Know What’s in Your Bag: Top Skincare/Makeup Ingredients to Avoid

Posted on 14th August 2023

---

The world of skincare and makeup products is vast and diverse, and it can be overwhelming to navigate the endless aisles and online stores to find what’s best for your skin.

From tinted moisturisers and eyeshadows to tanning drops and cleansers; with so many different products and brands available, it’s essential you’re aware of the ingredients in your cosmetics and skincare products to ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant.

Nobody wants to spend heaps of time and money perfecting the ultimate serum skincare routine only to find that the ingredients in the products are a huge no-no!

Top Ingredients to Avoid

Parabens

Parabens are synthetic preservatives found in a wide array of products, such as makeup, moisturisers, and hair care products. Despite their usefulness in preventing bacterial growth, studies have linked them to potential endocrine disruption. Opt for “paraben-free” products – always!

Sulphates

Sulphates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), are detergents and surfactants commonly found in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes.

They are responsible for creating the lather and foam in these products. Unfortunately, sulphates can strip away the natural oils in your skin, leading to dryness, irritation, and even eczema, so choose sulphate-free products or those with gentler surfactants.

Phthalates

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used as plasticisers and solvents in many personal care products, including nail polishes. They have been linked to hormonal imbalances, reproductive toxicity, and an increased risk of asthma and allergies.

Look for “phthalate-free” labels or natural alternatives like essential oils, which can be found in various brands.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a preservative used in some cosmetics and skincare products to prevent the growth of bacteria. However, it is a known human carcinogen, and exposure can cause skin irritation, allergies, and respiratory issues.

Avoid products containing formaldehyde or its releasers, such as DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15.

Synthetic Fragrances

Synthetic fragrances are often added to skincare and makeup products to create a pleasant scent. Unfortunately, they can cause skin irritation, allergies, and even disrupt hormones.

Look for products labelled as “fragrance-free” or those that use natural fragrances from essential oils.

Healthy Ingredients to Incorporate

Now that you know what to avoid, here are some ingredients to look for when building a healthy skincare and makeup routine:

1. Antioxidants: Vitamins C and E, green tea extract, and resveratrol protect your skin from free radicals and environmental damage.
2. Hyaluronic Acid: A fantastic hydrating ingredient, hyaluronic acid helps retain skin moisture and reduce wrinkles.
3. Niacinamide: Improving skin texture and evening out skin tone, niacinamide can be found in many different products.
4. Ceramides: These lipid molecules help restore the skin’s natural barrier.
5. Peptides: These amino acid chains stimulate collagen production for firmer skin, giving a youthful-looking complexion.

It’s so important you’re continuously aware of the ingredients in your skincare and makeup products. If you’re ever unsure, read the product labels carefully to identify any ingredients that you should steer clear of.

Alternatively, you can do your research online to learn more about the ingredients in specific products. It’s certainly worth taking the extra time and consideration! Your skin will thank you for it.