"Hypoallergenic" Doesn't Mean What You'd Hope

Reassuring word, no rulebook behind it.

"Hypoallergenic" sounds like a guarantee your skin will be safe. It's closer to a suggestion.

No standard behind it

There's no legal definition or required testing for "hypoallergenic" in cosmetics. A company decides its product is less likely to cause reactions — by its own criteria. Two "hypoallergenic" products can have completely different ingredients.

It can still contain triggers

A hypoallergenic label can sit right above fragrance, essential oils, or preservatives that are common irritants. The word on the front doesn't override the list on the back.

The move

If you react to things, skip the buzzword and read the ingredients. Fewer ingredients and no added fragrance is a better predictor of "gentle" than the word "hypoallergenic" ever will be.

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