CLEVELAND -- Hypoallergenic is a label claim you see on all sorts of products. Maybe you've even bought one thinking it's better for you. But Troubleshooter Chris Caswell says don't be fooled.

She said you may be surprised to learn that companies don't have to meet any standards at all when they call their products hypoallergenic.

Five On Your Side shows you what to look for.

You might see the claim on makeup, lotion and other toiletries and skin-care products.

While claims that it might not give you a rash could be true, there's no way to be sure, Caswell said. Urvashi Rangan, who studies label claims for the consumers union, said that's because there are no standards defining the term hypoallergenic.

"Years ago, the Food and Drug Administration tried to require that companies who labeled products as hypoallergenic tested them for causing less allergic reactions. But companies fought this and won," Rangan said.

As a result, companies are allowed to use the term and define it anyway they want. So today you'll find the claim on everything from shampoo to deodorant.

"It may have considerable market value, but from a medical viewpoint the term hypoallergenic is completely useless," said Dr. Marvin Lipman, with Consumer Reports.

The FDA does require skin care products to list their ingredients, Caswell said. But some key ones are exempt.

"Fragrances are among the most common irritants. And since they are considered trade secrets, they are not required to be listed on the product," Lipman said.

While some companies said they test to get rid of the irritants in their products, Caswell said it's impossible for the consumer to know which ones.