Ingredients to look for
- Glycerin
- Hyaluronic acid and ceramides
- L-Ascorbic acid (vitamin C) (Vitamin C)
- Vitamin C, specifically l-ascorbic acid, is an antioxidant that acts to counteract UV-induced damage and boost collagen formation.
- Tocopherol (Vitamin E) (Vitamin E)
- Retinol
- Niacinamide (vitamin B3) (Vitamin B3)
Avoiding Ingredients
- Fragrance/parfum
Added perfumes have a high likelihood of triggering skin allergies and irritation, so avoid them if you have sensitive skin.
- Sulfates
Sulfates are cleaning chemicals that are frequently found in body washes and shampoo. They deplete the natural oil in the hair and skin, causing discomfort.
- Parabens
Parabens are often used as a chemical preservative in items to prevent bacterial growth. They’re known as estrogen mimickers, according to Dr. David and other industry experts, and they can be dangerous over time by disrupting hormonal balance. Both Dr. David and Dr. Green warn that this can be particularly dangerous for young children and women at risk of breast cancer.
- Formaldehyde, as well as formaldehyde releasers
Formaldehyde is no longer commonly shown in ingredient lists because it is a proven carcinogen. However, Dr. David says that it is frequently replaced with substances with various names (quanterium-15, DMDM hydantoin, diazolinge urea, imidazolidinge urea) that release formaldehyde over time and work as preservatives. According to Dr. David, it hasn’t been shown whether or not these compounds are hazardous in this capacity, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for them as potential allergies.
Natural may not always imply superior.
Although seeing familiar words in the ingredients list can be reassuring, it does not always imply the safest path to choose. Dr. David, for example, notes that poison ivy is a natural oil, but it’s not one you want to massage all over your skin. “I see patients come in fairly frequently with responses to natural essential oils,” Dr. David adds. “It’s one of those things where everyone is unique and you need to do what’s best for yourself specifically.”
She also warns that seeing the labels natural and organic on a product label is sometimes just a marketing ploy. Because those phrases are not regulated and have no industry norms, they can make bogus claims. Furthermore, a product may be branded as natural if only one or two of the substances on the list are natural.