Having sensitive skin, you are all too aware of the fight: use the wrong product and the next time you find yourself with redness, itching, or blemishes. Although all people react differently to different skin types, some products contain irritants that have been known to cause skin irritation. Regrettably, most of these continue to feature in the daily skincare and makeup items.
At MakeupLabs.co.uk, we are of the opinion that beauty must be comfortable, but not painful. Eight typical skin and cosmetic ingredients that you should steer clear of in order to safeguard your skin barrier and prevent unwarranted exacerbations made our list.
Fragrance (Parfum)
Why it is bad: Artificial fragrance is among the most frequent provoking factors of skin irritation and allergies. Even the unscented products can harbour masking fragrances which are harsh.
Alternative: Use fragrance-free labelled products or products that have a natural scent made out of mild botanicals such as chamomile or aloe vera.
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Alcohol (Denatured Alcohol / SD Alcohol)
Why it is an issue: Although certain alcohols (such as fatty alcohols) are lightweight, denatured alcohol or SD alcohol is often utilised to achieve a lightweight formula. It is a shame though as it causes the skin barrier to be dry and inflamed as it removes moisture.
Better alternative: Substitute with glycerin, hyaluronic acid, or aloe vera hydrating bases.
Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate / SLS, Sodium Laureth Sulfate / SLES)
The reason it is an issue: Sulphates are severe detergents, and they are often found in foaming cleansers, shampoos, and body washes continuing to strip natural oils and interfere with the pH balance of your skin. This may cause dryness and redness and irritation.
Better alternative: Select the use of sulfate free cleansers using mild surfactants such as coco-glucoside or decyl glucoside.
Bergamot (High Concentration)
Why it turns out to be an issue: Essential oils such as lavender, citrus, or peppermint may be very irritating to delicate skin even when sold as being natural. They can bring about redness, stings or even allergic reactions.
Better alternative: Find products that have been made using calming plant extracts (such as the green tea, chamomile or calendula) over those that are made using concentrated essential oils.
Parabens
So, what is the problem with it? Parabens are the preservatives that are widely used to increase the shelf life of skincare and cosmetics. Para-benz are also controversial because some individuals with sensitive skin develop contact dermatitis, and their safety in the long-duration is of concern.
Better alternative: Select paraben free products which contain other preservatives such as phenoxyethanol or sodium benzoate.
Synthetic Dyes
Why it is an issue Artificial colouring agents, also referred to as FD&C or D&C, with the colour and colour number following (e.g., Red 40, Yellow 5) may be irritating and may trigger an allergic reaction in sensitive types of skin.
Better alternative: Use a product that is not dye-added, or is a dye that has been added in a more natural manner such as minerals or fruit extract.
Important Acids (Strong Concentrations of AHAs/BHAs)
Why it’s an issue: Acids such as glycolic acid, lactic acid and salicylic acid are very good exfoliants, however when used in high concentrations they might be too harsh to the sensitive skin. Excessive use causes redness, stinging and dry broken skin microstructure.
Better alternative: In case you prefer exfoliation that is not harsh to look after the delicate skin, seek PHA (polyhydroxy acids) or low-percentage lactic acid.
Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
Reasons why it is a problem: DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, or quaternium-15 are ingredients that release formaldehyde gradually to preserve products. These are powerful irritants and may lead to allergic reactions particularly on sensitive skin.
Better alternative: Find products with no formaldehyde and be careful with the labels. This is boasted on the packaging of many clean beauty brands.
Final Thoughts
Sensitive skin will require you to be your own skincare detective. Not using the harsh ingredients such as fragrance, sulfates, parabens, and some preservatives will allow you to significantly decrease the chances of irritation and flare-ups.
When in doubt, always:
Patch test new products prior to complete utilization.
Select the least ingredient formulas.
Focus on hydrating and calming down ingredients such as ceramides, aloe vera, and hyaluronic acid.
Here at MakeupLabs.co.uk, we are here to show you the way to beauty products that not only are gorgeous, but are also soft and safe to your skin. The reason is that all the beauty is greatest when your skin is happy and healthy.
