What does "hypoallergenic" even mean?

If you're reading this post, then you're likely more careful than the average person about what you put on your skin and in your body. And I'm with you! As a product creator with a passion for natural living, I always strive to ensure I'm using the most natural products possible, ones that are hypoallergenic and less likely to contain harsh chemicals that irritate the skin.

As a way to reassure consumers about the safety of Bona Dea Naturals feminine spray, I had a Repeat Insult Patch Test (RIPT) study conducted on the product to determine whether the product was hypoallergenic. I wanted to be able to let customers know that they can safely use it without worrying about harsh interactions and skin irritation.

But before I report the results, let me explain a little bit more about what an RIPT is and how it works.

Repeat Insult Patch Tests (RIPTs)

RIPTs—also sometimes referred to as Human Repeat Insult Patch Tests (HRIPTs)—are 6-week-long independent studies that gauge the skin-related effects of many products, primarily cosmetics and feminine care products. What's great about this type of testing is that it's conducted on volunteer humans, not animals in a lab, and it includes between 50 and 200 participants for the best possible range of skin types.

The objective third-party study—largely considered the industry standard for determining whether a product creates sensitization, allergic reactions, or irritation after repeated exposure—allows manufacturers to put claims like clinically tested, dermatologist-tested, and hypoallergenic on their products.

For decades, manufacturers have used RIPTs to ensure their products are safe and hypoallergenic, not only for the skin but also for the body as a whole. After all, what goes on the skin eventually gets into the bloodstream, which can affect everything from immune response to hormones.

Determining a product is hypoallergenic

My RIPT was conducted by AMA Laboratories in August 2020. In it, around 50 participants applied Bona Dea Naturals feminine spray for 2 weeks. For the next 2 weeks, they didn't apply the spray. For the last 2 weeks of the study, participants again applied the spray daily. Throughout the study, dermatologists observed and analyzed skin reactions to determine allergy safety.

I'm happy to report that after this rigorous testing process, I can say that Bona Dea Naturals feminine spray is:

• Allergy tested
• Dermatologist tested
• Clinically approved
• Clinically tested
• Non-irritating
• Hypoallergenic

The spray didn't cause irritation on any study participants, so I can safely say that it is mild and will not cause adverse reactions for most people.

You care as much as I do about the safety of the products you use. Now can you be assured that Bona Dea Naturals feminine spray is not only effective but also safe.