and talk to a board-certified allergist or dermatologist about your specific sensitivities.

Apply a small amount to a discreet area — the inner forearm or behind the ear — once or twice a day for about a week before using it on your face. Watch for redness, itching, bumps, or swelling. If your skin stays clear, a reaction to that product is less likely; if it flares, stop and consult a professional.

We review these 197 product pages for the current year and refresh them as brands reformulate. Ingredient lists can change between batches and regions, so always read the label on your actual bottle and treat every verdict here as a research starting point, not the final word.