Finding products that moisturize and nourish skin without causing any adverse reaction can be a struggle for those who suffer from dry skin. Several ingredients in makeup and skincare products should be avoided for those with dry skin as they can cause irritation, inflammation, breakouts, or other damage to the skin barrier. In addition, some ingredients are harsh to your skin and bad for your overall health. Harsh, cold weather can zap moisture from your skin. Dry skin can make you feel even worse about yourself as it is very noticeable and looks duller than normal. With winter setting in, now is the right time to review what we put on our bodies and how it affects the health of our skin.
Beauty brands market many products that claim to make our bodies look smoother and healthier, but those claims are false if they contain harmful ingredients. Some ingredients commonly used damage the lipid barrier of the top layer of your skin (the Stratum Corneum), which causes loss of hydration, leading to dryness and roughness. I have listed down eight such ingredients which you should avoid if you have dry skin:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
SLS can also cause skin dryness, irritation, and sensitivity. If you have dry skin, it is best to avoid products with SLS to protect your delicate skin.
Parabens
Parabens are a sort of preservative used in many beauty products. Unfortunately, those with dry skin can irritate and exacerbate the issue.
Alcohol
People with dry skin should avoid alcohol in beauty products, as it can exacerbate the issue. Alcohol is a known drying agent and can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to more dryness.
Glycolic acid
You should avoid glycolic acid in beauty products if you have dry skin. Glycolic acid is not beneficial for people with dry skin.
For one thing, glycolic acid can disrupt the lipid barrier in the skin that keeps moisture in. When this barrier has been disrupted, moisture can escape from the body and lead to dryness.
Secondly, glycolic acid may be too irritating for people who already have dry skin. It can cause the skin to become red, itchy, and irritated.
Final Words It is essential to be aware of these ingredients and to read the labels before purchasing any beauty products. Then, look for natural and organic alternatives which will not only be gentler on your skin but will also be better for the environment.
