The skin is the body’s largest organ, and both men and women are willing to spend big bucks to ensure their skin looks great for years to come. However, predatory brands know how to cater to this vanity, and many put worthless or harmful ingredients in their products. Read on to learn which products you should ditch for good (and what to replace them with).
Look at the Ingredient List
Unfortunately, a lot of people think if an ingredient is approved by the FDA, it’s automatically great for their skin. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Items like parabens, oxybenzone, carbon black, phthalates, and petroleum jelly are available in cosmetics even though studies show they can be harmful in even small doses. Other ingredients are put in with no proven benefit, like crushed jewels or metals. Look at the ingredient list and research to figure out what’s exactly in your skincare products then look for alternatives (for example, phenoxyethanol instead of parabens).
Exfoliants
Beloved for removing “dead” skin, exfoliants actually remove your skin’s water barrier, which can cause inflammation, hyperpigmentation and make the skin more infection-prone. If you have dry or oily skin, talk to a dermatologist who can perform an acid peel or microdermabrasion to remove dead skin cells and excess oil.
Peel-Off Masks
Commonly made of charcoal, peel-off masks were extremely popular a few years ago until people started realizing they were also waxing their entire faces in addition to removing skin cells and helpful oils, leaving the skin open to infections as well as causing irritation (like exfoliants). Instead, use a clarifying sheet mask.
Toner
Toners claim a plethora of benefits, ranging from cleansing to moisturizing to increase circulation. Vast scientific claims, like increasing blood flow, are usually ruled out by most people; however, many have included toner for the former benefits. In actuality, toners range from worthless to toxic. Products with high concentrations of alcohol may cause burning, redness or irritation. Instead, look to use a mild cleanser and moisturizer to actually get the benefits toner claims it provides.
Face Wipes
The idea behind face wipes is great. They are fast, convenient, and claim to thoroughly remove makeup. In actuality, they cause friction, tear the skin, give a surface-level cleanse, and can cause (you guessed it) irritation. Instead, look for a mild cleanser and if you really need something easy, use micellar water with a cloth for a quick cleanse after a night out.
Night Cream
Night creams are expensive, providing a thick moisture barrier on the skin. However, they frequently contain harmful ingredients like parabens and fragrances to get them to the consistency you love. Most people actually don’t need the “ultra-moisture” their night cream provides. Instead, users should look for a lighter moisturizer they can use any time of day.
Taking care of your skin can feel like a luxurious experience; however, most people use skincare products that are actually detrimental in the long run. If you’re looking for proper skin care in OKC, schedule a consultation today and say “Hello” to better skin ASAP.
