The amount of topical products on the market can be overwhelming at times. Some are certainly better than others, and although most people know which active ingredients they are searching for, it is often the last ingredients on the list that can be problematic.
While there are many things to consider, it is important to look for and avoid the use of additives such as colorants and perfumes.
Dr. Jennifer Linder says artificial fragrances and dyes in skincare products are two of the most common causes of allergic reactions. These reactions can include mild hives, acne-like breakouts, itchy skin, swelling and, in rare circumstances, dangerous anaphylaxis.
This raises the question: is it really that important for these products to be a certain color or smell a certain way?
Dr. Linder offers these 8 tips when you are shopping for skincare products.
#1 Certain ingredients are imperative to a formulation. Linder says a product must contain key ingredients to ensure it is performing its indicated function (e.g. cleansing the skin, reducing wrinkles, etc.).
Emulsifiers are included to give the product the appropriate texture for its purpose (e.g. creamy, foaming, etc.).
Stabilizing ingredients are used to prevent separation and preservatives are included to ensure the product is not going to grow bacteria or other harmful substances.
#2 Linder says many times people immediately blame the active ingredient in a product for a sensitivity or reaction.
This is common with sunscreens, for example. In my experience, a minute percentage of people are truly sensitive to sunscreen ingredients.
It is typically the additives that are to blame and it is unfortunate, as one bad experience may drive a patient away from highly beneficial ingredients.
#3 According to Linder scent is a highly subjective thing; certain individuals may like the smell of rose extract, for example, whereas others find it foul.
Fragrances can also smell different once applied to the skin (e.g. you may really like a perfume on someone else but the scent changes drastically when applied to your skin).
#4 Dyes are often used to standardize a product line's look. For example, every product may be blue or pink. This is frivolous and unnecessarily increases the chance of negative reactions.
#5 It is important to understand that anyone can be sensitive or allergic to anything at anytime, and the use of ingredients that are not performing a specific function other than the look or scent of a product is an unnecessary risk.
#6 How would one know if the scent of their product is artificial or not?
Linder says certain natural ingredients have a pleasant aroma, so just because your product smells good does not necessarily mean it contains an artificial fragrance. Look for the words "fragrance" or "perfume" on a product's ingredient list. This indicates the scent is artificial.
#7 How would one know if the color of their product is artificial?
According to Linder, there are numerous artificial colorants used in cosmetic products. Some examples include: Blue 1, Yellow 5, Red 22, etc.
Anything with this type of listing would indicate artificial dyes. (display Ingredient Listing Comparison at this time)
#8 If someone does experience an allergic reaction, what should they do?
Linder says if it is severe (e.g. extensive swelling or anaphylaxis) seek immediate medical attention.
If the reaction is a rash, itching or hives, antihistamines or topical hydrocortisone can be use until the reaction has calmed (no more than 5 days).
