Reading Time: < 1 minute
There’s no shortage of skincare products on the market — but for sensitive skin, some of them are just too much. If your skin tends to react, here are some ingredients and product types to steer clear of.
1. Fragrance
Fragrance is one of the most common causes of irritation. Even “natural” scents can be harsh on sensitive skin. Look for fragrance-free on your product labels — not just “unscented.”
2. Alcohol
Alcohol (like denatured alcohol or SD alcohol) dries out the skin and weakens your skin barrier. It’s often found in toners or gels with a “cooling” effect — which isn’t worth the sting.
3. Essential oils
Yes, they’re natural — but that doesn’t mean they’re gentle. Oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, or citrus can trigger redness, especially in facial products.
4. Sulfates (like SLS or SLES)
These are foaming agents found in soaps and cleansers. They make your face feel “squeaky clean” — and that’s the problem. They strip away moisture and can leave skin tight and inflamed.
5. Rough exfoliants
Scrubs with large or jagged particles (like apricot kernel or walnut shell) can damage sensitive skin. Try gentle chemical exfoliants designed for sensitivity (like our upcoming PureEase Sensitive Skin Peel).
Always read the label:
You don’t need a chemistry degree to understand what’s in your skincare — just look out for common irritants and stick with brands that prioritize gentle, effective care (like us!).
