Skincare Ingredients You Should Avoid

Skincare ingredients are constantly evolving, but there are a few that should be avoided due to their overhyped status and potential side effects. Here are the top five ingredients you want to be wary of when looking at skincare products.

Retinol

Retinol is often used in anti-aging products, but it can be too harsh for some skin types and may cause dryness, irritation, redness, and flaking. It can also increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun, so you should use a moisturizer with SPF when using retinol-based products.

Parabens

Parabens are a type of preservative often used in skincare products, but they can trigger allergic reactions in people with sensitive skin. They have also been linked to hormone disruption, which can cause health problems like infertility and cancer.

Fragrance

Synthetic fragrances can cause allergic skin reactions, such as rashes, acne, and hives. They can also be harmful to the environment, and are often made with petrochemicals, which can be damaging to the skin.

Sulfates

Sulfates, such as sodium laureth sulfate, are added to skincare products to make them foam, but they can cause skin irritation and dryness. They may also contain carcinogens, and can be detrimental to the environment.

Alcohols

Alcohols can be drying to the skin and can strip away the skin's natural protective barrier, leaving it susceptible to irritation and sensitivity. Alcohols can also cause premature aging, so you should try to avoid products that contain them. 

Take Away

When looking for skincare products, it's important to check the label and make sure that none of these ingredients are present. You can also look for more natural and organic products, as these tend to be gentler on the skin. By avoiding these overhyped ingredients, you can keep your skin looking its best and stay healthy.