Misinformation about skincare ingredients can lead to poor results and even skin damage. Make it your responsibility to learn and understand what’s in your skincare products. Read on to debunk common ingredients myths and make better choices.

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Ingredients Myths

Myth 1: “Natural Ingredients Are Always Better”

If an ingredient is natural or classified as organic, it doesn’t mean it can’t cause an adverse effect. Essential oils can be very strong and cause reactions on some skin types. Natural doesn’t mean it is safe for everyone. Lemon juice and coconut oil are natural but can cause irritation – depending on your skin type. It is always best to do a patch test before starting to use a new product. Synthetic ingredients are carefully formulated for safety and efficacy.

Myth 2: “Alcohol in Products Dries Out Your Skin”

Some forms of alcohol in skincare can dry out the skin, but not all. There is a big difference between fatty alcohols and simple alcohols. It also depends on the quantity of alcohol within the product. Used correctly, it can kill bacteria and dissolve grease. It is best to use products with no more than 20% alcohol to avoid skin dryness. “Good alcohols” are fatty alcohols used as emulsifiers, thickeners or softening agents. These can be beneficial for the skin (when combined with other ingredients). They provide moisturise and support the skin barrier.  Denatured or simple alcohol (ethanol) is to be avoided – but it does depend on the concentration and what it is being used for.  

Myth 3: “The Higher the Percentage, the Better”

The belief that that a higher percentage of an active ingredient means it is more effective is not true. You do not need a high percentage to feel the effects. It is best to start with a low percentage of an active ingredient so your skin gets used to it. Otherwise there is a strong chance of irritation and disruption of the skin barrier. High percentages aren’t better for everyone – and are more likely to cause skin problems. 

Myth 4: “If It Burns, It’s Working”

There is a distinct difference between tingling and actual irritation. If skincare stings or burns when you apply it, it could be harming the skin.  A burning feeling is often a sign of skin barrier damage. Discomfort can be a sign that your skin is telling you there is an allergic response.  While certain products (acids) can cause an initial tingling sensation, it should not last for long. Never underestimate the importance of patch testing before starting a new product.

Myth 5: “Fragrance-Free Means No Irritation”

“Fragrance-free” doesn’t always mean free from sensitising agents. While some sensitive skin types can react to certain fragrances, there are also benign ingredients that have a nice smell – but don’t cause irritation. Scents can also make you feel good and trigger happy associations. Essential oils and plant extracts can still cause irritation even if they are unscented. 

How to Make Informed Choices

The best thing you can do is take control of your skincare by making informed choices. So, how can you do this?

Learn to Read Ingredient Lists

When reading the small print on the back of products, ingredients are listed by concentration. The highest concentration is always first. The first 3–5 ingredients usually make up the bulk of the formula. Make it your responsibility to be aware of what ingredients suit your skin and which ones to avoid. Look unfamiliar ingredients up online before you invest.

Know Your Skin Type and Concerns

Not every ingredient suits every skin type. Whatever your skin type – dry, acne-prone (oily), combination or sensitive skin – it requires a different approach. The more you understand your skin, the better the outcome will be. When you book a SkinBase treatment, your therapist can advise what skin type you are. This will help you to choose the best products for you. 

Don’t Be Fooled by Buzzwords

Labels can be misleading. Read skincare labels carefully and don’t get fooled by marketing ploys to make you buy a product. It might say “pure”, “chemical-free” or “natural”. Instead focus on the science-backed function of each ingredient. Remember the ingredients are listen in descending order!

Perfect Skin Starts Here

Stay informed to avoid believing everything you hear and read. Ingredients myths are real. For successful skin results, make your choices based on science-backed skincare. Check out the range in the SkinBase Shop.