Beauty products can boost your confidence and make you feel like you rule the world. On the other hand, it could also cause an allergic reaction including skin irritation and adversely, cause a drop in your confidence and an increase in feeling miserable.

A 2010 study found that more than one third of people have had an allergic reaction to cosmetic ingredients at least once. Swelling, itching, a burning or stinging feeling and blisters are some of the signs of your skin’s reaction to beauty products. The symptoms could appear at any time, sometimes right after you apply it or it could be after years of using the same product.

Some products are more commonly associated with skin allergies and these are the ones you should watch out for. They include bath soaps, antiperspirants, eye makeup, nail polish, nail extension glue, hair dyes, sunscreen and long wearing lip-stains.

While every skin’s reaction towards a product may differ, there are basic ways to stay safe. Here’s how to be extra careful :

• Doing a patch test before using any product. Apply the product on a small area of your skin and wait for 48 hours. Watch out for any skin reactions.
• Do not fall for terms such as “hypoallergenic” or “dermatologist tested” as there is no promise that the product will react well on your skin.
• Opt for products with fewer ingredients as it reduces the chances of a skin reaction to a cosmetic ingredient.