Be On the Look Out for These Ingredients in Your Skincare Products

When you’re looking to buy new skin care products, you likely search what benefits they offer and read as many reviews as possible. However, it may be that looking at the ingredients doesn’t top your list of priorities. After all, if it works, it works, right? Well, as it turns out, there may be some ingredients in skincare products that you want to avoid, depending upon your skin type. Want to learn more? Below, we’re sharing nine ingredients we think you should take notice of in your skin care products if you have skin sensitivities.

#1. FRAGRANCE

Sure, we love products that smell good, but your skin may not be a fan. If you have sensitive skin, some fragrances used in skin care products may cause skin irritation or even an allergic reaction, per the Cleveland Clinic. Those who have skin conditions such as rosacea may also want to steer clear of products with fragrances, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). If you’re looking for fragrance-free skin care products to add to your routine, turn to our article, L’Oréal Paris' Fragrance-Free Skin Care Products.

#2. PETROLEUM JELLY

Those with oily, acne-prone skin may want to consider non-comedogenic product alternatives that won’t clog pores. According to the Cleveland Clinic, some may experience breakouts from using petroleum jelly on their face.

#3. ALCOHOL

In addition to fragrances, the AAD also states those with skin sensitivity should avoid skincare products that contain alcohol. For a cleanser and makeup remover without alcohol, try adding the L’Oréal Paris Micellar Cleansing Water Complete Cleanser Waterproof - All Skin Types to your daily regimen.

#4. RETINOL

While retinol is known for being one of the holy grail anti-aging ingredients, it may not be the best match for those with sensitive skin. According to the Cleveland Clinic, retinoic acid, a form of retinol, can cause skin irritation and sensitivity to the sun.

#5. SALICYLIC ACID

You may have heard of the benefits salicylic acid has for those with acne, but this ingredient isn’t for everyone. According to the Food & Drug Administration, topical acne ingredients like salicylic acid can cause excessive drying of the skin, especially if you use another topical acne medication at the same time. Reducing application to once a day or every other day may help, but the Cleveland Clinic advises against using skin care products formulated with salicylic acid if you have sensitive skin.

#6. OILS

Some oils can be great options for those with dry skin, but they may not be for those with oily or acne-prone skin. Per the Cleveland Clinic, it’s a good idea to look for products that are oil-free and non-comedogenic, and avoid ingredients such as coconut oil, which can clog your pores.

#7. PARABENS

The Cleveland Clinic states that parabens can cause allergic reactions in some people and clog pores. So, if you have sensitive skin, consider looking for skin care products that are formulated without parabens. Not sure where to start? Here are some of Our Favorite Paraben Free Skin Care Products.

#8. GLYCOLIC ACID

Another raved about ingredient is glycolic acid. However, those with sensitive skin, and in particular, rosacea, may want to skip products formulated with glycolic acid. Per the AAD, this exfoliant may be too harsh.

HOW TO MAKE SURE INGREDIENTS WILL WORK FOR YOUR SKIN

If you’re worried a particular ingredient in your skincare product isn’t suitable for your skin, you can do a skin patch test first. This involves applying a small amount of product in a discreet area before using it all over your skin. This is a good way to determine if your skin will experience a negative reaction and whether you should avoid using the product.   

It’s also wise to consult with a dermatologist to determine which skin care products are right for you, especially if you have specific skin care concerns or a skin type that can be difficult to manage.

Next up: Perhaps you’d like to expand your ingredient knowledge. Here we’ve rounded up 12 Skin Care Ingredients That Are Trending for 2020.