Have you ever experienced symptoms like redness or itching on your skin when using a new cosmetic product? If so, it means you have an allergy or sensitivity to an ingredient in that product. In fact, all products we use (even the foods we consume) contain ingredients with allergenic potential. However, some ingredients have a higher potential to cause skin sensitivity than others.
If you're wondering which ingredients might cause skin sensitivity and are looking for ways to prevent it, you're in the right place. Let's continue reading!
1. Sulfate
Sulfate, found in shampoos, cleansers, soaps, and detergents, is an ingredient with the potential to cause sensitization in those with sensitive skin or skin prone to atopic dermatitis. It causes foaming in detergents, shampoos, and cleansers. It can cause symptoms such as redness and dryness of the skin and hair.
2. Protectors
Preservatives, which extend the shelf life of products and are found in almost every product we use and most foods we consume, can also cause sensitivities. They have a higher potential for causing allergic reactions, especially in people prone to atopic dermatitis .
3. Perfume/Fragrance
The perfume we're talking about here actually refers to chemical components or fragrances that make products smell better. People with sensitive skin may experience symptoms like itching, swelling, and redness. If you suspect you have sensitivity, products labeled "fragrance-free" might be a better option. However, even in these products, another ingredient may have been added to mask the scent of the product's ingredients, and those with sensitive skin may be sensitive to that ingredient as well.
4. Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide, which has antibacterial properties, can worsen sensitivity symptoms in people with sensitive skin. It is recommended to use products containing this ingredient only once a day, up to twice. Therefore, if you use a cleanser containing benzoyl peroxide in the morning, we advise against using another product with the same ingredient on the same day. Benzoyl peroxide can also reduce the effectiveness of Vitamin C when used in combination with other products containing Vitamin C. So, we recommend avoiding using both ingredients in the same routine. However, as always, we recommend consulting your dermatologist on how best to integrate these ingredients into your routine.
5. Alcohol
Some products containing alcohol can also cause allergic reactions such as dryness and irritation of the skin. Alcohol helps to deeply cleanse the skin of oil and dirt. However, it is necessary to consider skin type at this point. For example, if you have excessively oily skin, an alcohol-based toner can help reduce sebum that clogs pores. However, if you have dry, sensitive, or atopic-prone skin, products containing alcohol may cause your skin to dry out.
6. Botanical Ingredients & Essential Oils
Just because a product or ingredient is labeled "natural" or "organic" doesn't mean it won't cause a reaction on sensitive skin. Products considered "natural" often contain unusual or untested ingredients. Applying homemade mixtures, especially those containing natural oils , to the skin or scalp can trigger allergic reactions. Uninformed mixtures can cause these ingredients to interact and irritate the skin.
7. Acids
Some acids used in skincare, such as salicylic acid and glycolic acid, can cause different reactions in sensitive skin if used incorrectly. Therefore, we recommend using these ingredients only as directed by your dermatologist.
What can be done to prevent skin sensitivity?
You should consult your dermatologist.
First and foremost, we recommend consulting a dermatologist regarding the ingredients of any products you use, especially those that have caused allergic reactions on your skin. If an ingredient has caused sensitivity, your dermatologist is best suited to determine which ingredient is causing the problem. By using products containing the ingredients recommended by your dermatologist, in the manner and dosage they suggest, you will be making the best decision for your skin.
You should test the products.
Whether you have sensitive skin or not, we always recommend testing a new product before using it. This could be a skincare product, makeup product, hair care product, or hair dye. If it's a new product you've never used before, you should definitely test it first. Apply a small amount of the product behind your ear or on the inside of your wrist. If you don't observe any reaction such as redness, itching , or swelling within 24 hours of applying the product, then there's no problem.
You should be careful about the content you use together.
Especially in skincare, you should pay attention to the ingredients of the products you use in your routine. For example, we recommend that you do not use more than one product containing Benzoyl Peroxide at the same time or on the same day. Similarly, we recommend that you do not use products containing Benzoyl Peroxide and Vitamin C together, as this may reduce the effectiveness of Vitamin C.
You should use it in the correct dosage.
You should also pay attention to the dosage of the products you use. Especially when using products containing acids, in addition to testing to see if your skin can tolerate the ingredient, you should start by applying a very small amount of the product. If you don't encounter any problems, you can gradually increase the dosage.
You should use sunscreen.
Sunscreen is essential for our skin health. However, using a high SPF sunscreen is especially important with some products that contain acids. Therefore, you should remember to use sunscreen regularly every day.
You can choose hypoallergenic products.
If you have sensitive skin, we recommend that you use hypoallergenic products, ensuring they are specifically developed to minimize allergic reactions.
