Products that do more harm than good for your skin

KEY STORY

• With the right skincare products and techniques, you can get flawless and youthful skin. But as much as it is important to know what you should put on your skin, it’s equally important to be aware of the products that are a big no-no for skincare lovers, especially the ones who have sensitive skin.

• These days it’s easy to feel bamboozled when it comes to choosing the right skincare products. There is an influx of information and contradicting advice that makes it hard to choose the right product. Which is why one must be extra careful before making the buying decision and consult a few purchase guides.

• There are some toxic ingredients, commonly found in skincare products, that leave your skin feeling irritated. Instead of giving you a glow or an improved complexion, it does the opposite. And people have no choice but to visit a dermatologist and spend money on treatments and medication. All of this can be avoided if you stay away from harmful and toxic skincare ingredients and products that have those ingredients. You can replace them with products that are paraben-free, fragrance-free and non-comedogenic.

Products that do more harm than good for your skin

Alcohol

Alcohol may be good for sterilising purposes as it effectively dissolves bacteria and skin cells, however, it must not be in your skincare products as it has a drying effect on the skin and can damage it too. So while purchasing a toner or astringent, make sure that it doesn’t contain isopropyl alcohol.

Fragrance

Dermatologists always root for fragrance-free skincare as fragrance can lead to collagen breakdown and make your skin feel irritated. It can also impair the skin’s ability to renew and plump itself which is why one must buy fragrance-free skincare products. So, if you are thinking that your fragranced toner or moisturiser is doing you any good, you are wrong about it.

Paraben

Paraben is one of the most controversial preservatives that have been liked to multiple skin problems. And seeing the new studies and researches, more companies and brands are coming up with paraben-free products. Paraben’s common names that you must look on the ingredient chart are methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, etc. Anything with the suffix paraben comes under this category.

Mineral oil

Mineral oil might seem perfectly fine as a skincare ingredient but for people who have acne-prone skin, this ingredient can bring out the worst version of your skin. It clogs pores and causes breakouts and other skin issues.

Artificial colourants

Artificial colourants can cause irritation. And, the toxins that they leave on your skin greatly damage the skin cells. And it might also clog pores leading to a bad breakout. As they do not improve the effectiveness of the product, there is no functional reason to add artificial colours to skincare or cosmetic products. These days, more brands are coming up with products that don’t have these ingredients.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a controversial skin lightener and it is banned in many countries. But you might find it a bit shocking that it is still present in some skincare and makeup products. People who regularly use products that have this ingredient may experience minor and temporary skin irritation.

More skincare tips:

1. Avoid layering too many products as some ingredients may not work well together

2. Do not over-cleanse your skin and ever scrub your face with a harsh exfoliator

3. Avoid products that have sulphates and emulsifiers

4. If you are suffering from skin issues, consult a dermatologist before starting a new skincare routine.