Allergies to cosmetics: the action plan to avoid them

Understanding cosmetic allergies

What are cosmetic allergies?

A cosmetic allergy occurs when the immune system overreacts to a substance (called an allergen) contained in a skincare or beauty product. Unlike simple irritation, allergy involves a specific immune reaction: the body recognizes an ingredient as a threat and releases inflammatory mediators that cause visible symptoms.

The most common symptoms in case of cosmetic allergies 

• Skin redness, red patches, itching, burning;

• Localized swelling due to inflammatory reaction (eyelids, lips…);

• Hypersensitivity ;

• Skin eruptions: small pimples or eczema;

• Dryness and peeling;

• Persistent tightness sensation.

These symptoms sometimes appear immediately after application but can also occur several hours or days later, making it more difficult to identify the culprit.

 

The most frequently implicated ingredients

Many components can cause an allergic reaction. Some are natural, others synthetic. The most common are:

Preservatives

This category includes parabens, phenoxyethanol, formaldehyde and its derivatives (DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15…). They are used to prevent bacterial growth but can be irritating for hypersensitive skin.

Perfumes and essential oils

Fragrances are one of the main causes of allergy and inflammation. Even natural ones, some essential oils (like lavender, lemon, or cinnamon) can cause reactions in sensitive skin.

Dyes and pigments

Some azo dyes or metal oxides can be allergenic, especially in makeup.

Chemical sunscreens

Molecules like oxybenzone can trigger photoallergic reactions, especially under sunlight.

Surfactants

They are present in cleansing products (shampoos, shower gels, makeup removers). Some, like Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), are too harsh for fragile skin.

How to identify the allergen responsible?

Step 1: carefully read the INCI list

The INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) lists all the ingredients present in a product. Learning to decipher these labels is essential: the longer and more complex the list, the higher the potential allergy risk.

 

To help you in this approach, and choose gentle products that do not irritate the skin, and whose composition is good for your health, you can turn to cosmetic analysis applications.

Step 2: perform a skin test

Before applying a new product to the face or body, perform a test on a small area, for example behind the ear or on the wrist. Wait 24 to 48 hours to check for the absence of inflammatory reaction or swelling.

 

Step 3: seek help from a dermatologist or allergist

If reactions persist, a specialist can perform patch tests to precisely identify the substance(s) responsible for your allergies and irritations.

4 good habits to prevent cosmetic allergies

Tip #1: favor short formulas

Choosing products with a short and clear composition, without unnecessary ingredients, is the first step. The fewer components in your cosmetic care, the lower the risk of reaction.

Tip #2: favor dermatologically tested brands

Products designed under dermatological control and subjected to hypoallergenic tests are safer for sensitive skin.

Tip #3: adopt a minimalist routine

Layering several different treatments increases the risk of cross-reactions between ingredients. To avoid allergenic substances, it is better to adopt a simple and consistent routine that you follow every day:

• Cleanse your skin with a gentle purifying face gel;
• Apply a soothing face cream;
• Apply an eye contour gel to care for this part of the face where the skin is thin and sensitive.

The simpler your routine, the more protected your skin is.

Tip #4: monitor the expiration date

Expired or poorly stored products can degrade and release irritating substances. Always close your bottles tightly and store them away from heat.

The Grangettes Switzerland brand to avoid cosmetic allergies

In the face of the rise in skin allergies, designing safe cosmetics for everyone, including pregnant women and children, is an essential challenge.

A philosophy centered on safety and purity

At Grangettes Switzerland, we have built our reputation on the quality of our cosmetic formulas: each formulation is developed with a requirement for safety, efficacy, and transparency. Our goal is clear: to offer you allergen-free cosmetics, to preserve skin health, even the most sensitive, while providing a refined sensory experience.

Pure and clinically tested formulas

At Grangettes, reliable and conscientious design is guaranteed by continuously improved formulas according to the latest scientific standards. To care for your skin's health, we focus on:

• The absence of parabens, silicones, sulfates, colorants, PEGs, endocrine disruptors;
  

• Clinically proven maximum tolerance;

• Ingredients respectful of both the skin and the environment.

Thus, each formula is designed to offer the right balance between efficacy and safety.

Swiss expertise at the service of trust

Switzerland is globally recognized for its rigor in cosmetic and pharmaceutical research. Grangettes Switzerland continues this tradition with a vision focused on transparency, ethics, and quality.

 

Choosing Grangettes Switzerland means opting for:

• A total traceability of ingredients;

• A "clean" philosophy where every component has a purpose;

• A high-end skincare experience that is safe and respectful of the skin

For those who wish to avoid allergies while maintaining a refined and effective skincare routine, Grangettes Switzerland is a trusted ally.