The Worst Ingredients for Sensitive Skin
As the co-founder of Eavara, I've dedicated years to understanding skincare and the impact ingredients have on different skin types. Today, I want to discuss a topic close to my heart: sensitive skin.
If you're one of the millions dealing with sensitive skin, you know how hard it is to find products that won't cause irritation, redness, or breakouts.
Let's explore some of the worst ingredients for sensitive skin and chat about some natural alternatives that have worked wonders for our customers.
1. Fragrance
Fragrance is the number one ingredient to avoid if you have sensitive skin. Whether synthetic or natural, fragrances can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Many companies use the term "fragrance" or "parfum" on their ingredient lists, which can represent a cocktail of hundreds of different chemicals.
What makes fragrance so problematic? Well, the exact composition of a fragrance is considered a trade secret, so companies aren't required to disclose the specific ingredients used.
This lack of transparency makes it difficult for those with sensitive skin to identify which ingredient might be causing a reaction.
At Eavara, we believe in full transparency. That's why we never use artificial fragrances in our products. Instead, we harness the natural scents of botanical ingredients.
For instance, the light, refreshing scent in our Ultra Face Moisturizer comes from lavender oil and a blend of other natural ingredients chosen for their gentle, skin-loving nature.
2. Alcohol
Certain types of alcohol are incredibly drying and irritating to sensitive skin. Many skincare products include ingredients like ethanol, denatured alcohol, and isopropyl alcohol as astringents or to help other ingredients penetrate the skin. However, they strip away natural oils, disrupt the skin barrier, and can lead to increased sensitivity over time. Yikes!
Not all alcohols are bad, though. Fatty alcohols like cetyl and stearyl alcohol are beneficial, acting as emollients and thickeners in skincare products.
3. Sulfates
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are surfactants commonly found in cleansers and shampoos. They're responsible for the satisfying lather we often associate with cleanliness. However, they're harsh on sensitive skin, stripping away natural oils and disrupting its delicate pH balance.
In our cleansers, we opt for gentler, plant-based surfactants. We derive one of my favorites (Cocamidopropyl betaine) from coconut oil — a nod to Eavara's Hawaiian roots and a testament to the power of natural ingredients. These alternatives effectively cleanse the skin without causing irritation or dryness.
4. Chemical Sunscreens
While sun protection is crucial for all skin types, chemical sunscreens can be problematic for sensitive skin.
Ingredients like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate absorb UV rays and turn them into heat before releasing them from the body. Unfortunately, this process can trigger irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
At Eavara, we're big advocates of mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays. They're generally better tolerated by sensitive skin and have the added benefit of being reef-safe — an important consideration for us islanders!
5. Retinoids
Many folks love retinoids, which are derived from Vitamin A, for their anti-aging properties. However, daily use may be too harsh for delicate skin. Retinoids increase cell turnover, sometimes leading to redness, peeling, and increased sun sensitivity, especially when you first start using them.
If you're keen on incorporating retinoids into your routine, consider gentler alternatives like bakuchiol. This plant-based ingredient offers similar benefits to retinoids but is gentler on sensitive skin.
You might also try experimenting with a retinoid once or twice a week. If you want to give our Pure Paradise Night Cream a shot, you could start with a patch test in a discreet spot on your face. If you don't experience irritation, begin use just once a week. Gradually build your way up to every-other-day use.
6. Essential Oils
This one might surprise you, given how often essential oils are touted as natural skincare solutions. While essential oils can offer wonderful benefits, they're highly concentrated plant extracts that can irritate sensitive skin. Some of the most common culprits include citrus, peppermint, and lavender oils.
At Eavara, we use essential oils sparingly and always in diluted forms. We also disclose all essential oils used in our products so those with sensitivities can make informed decisions.
7. Synthetic Preservatives
Preservatives prevent bacterial growth in skincare products, but some can irritate sensitive skin. Parabens, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, and methylisothiazolinone are some of the worst offenders.
We use natural ingredients to effectively preserve our products. This minimizes the risk of irritation associated with harsher, synthetic preservatives.
8. Exfoliating Acids
Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) and beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs) are popular for their exfoliating properties but may be too intense for sensitive skin. Ingredients like glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid, while effective for many skin types, can cause stinging, redness, and increased sensitivity.
This hyper-sensitivity might be a side effect of a damaged skin barrier. When your skin barrier is damaged, you're more susceptible to bacteria and other irritants wreaking havoc and making your skin even more sensitive.
9. Synthetic Dyes
Skincare products often use synthetic dyes for aesthetic reasons, but they do not benefit your skin. In fact, they can be a source of irritation and allergic reactions, especially for those with sensitive skin.
At Eavara, we believe natural is beautiful and never use synthetic dyes in our products. Instead, we embrace the natural colors of our ingredients.
10. Petroleum-Derived Ingredients
Petroleum jelly and mineral oil have moisturizing properties but can be problematic for sensitive skin. These occlusive ingredients create a barrier on the skin, potentially leading to clogged pores and irritation.
We prefer plant-based oils and butters that nourish the skin without the potential drawbacks of petroleum-derived ingredients. Ingredients like shea butter, jojoba oil, and coconut oil provide excellent moisturization while allowing the skin to breathe.
Treat Your Sensitive Skin to Eavara
Navigating the skincare world with sensitive skin can feel like walking through a minefield. But armed with knowledge about potentially irritating ingredients, you're better equipped to make informed decisions about the products you use.
Remember, everyone's skin is unique. What irritates one person's skin might be perfectly fine for another. Spot-testing new products before introducing them to your routine is always a good idea.
At Eavara, we're committed to creating products that work in harmony with your skin, not against it. We believe in the power of nature to nurture and heal, drawing inspiration from Hawaii's lush landscapes and rich botanical diversity. We aim to provide effective, gentle skincare that respects the skin's delicate balance.
If you're struggling with sensitive skin, don't lose hope. You can obtain a healthy, glowing complexion with the right ingredients and a careful approach. Aloha, and here's to happy, healthy skin!
*This blog offers health, wellness, fitness and nutritional information and is designated for education purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis and treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your healthcare professional because of something you may have read in this blog. The use of this information is solely at your own risk.
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