Avoid these Five Skincare Sinners – Dr. Roya Hassad Warns

There seems to be an abundance of advice on attaining flawless skin sourced from self-proclaimed beauty influencers on TikTok. But do these products actually work? Most importantly, are these sworn-by products safe to use? While some of them prove to be a plain wonder for many – like hyaluronic acid serums, which are generally safe to use, many of those eagerly advised overnight miracle creams are laden with skin irritants and hormone disruptors. Alarmingly, many skincare products were found to contain potential carcinogens, as reported by independent testing conducted by Valisure.

Hence, these seemingly benign products marketed by unsubstantial claims could lead to a major health risk. This often leaves the consumer on the receiving end: distraught and resentful.

To set the record straight, Doctor Roya Jafari Hassad, MD, red flags the five common ingredients found in skincare. Avoiding these ingredients could be beneficial not only in achieving healthier skin but also in alleviating the stress of using unapproved beauty products.

Common Skincare Issues Related to Toxic Ingredients

When inquired about the hitches of applying the wrong products to the face, Dr. Roya explained:

“Skin is the largest organ in our body, and it’s our responsibility to protect and nourish it. While a consistent skincare routine contributes to radiant skin, harmful ingredients in cosmetics may prove counterproductive.”

Some of the safety concerns associated with the steady use of products containing damaging ingredients include:

• Eye infections

• Skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis

• Developmental issues

• Increased sensitivity to other ingredients

• Hormone dysregulation

• Skin cancer

Dr. Roya further highlighted, “Unfortunately, many personal care products sold in the market are not well-regulated. Hence, many consumers continue to buy and apply them, thinking they are skin-friendly.”

Harmful Ingredients to Avoid in Skincare

• Formaldehyde

“Decades of research have labelled formaldehyde as a potentially carcinogenic ingredient in cosmetic and beauty products,” warns Dr. Roya. “Despite this known fact, many cosmetic chemists continue to formulate products containing formaldehyde. What’s worse is that many aestheticians and dermatologists regularly recommend products laced with this toxic substance.”

California banned formaldehyde in 2020, becoming the first state to do so.

Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring compound in living organisms. However, it gets exhaled in the form of carbon dioxide and doesn’t pose any toxicity. In the case of applying formaldehyde-containing products, it can absorb through the skin and accumulate in the body over time. This is where it becomes unsafe, as exposure to high levels of the compound can cause health issues and even become fatal.

“Sometimes formaldehyde hides in the name of compounds such as Bronopol and imidazolidinyl urea, so be aware,” adds Dr. Roya.

• Aluminum

The European Union (EU) declares Aluminum as “a known systematic toxin at high doses.” Although once purported to treat hypochondriasis, Aluminum was later found to be associated with causing undesirable activity in breast tissues. Furthermore, aluminium in deodorants can often cause itchy armpits and blemish the skin, even causing breakouts.

To prevent such an issue from developing, Dr. Roya suggests using antiperspirants made from naturally derived ingredients, like baking soda.

• Phthalates

Phthalates are another sneaky ingredient to look out for when shopping for skincare products. A 2018 scientific report stated phthalates are one of the reasons behind fertility issues in women.

“I advise my patients to be vigilant when buying products containing phthalates since they are known to alter puberty,” recommends Dr. Roya. “Not only that, both men and women are at risk of developing hormonal dysregulation due to phthalates absorption in the bloodstream.”

And the biggest wake-up call? Phthalates are equally harmful to our environment!

• Triclosan

Nearly a decade ago, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned triclosan in antiseptic face and body washes. The many reasons cited for this initiative included reproductive issues in both males and females. Additionally, the antimicrobial ingredient can potentially lead to lung irritation and thyroid issues.

According to Dr. Roya, Triclosan also plays a significant role in the worsening of preexisting allergy conditions. Moreover, long-term exposure to triclosan can result in the development of antibiotic resistance, which often upshots an extended illness.

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

While not downright absurd, SLS requires careful incorporation into skincare routines. Sourced from petroleum and various plant sources, the sulfate compound is added as foaming and cleaning agent in cleansing products.

Dr Roya labels SLS as an epidermis thinner, which becomes the basis of certain inflammatory processes. To state it simply, SLS flakes your skin and promotes dehydration by inducing water loss. Besides, it can be the reason behind those pesky little whiteheads and blackheads on your face.

When it comes to hair care, SLS is notorious for diminishing the strength of your hair follicles and causing scalp discomfort.

Dr. Roya J. Hassad Recommends Safer Alternatives

“I’m happy to see my patients conscious of what they are adding to their skincare routines,” notes Dr. Roya. “My top recommendation to them is to avoid fragranced products and stick to natural products. While they usually have shorter shelf lives than the chemical ones, they are usually non-toxic and don’t accompany lifetime consequences.”

Below is the list of commonly dermatologist-approved ingredients in skincare:

• Coconut oil

• Tea-tree oil

• Elderberry extract

• Aloe Vera

• Vitamin C

Remember, every skin has different needs and needs to be treated accordingly. If a product worked for your friend or a relative, it doesn’t necessarily work the same wonders for you. Speaking with a certified skin consultant can help you minimize the risk of putting your largest organ in jeopardy.