Hypoallergenic

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Hypoallergenic refers to items, particularly cosmetics and textiles, that cause or are claimed to cause fewer allergic reactions. Hypoallergenic pets are breeds of pet animals (dogs, cats, etc.) that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in people who are sensitized to the pet species (e.g., in people generally allergic to dogs, a hypoallergenic dog will not cause an allergic reaction or will cause a lesser one).

Definition[edit | edit source]

The term "hypoallergenic" is derived from the Greek word "hypo", which means "below" or "less than normal". It was first used in a cosmetics campaign in 1953. It is a term used to describe items (especially cosmetics and textiles) that cause or are claimed to cause fewer allergic reactions. Hypoallergenic is not a legal or scientific term, but is a term used by the cosmetics and skincare industry to describe a product that has a low potential for causing an allergic reaction.

Hypoallergenic Products[edit | edit source]

Hypoallergenic products are designed to minimize the risk of an allergic reaction. These products are created by avoiding or reducing the use of substances known to cause allergic reactions. These substances can include certain dyes, fragrances, and preservatives.

Hypoallergenic Pets[edit | edit source]

Hypoallergenic pets are breeds of pet animals (dogs, cats, etc.) that are less likely to trigger allergic reactions in people who are sensitized to the pet species. For example, in people generally allergic to dogs, a hypoallergenic dog will not cause an allergic reaction or will cause a lesser one.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Hypoallergenic Resources
Wikipedia
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD