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revelus dermatology

4401 West Gate Blvd, Ste 120
Austin, TX, 78745
Phone: (512) 815-2559

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allergy patch testing

At Revelus Dermatology in Austin, allergy patch testing helps find out whether something that touches your skin, such as a fragrance, preservative, metal, or topical medication, is causing your rash. Our board-certified dermatologists test 80 common allergens from the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) Core Allergen Series over three short visits in one week. You leave with a list of your allergens and a personalized list of products that are safe to use.

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Pain Level: Minimal

No needles, some itching is normal

Results in 1 Week

Final reading on Friday of your testing week

Purpose

Identifies the allergens behind contact dermatitis

Insurance Coverage

We check your benefits before scheduling

*Information provided here is intended for general, informational purposes only.
Please consult with your provider for detailed and personalized instructions.

the revelus difference

  • trusted

  • inclusive

  • compassionate

  • comprehensive

Revelus Dermatology is a woman-owned practice serving Austin since 2014, led by board-certified dermatologists Dr. Blakely Richardson and Dr. Sital Patel. Our care has earned a 4.8 star rating across more than 2,300 Google reviews.

Every skin, every concern, every individual. We provide dermatologic care across the full range of skin types and conditions, and Spanish-speaking team members are available to help support patients during visits.

Beyond clinical care, we prioritize the human connection. We listen, explain your options clearly, and stay with you through diagnosis and treatment. Same-week appointments are often available when you need to be seen sooner.

Our care is grounded in dermatologic science, not trends. We provide medical and surgical dermatology in one South Austin location, including skin cancer screening through Mohs surgery, so most patients do not need a referral to an outside specialist.

benefits of patch testing

benefits of patch testing

Patch testing gives you a clear answer about what your skin is reacting to. Instead of guessing which product is to blame, you get a confirmed list of your allergens and practical guidance on what to avoid. That makes it easier to choose products with confidence and helps prevent future flares.

key benefits:

  • Identifies the specific allergens behind your rash
  • Tests 80 common allergens found in everyday products
  • Includes a personalized list of products that are safe for you to use
  • Helps prevent future flares by showing you what to avoid
  • Cuts down on trial and error with skin care and household products
  • No needles or shots
Allergy patch test panels placed on a patient’s upper back at Revelus Dermatology in Austin

trustworthy + principled care

Medical dermatology works best when care is consistent, thoughtful, and grounded in trust. Our approach prioritizes patient education, evidence-based treatment, and continuity of care over time.

what to expect*

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preparation

If you and your provider decide patch testing is right for you, our team checks your insurance benefits and costs, then calls you to schedule your testing week. Testing takes three visits of about 20 minutes each, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of the same week. We do not schedule testing during a week with a holiday on any of those days.

Some medicines, including steroids, can affect results and may need to be paused beforehand. Your provider will also tell you if you need to stop a daily antihistamine. Avoid sun and tanning on your back for 2 to 4 weeks before testing. Once the patches are placed on Monday, your back must stay dry until after your Friday visit, so plan your week around that. You will receive full instructions before your testing week.

procedure

On Monday, a medical assistant places 80 small allergen patches on your upper and mid back and marks the skin. Your provider stops in briefly to answer questions.

On Wednesday, the patches are removed, the markings are touched up, and early results are recorded and photographed.

Some reactions take extra time to appear, so your provider does the final reading on Friday.

aftercare

Itching on your back during the testing week is normal. Cool packs can help, but nothing wet should touch your back, and avoid scratching. Skip heavy exercise and sweating until after your Friday visit. If a patch comes loose, reinforce it with tape, leave it in place, and call us.

results + next steps

On Friday, you receive a detailed list of your allergens with information about each one. Your results are also used to create a personalized list of safe products from the ACDS database, covering everything from makeup to household products. You can print the list or open it on your phone.

Check your list whenever you shop for or use a new product or topical medication. Following it closely usually reduces or eliminates future flares.

Some reactions appear 7 to 10 days after the patches are placed. If you notice one, send a photo through Klara or call us at (512) 815-2559. A follow-up visit is usually scheduled 2 to 3 months after testing.

*Information provided here is intended for general informational purposes only.
Please consult with your provider for detailed and personalized instructions.

common patch testing questions

FAQ
how much does patch testing cost?

Patch testing is usually billed to insurance, and coverage varies by plan. Before scheduling your testing week, our team checks your benefits and lets you know your estimated cost.

can a dermatologist do allergy testing?

Yes. Dermatologists commonly perform patch testing because it checks for allergies to things that touch your skin. It is different from the prick or blood tests allergists use for food, pollen, and other allergies, and it cannot diagnose food allergies. At Revelus, patch testing is performed by our board-certified dermatologists.

what is patch testing?

Patch testing finds out whether something that touches your skin is causing an allergic rash, known as allergic contact dermatitis. Small amounts of common allergens are placed on your back to see which ones your skin reacts to.

which allergens does patch testing check for?

We test 80 common allergens from the American Contact Dermatitis Society (ACDS) Core Allergen Series. These include metals like nickel, fragrances, preservatives like parabens, and ingredients in topical medications like neomycin. We do not test products you bring from home.

how is patch testing done?

Testing takes three visits of about 20 minutes each, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday of the same week. The patches go on Monday, come off Wednesday, and your provider does the final reading Friday.

does patch testing hurt?

No. There are no needles or shots. Itching on your back during the testing week is common and normal.

what are the side effects of patch testing?

Side effects are usually mild, such as itching or redness where a reaction occurs. Some people notice a temporary flare of their rash. Stronger reactions, like blistering, are uncommon.

do I need to stop any medications before patch testing?

Some medicines, including oral steroids, steroid injections, and topical steroids, can affect results and need to be paused beforehand. Your provider will tell you if you need to stop a daily antihistamine. You will receive full instructions before your testing week.

can I shower during patch testing?

You can wash the rest of your body, but your back must stay completely dry from Monday until after your Friday visit, even after the patches come off. The markings need to stay in place for the final reading.

can I do patch testing while pregnant?

Patch testing is postponed during pregnancy. If you become pregnant before your testing week, call us as soon as you know and we will reschedule. Changes made with less than 24 business hours’ notice are subject to our standard cancellation fee.

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the revelus commitment

Revelus Dermatology logo representing the practice’s brand identity
safety

We adhere to the highest medical standards, ensuring that each treatment is delivered with precision and care, exceeding expectations.

focus

Our commitment is to you. We take the time to understand your unique needs, providing personalized, patient-centered care that’s as thoughtful as it is effective.

experience

With years of trusted medical care, our team delivers precise, thorough treatments tailored to your health needs, ensuring you receive the highest standard of care every time.