For years skincare has been an important part of daily lives. More recently, there has been a new wave of really putting effort into having a detailed routine with all sorts of serums, cleansers, moisturizers, masks, etc. However, some products may be doing more harm than good and people are oblivious to it.

            The best way to make sure a product is really worth the spending is to look at the ingredients. According to Carbon Magazine, phthalates (DHP, DEHP, DBP5, dibutyl phthalate), sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, formaldehyde (this one is so strong it is used in the embalming process, yikes) and petrolatum are a few ingredients that can damage the skin and can cause intense issues, even skin cancer.

Green flags in skincare include hyaluronic acid, alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), ceramides, retinol, argan oil, vitamin c and e, green tea or algae extract (according to PROVEN).

Although those ingredients are safe for the skin it’s important to use ingredients the skin and person isn’t allergic to. Trial-and-error is best here and using products that match skin type is extremely crucial as well.

A couple of brands to look out for: Neutrogena, Huda, Grande Cosmetics, Clinique, Shisedo and others because they have had class action lawsuits for consumers saying their products contain harsh chemicals and false advertising. (Top Class Actions).

A couple of safe brands to browse through that contain clean good ingredients include One Love Organics, Town & Anchor, Laurel Skin, Ilia Beauty, Acure, Fitglow Beauty, CeraVe and so many others. (Real Simple). 

A good basic skincare routine includes a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, serums and most importantly sunscreen. Some skins need extra attention, such as eye cream, a richer moisturizer or facial oil to ensure the skin is taken care of, it all depends on skin type! Making sure clean ingredients are in the products is the first step to beautiful healthy skin.