I have combination skin, which means I have the worst of both worlds. Especially in the winter, my cheeks and the skin around my lips feel tight, irritated, and flaky. This makes me feel uncomfortable and self-conscious, and it affect my performance. That's surely my bottom line!
Ingredients to avoid!
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Alcohol
- Why it is added: Alcohol is used in skincare products as a solvent, preservative, or to create a quick-drying texture.
- Why to avoid: Alcohol can be drying and may strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to increased dryness and potential irritation for individuals with dry skin.
- On label: Look for terms like "ethanol," "denatured alcohol," "isopropyl alcohol," or "alcohol denat" on the ingredient list.
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Fragrances
- Why they are added: Fragrances are used to enhance the scent and sensory experience of skincare products.
- Why to avoid: Fragrances can be irritating and may cause dryness or allergic reactions, particularly for individuals with dry or sensitive skin.
- On label: Look for terms like "fragrance," "parfum," or specific fragrance ingredients listed individually, such as "limonene" or "linalool."
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Synthetic Colorants
- Why they are added: Synthetic colorants are used to enhance the appearance and visual appeal of skincare products.
- Why to avoid: Certain synthetic colorants can potentially irritate and dry out the skin, particularly for those with dry or sensitive skin.
- On label: Look for specific colorants listed, such as "FD&C Red No. 40" or "CI 42090."
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Retinoids
- Why they are added: Retinoids, such as retinol, are added to skincare products for their anti-aging and acne-fighting properties.
- Why to avoid: Retinoids can be drying and may cause increased sensitivity and flakiness, especially when used in higher concentrations, making them less suitable for individuals with dry skin.
- On label: Look for terms like "retinol," "retinyl palmitate," or "tretinoin" on the ingredient list.
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Salicylic Acid
- Why it is added: Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in skincare products for its exfoliating and acne-treating properties.
- Why to avoid: Salicylic acid can be drying and potentially too harsh for individuals with dry skin, leading to increased dryness and irritation.
- On label: Look for "salicylic acid" or "beta-hydroxy acid" on the ingredient list.
