Adverse effects following the use of a cosmetic product: what to do?

Do you experience tingling, itching, or a burning sensation just after applying a cosmetic product? It is likely that you are experiencing a irritative reaction, that is, a reaction due to the direct contact between the substance and your skin, without your immune system being activated. In this case, the first instinct should be to immediately and thoroughly rinse the affected area. For this, preferably use cold water. In addition to helping to remove all traces of the cosmetic product, it also has soothing effects.

Rapidly and thoroughly rinsing the skin immediately after contact with the cosmetic can minimise exposure to the irritant agent, thereby reducing the risk of exacerbating symptoms. This action also interrupts the ongoing reaction and provides immediate relief to the affected skin. Once the area is fully rinsed, gently dry it with a clean, soft towel, without rubbing to avoid further irritating the skin.

Have you recently changed your skincare routine and noticed a day or two later that your skin is showing signs of redness, dry patches, or even small pimples? It's possible that your skin may not be tolerating one or more ingredients present in one of these new products. To confirm this and identify the product or products causing your skin reaction, we advise you to revert to the simplest skincare routine possible and, in parallel, to test each product you suspect. To do this, apply a small amount of a product to the inside of your elbow or wrist, wait 24 to 48 hours, and observe your skin's tolerance. Repeat this process with each suspected cosmetic to identify the culprit. In the future, it would be advisable to avoid using it.

Tip : It is beneficial to test your cosmetics in advance to minimise the risk of skin reactions.

Once a skin reaction has occurred, it is advisable to use gentle cosmetics to soothe the skin. If you have a choice, opt for fragrance-free products, which are less likely to further sensitise weakened skin. In the case of small blemishes, revert to a simple routine and exclude the offending cosmetic. The imperfections should disappear on their own within a few days. If your reaction resembles irritation, creams containing glycerine or ceramides, active ingredients that help restore the integrity of the skin barrier and the hydrolipidic film while minimising water loss, are recommended.

Some natural ingredients can also act in support to soothe the skin and gradually reduce redness and itching. Notably, aloe vera, oatmeal, and chamomile, whose anti-inflammatory and calming properties have been highlighted in numerous studies. The mechanisms of action involved differ somewhat from one ingredient to another. For example, aloe vera inhibits the release of several interleukins, pro-inflammatory cytokines, while oatmeal reduces the activity of cyclooxygenase, an enzyme catalysing the production of inflammation mediators.

Note : It is not recommended to introduce new cosmetics when the skin has just undergone a skin reaction. In this situation, it is better to turn to the soothing creams that you are accustomed to using. It is not, of course, imperative that your skincare products contain the active ingredients mentioned above to be effective, these are merely examples among others of effective ingredients in case of irritations.

In the event of a serious adverse effect (infection, widespread contact dermatitis, chemical burn...), persistent or causing significant discomfort, it is crucial to seek help from a healthcare professional. A visit to a dermatologist or a general practitioner will allow you to assess the situation in depth and the professional will be able to suggest a suitable treatment, such as creams based on corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, antihistamines to control allergic reactions, or other specific medications if necessary. Consulting a doctor also allows you to receive personalised advice on products to avoid and care suitable for your skin type.

If you are unable to secure a prompt appointment with a general practitioner or a dermatologist, seek advice from your pharmacist or go directly to the emergency department if your reaction is severe.

If you identify a cosmetic product as the cause of your adverse effects, it is advisable to inform the manufacturer. This action is part of the process of cosmetovigilance which contributes to both improving the safety of all consumers and optimising the cosmetic products available on the market. By reporting an adverse effect, users assist manufacturers in understanding the undesirable reactions related to the use of their products and in adjusting their formulas or usage recommendations accordingly.

Furthermore, reporting an adverse effect can also enable the consumer to receive advice on better managing the skin discomfort encountered. Manufacturers can provide specific recommendations on how to soothe reactions and prevent their recurrence. They can also suggest more suitable alternatives for the user's skin type and sensitivity. By informing manufacturers, consumers actively participate in a cycle aimed at the continuous improvement of the quality and safety of cosmetic products.

• KOZLIK J. & al. Allergy to chosen cosmetic ingredients. Progress in Dermatology and Allergology (2013).

• DE DONNO A. & al. Skin safety and health prevention: an overview of chemicals in cosmetic products. Journal of Preventive Medicine and Hygiene (2019).

• ANSM - Regulation pertaining to cosmetics (2021).

• Regulation (EC) No 1545/2023 of the European Parliament and Council.