The Skincare Ingredients Dermatologists Warn Against
Skincare may be booming — but beneath the glossy packaging, some products could be doing more harm than good.
Experts estimate that 10–20% of the global population has experienced reactions to cosmetic ingredients, with issues ranging from contact dermatitis (itchy rashes caused by direct contact) to more serious health concerns like hormonal disruption and, in rare cases, even cancer.
With searches for skincare reaching 674,000 in the UK last month alone, and social media filled with elaborate routines, dermatologists are warning consumers to pay closer attention to what’s really inside their products.
The Rise of Skin Sensitivities
“With skin sensitivities on the rise, it’s crucial for consumers to understand what’s in their skincare,” says Dr Conal Perrett, consultant dermatologist at The Devonshire Clinic.
“By eliminating harsh ingredients and choosing scientifically proven alternatives, we can protect the skin’s barrier, reduce irritation, and promote long-term skin health.”
The Ingredients Dermatologists Flag as Harmful
Dr Perrett and his team highlight common red flag ingredients often hidden in everyday cleansers, moisturisers, and sunscreens:
- Harsh detergents (SLS, SLES): Strip natural oils, causing dryness and irritation.
- Denatured alcohols (Alcohol Denat., Ethanol): Dehydrate skin and weaken its protective barrier.
- Fragrance & essential oils: Leading causes of allergic reactions and sensitisation.
- Parabens (Methyl-, Propyl-, Butylparaben): Linked to hormone disruption and microbiome imbalance.
- Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15): Strong irritants linked with chronic dermatitis.
- Chemical sunscreen filters (Oxybenzone, Octinoxate): Associated with irritation, hormonal disruption, and environmental harm.
- Synthetic dyes (FD&C colours): Potential allergy triggers.
- PEG compounds: May contain carcinogenic byproducts and increase toxin absorption.
- Overuse of acids (high-strength AHA/BHA): Damages skin barrier and increases UV sensitivity.
Why the Skin Barrier Matters
“Many people don’t realise that repeated exposure to these ingredients can gradually weaken the skin’s barrier,” Dr Perrett explains.
A compromised barrier doesn’t just cause dryness — it can increase susceptibility to allergies, infections, and chronic inflammation.
The good news? With the right choices, it’s possible to restore and protect skin health.
Dermatologist-Approved Tips for Safer Skincare
- ✅ Check labels carefully: avoid sulphates, parabens, and denatured alcohols.
- ✅ Patch test new products: try them on your inner arm for 48 hours first.
- ✅ Opt for fragrance-free formulas if your skin is sensitive.
- ✅ Choose barrier-boosting ingredients: ceramides, niacinamide, glycerine, squalane.
- ✅ Don’t overexfoliate: limit acids to 2–3 times per week.
- ✅ Pick mineral sunscreens: zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are gentler alternatives.
- ✅ Simplify your routine: fewer steps often mean less irritation.
✨ Bottom line: Skincare should strengthen, not strip. By making informed choices, consumers can protect their skin barrier — and their long-term health — while still enjoying the benefits of a good routine.
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