The Top Ingredients to Avoid in Your Skincare Routine

We’re often mindful of what we eat, but what about what we apply to our skin? Just like food, skincare can have an impact on our health and wellbeing. This is why reading labels is just as important for your skincare routine as it is for your diet! Unfortunately, many mainstream skincare products on the market are packed with hidden toxins, harsh chemicals, and a heap load of synthetic ingredients. It’s imperative to know what to avoid and this post will help you make smarter and cleaner skincare choices. Continue reading to learn more about the top ingredients to avoid and why switching to clean beauty is one of the best things you can do for your skin!

1.       Sulfates

Examples: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)

What They Are: Suflates are a group of chemical compounds commonly used in cleaning products and personal care products such as shampoo and body wash. They’re effective at removing dirt and oil and often create a foamy lather when added to water.

Why Avoid: Although sulfates can be effective when cleansing, they can strip hair and skin of their natural oils. When it comes to skin, sulfates can exacerbate conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, leading to further dryness and irritation.

2.       Parabens           

Examples: Methylparaben, Propylparaben, and Butylparaben

What They Are: Parabens are a group of synthetic chemicals commonly used as preservatives in skincare and cosmetics. They’re added to these products to help extend their shelf life and prevent any bacteria or mold growth.

Why Avoid: Parabens are easily absorbed into the skin and are also known as endocrine disruptors, meaning that they can potentially affect the body’s hormonal system. This is turn can increase risks of developing certain cancers and interfere with reproductive health.

3.       Phthalates

Examples: Dibutylphthalate (DBP), Dimethylphthalate (DMP), and Diethylphthalate (DEP)

What They Are: Like parabens, phthalates are a group of synthetic chemicals. However, these chemicals are commonly used to improve texture and absorption in skincare, haircare, cosmetics and other products such as nail polishes.

Why Avoid: Like parabens, phthalates are also known as endocrine disruptors. It’s best to avoid all products that contain these chemicals, particularly those that linger on the skin such as perfumes and lotions.

4.       Denatured Alcohol (also known as Alcohol Denat)

What It Is: Denatured alcohol is commonly used in skincare and cosmetics as a preservative or drying agent, helping products to quickly absorb into the skin.

Why Avoid: Although many products that contain denatured alcohol leave behind a desired matte finish, their drying effect can strip the skin of its natural moisture, leading to irritation and dryness. If your skin is in dire need of hydration, this is one ingredient to certainly avoid!

5.       Synthetic Fragrances

What They Are: In short, synthetic fragrances are artificial fragrances! Unlike natural scents from flowers or fruits, artificial fragrances are composed of chemicals that mimic natural smells or create new ones. Synthetic fragrances are commonly found in skincare, haircare, cosmetics, and household products such as laundry detergents and candles.

Why Avoid: Although they have a pleasant smell, products with synthetic fragrances should be avoided as they can cause allergic reactions and irritate the skin, as well as trigger headaches or trouble breathing if the scent is overwhelming.

6.       Mineral Oil and Petroleum

What They Are: Mineral oil and petroleum are byproducts of crude oil, a natural oil found beneath the earth’s surface. Commonly found in skincare and cosmetics, mineral oil and petroleum act as emollients providing moisture to the skin.

Why Avoid: Although they have nourishing properties, their thick composition can lead to clogged pores and breakouts which is particularly worrisome for those with oily or acne-prone skin.

Beauty without Compromise

Our Skinprovement line and Eminence Organics products are proudly made in Canada, using natural and organic ingredients that are designed to nourish, hydrate, and protect your skin without any harsh chemicals or additives. These clean products provide gentle solutions for various skin concerns and are designed to support your skin’s natural protective barrier. By choosing clean beauty, you’re opting for ingredients that work in harmony with your skin, delivering safe care and effective results.

With tariffs being proposed between Canada and the United States, supporting Canadian businesses has never been more important. When choosing these high-quality Canadian products, you’re not only treating your skin to the best but also helping to support and strengthen our local economy during these uncertain times.

Fun Fact: While Eminence Organics stays true to its Hungarian heritage, its central office is proudly based in Vancouver, BC! Plus, for every product sold, they plant a tree through their Forests for the Future initiative, helping to make a positive impact on Canada and the rest of the world. Who wouldn’t want to use products from a brand that’s as good for the planet as it is for your skin?

Now that you know the top skincare ingredients to avoid, you’ll know what to stay on the lookout for when browsing the shelves of any beauty store or shopping new products online. Being mindful of ingredient labels helps you make smarter choices that support your skin’s well-being. And remember that clean beauty isn’t a trend but rather a commitment to safer products that work with your skin and not against it. Stay mindful, carefully read labels, and treat your skin with only the best!

Next Steps

Choose Clean Canadian Skincare

Browse through our extensive collection of pure, clean, and proudly Canadian Skinprovement and Eminence products here!

Book a Consultation Contact us to book a complimentary consultation and one of our Skinprovement experts will assess your skin to help address your skin concerns and guide you in creating a personalized clean skincare regimen from start to finish!