What "Hypoallergenic" really means

Exactly like the title states, what does Hypoallergenic mean? 

Like tons of people across the world, I am one who suffers from irritants or mild allergies to certain things.
Some people are allergic to cats (dander) or other animals.
Some are allergic to peanuts or nuts.
Some are allergic to perfumes, dyes, and many other things.

Like some people, I personally am allergic to perfumes and some dyes.
I got to wondering, why am I and not someone else?
Unfortunately, our bodies do WEIRD things, and sometimes, that's just the way mother nature dished out "life" to us.
People deal with allergies, and luckily with all of the medical research and studies, scientists and medical professionals are finding how some allergies are caused and are finding remedies.

And as I sit an patiently wait to know the worlds answers of allergies,
it got me thinking....
What does hypoallergenic mean?

The term Hypoallergenic to me, would represent a product that is gentle to consumers, that any consumers will not get an allergy to allergic irritation or flare up. Making the product versatile to virtually anyone. People who may be allergic to specific ingredients in the products, known to cause allergies or sensitivities, would not be in the products. The ingredients would be FREE of ingredients, that are common allergic or sensitive ingredients to populations, including skin irritants (perfumes, dyes, detergents, etc.), common allergic ingredients (peanuts, soy, etc.), and more.

I've gone into a CVS, walgreens, and beauty supplies, and other stores that carry a wide variety of products, which some have the label "hypoallergenic."
As an example, Johnson & Johnson's Baby Shampoo is oil free and "hypoallergenic."

But what does Hypoallergenic really mean?
What is the real definition?

Well, according to the FDA, the term Hypoallergenic, doesn't really exist. 

From the FDA website, the technical definition of

"Hypoallergenic Cosmetics

There are no Federal standards or definitions that govern the use of the term "hypoallergenic." The term means whatever a particular company wants it to mean. Manufacturers of cosmetics labeled as hypoallergenic are not required to submit substantiation of their hypoallergenicity claims to FDA.
The term "hypoallergenic" may have considerable market value in promoting cosmetic products to consumers on a retail basis, but dermatologists say it has very little meaning.
October 18, 2000 The information above is current and is updated only as needed."
The Link to the FDA and more info, can be found here:
http://www.fda.gov/Cosmetics/Labeling/Claims/ucm2005203.htm

A bit terrifiying don't you think?

In one aspect, I am sure the FDA had no choice, but to say there is no such things, because people can be allergic to anything.
Some people are allergic to the sun and UV light.
Some people are allergic to water of all things.

I am sure it's possible to say or label anything "hypoallergenic."

But if that's the case,
then why even have a term?
To get a second term or definition from another source, I went to Google.
I almost wished I hadn't. 

According to Google, the term Hypoallergenic means:

" Hypoallergenic, meaning "below normal" or "slightly" allergenic, was a term first used in a cosmetics campaign in 1953. It is used to describe items (especially cosmetics and textiles) that cause or are claimed to cause fewer allergic reactions."

What I got from that was: "fewer allergic reactions."

I find that these definitions disturbing, and lacking any true meaning to the work "hypo allergenic."
I guess it could be worse.....It could have been non-allergenic.

But you don't see non-allergenic being used. 

Beware of products, read ingredients, and know your body. If you have an allergy, sensitivity or reaction to anything, consult your doctor. With consulting you doctor or medical, they should also be able to recommend or refer specific products or alternatives, or tell you what to avoid. Knowledge is power........which is priceless for your health, mind, and body. 
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