What does ‘dermatologically tested’ mean?

Antipodes’ nature-sourced skincare is made with clean, toxin-free natural ingredients, so we consider the range suitable for most if not all skin types. But for those with sensitive skin, dermatological testing is the gold standard: the independent verification is evidence that a product has not demonstrated a potential for irritation or sensitivity, and is gentle enough not to irritate sensitive skin.

Sensitive skin can be genetic, but it can also develop due to environment factors such as weather or pollution, chemical-laden skincare, or over-zealous cleansing and exfoliation. So what does ‘dermatologically tested’ mean when it comes to skincare, and how can it help?

Dermatological testing involves a robust clinical trial, investigating a product’s potential to cause irritation or sensitisation. The trial is independent and is carried out on approximately 50 volunteers, with repeated exposure to the product for a number of weeks.

Dermatological testing requires repeated patch testing – a small amount of product is applied to skin, covered, and removed after 24 hours. This takes place 10 times per person, over the course of several weeks, and any skin reaction is noted. To receive dermatological approval for sensitive skin, no patch tests must result in any skin reaction.

Antipodes has three formulations that were created with sensitive skin in mind. Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser & Makeup Remover, Flora Probiotic Skin-Rescue Hyaluronic Mask and Ananda H₂O Ultra-Hydrating Calming Mist are dermatologically approved.

All three products were tested in a laboratory in New York and passed with flying colours – they did not demonstrate a potential for inducing irritation or sensitisation.

Our plant-powered regime for sensitive skin gently but effectively helps to restore your skin back to optimal health.

Grace Gentle Cream Cleanser & Makeup Remover calms and soothes the skin as it cleanses. Avocado oil provides nourishment, while and antioxidant extract Vinanza® Oxifend, made from the skins of New Zealand-grown pinot noir red grapes, has anti-inflammatory properties.

Flora Probiotic Skin-Rescue Hyaluronic Mask is a luxuriously creamy skin-recovery treatment to de-stress and freshen skin that is sensitive or inflamed, with the innovative probiotic Kalibiome Sensitive, and a refreshing dose of plant hyaluronic acid. Twice weekly, smooth a generous amount over your cleansed face and neck, then rinse off after 15 minutes.

Ananda H₂O Ultra-Hydrating Calming Mist brings bliss to stressed skin with this ultra-hydrating, dermatologically approved organic toner featuring premium botanical extracts. Omega and antioxidant-rich raspberry seed helps to keep the skin soft and fresh. Aloe vera and marsh mallow act to soothe irritation, whilst New Zealand native mamaku black fern helps revitalise your visage.

At Antipodes, we use only high-quality, pure plant fragrances. We use essential oils instead of artificial fragrances to create our signature scents, and the concentration of these is extremely low so there are no therapeutic effects on the body and no impact on the skin. Our fragrances are either COSMOS-certified, organic-certified, or 100% natural origin.

Regardless of your skin type or skin concerns, it’s always recommended that you patch test products prior to use.

*Independent laboratory study (New York, 2011, 2021)