Cosmetics and beauty companies are releasing Argan Oil infused skin and hair care products almost every day. With so many new Argan-based products coming out, you may be tempted to replace your current hair or skin care staple for something that promises more.

The curiosity to try new products has a good and a bad side. The good side is you’re willing to try new things for the sake of beauty. In the process, you may discover a new favorite or a better product. The bad side is the newness of the formulas used in these “breakthrough” products may not always be good for your skin or hair. Using them may result to rashes, irritation, and infection.

When trying out breakthrough products or planning to apply a product that you haven’t tried before, keep in mind important precautions to ensure safety. Here they are:

Do a Patch Test

Possible skin irritation may occur especially for sensitive skin. To determine your skin’s sensitivity to a new product, you must undergo patch testing. To do a patch test, follow these simple steps:

1. Wash the area for testing. Choose a concealed spot that is close to the intended area of application. Examples: for whole body application – inside of the elbow or wrist; for facial application – behind the ear or under the jaw.
2. Rub an ample amount of the product on the test spot. A diameter of 1 inch is enough to see a reaction. You can use a cotton swab or a cotton ball when dealing with liquid products.
3. Monitor the area for 24 hours. You may use a bandage to cover the area if necessary.

Here’s what you need to watch out for to determine the results of your patch test:

• If there are no adverse effects on your skin after the duration of testing, you can conclude that you are not sensitive to the product. You can then proceed and use it. Negative effects may include redness, itchiness, or irritation.
• If you experience dizziness, nausea, headache, or difficulty in breathing, wash the area immediately. Try to run a patch test again the following day. If these symptoms persist, stop using the product. You may be sensitive or allergic to it.
• If negative reactions occur, wash the area and discontinue use immediately. Adverse reactions include redness, itchiness, burning, and rashes.

When using Argan oil on skin for example, you can try applying 1-2 drops of the oil on your wrist. Learn more about the benefits of using Argan oil for skin here.

Check the Label

Checking the label of any product is crucial especially when you are unfamiliar with the product. See if there are ingredients listed that you know you are sensitive or allergic to. Some hair care products contain toxic chemicals such as sodium laureth sulfate and parabens.

Looking at the label helps you understand the product better. You can find information on the type and quality of the product. For example, when looking for Argan oil for hair care, you need to make sure you’re getting a pure organic cold pressed Argan oil. It should come with a USDA seal stamped on the label. Most product labels have usage instructions, suggestions, and special precautions. Read them to ensure safe and effective use.

Learn more about Argan oil for hair in this article from Argan Oil Product Review

Consult a Medical Professional

Does this new product suit you? If in doubt, the best way to do is consult a doctor.

When talking to a doctor or a medical professional, report all medical-related conditions you might have. Tell them if you have allergies or any medical condition that could affect your use of the product. If you are taking any prescription drugs or other products related to your hair issue, tell them too. In the end, it’s safer to seek advice from someone who is an expert.

These simple precautions help protect you from possible adverse reactions your body might have to the new product. Use them as your guide to ensure that you find the best new product that suits your needs.

Curious about a particular Argan oil or Argan oil product? Read about our reviews and find out which one fits you best.