Clinical trials: Hypo-allergenic skin testing

Hypo-allergenic is a word that loosely means a decreased tendency to cause allergies. Although this term lacks a formal medical definition, increased public interest has deemed it necessary for us to establish whether or not Bio-Oil is in fact hypo-allergenic.

To this end, International Research Services was commissioned to conduct hypo-allergenic trials on Bio-Oil in August 2006.

Methodology
56 subjects were tested using the RIPT (Repeat Insult Patch Test) method over a 4-week period. The RIPT method involves a 4-week induction or insult period, with ten patch applications and readings, followed by a 2-week rest period.

Thereafter, there is a 5-day challenge period where the patch is applied once again and the reactions evaluated to determine sensitization. The challenge period involves product application, removal and evaluation after 48 and 96 hours.

A dermatologist is present during the baseline and final evaluations.