Skincare is more than just a beauty routine; it's a way of taking care of one of the largest organs you have—your skin. However, with an overwhelming variety of products available on the market, how do you know what's actually worth putting on your skin? The reality is that not all skincare products are created equal, and some are packed with synthetic additives many people would rather skip. Here are four simple ways to spot them.
1. Check the Ingredients List
One of the first steps you can take is to familiarize yourself with the ingredients list on your skincare products. Terms like "parabens," "phthalates," "sulfates," "formaldehyde," and "synthetic fragrances" are red flags. These chemicals are often used as preservatives, plasticizers, or stabilizers, and are among the additives many people choose to avoid.
2. Do a Patch Test
Before fully committing to a new skincare product, it's always a good idea to perform a patch test. Apply a small amount of the product on a discreet area of your skin, like the inside of your wrist, and wait for 24-48 hours. If you experience any redness, burning, itching, or any other adverse reaction, it could indicate that the product contains irritating or questionable ingredients.
3. Beware of Fragrance
The term "fragrance" may sound harmless, but it can be a catch-all phrase for hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. Companies are not required to disclose what goes into their "fragrance" blend, and it can include allergens, irritants, and synthetic additives. Opt for products labeled "fragrance-free" or those that use natural fragrances like essential oils.
4. Do Your Research
In our digital age, information is at our fingertips. Look up reviews, read blog posts, and even consult independent resources to learn more about a skincare product. Websites like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep Database can provide in-depth information on various products and ingredients.
Related reading: What's Really in Conventional Skincare: A Plain-English Guide · 10 Reasons to Love Tau Tau’s Tallow-Based Skincare
About the author: Joe Popovich is the founder of Tau Tau Skin — a former Marine and presidential helicopter pilot. He saw a problem in the skincare industry and made something to fix it: simple, real-ingredient formulas, hand-made in small batches in Arizona. Read the Tau Tau story or see how the products are made.