Over the Counter Skincare Products: Helpful or Harmful

When we go to the beauty or skin care aisle of any store, it can be easy to become overwhelmed with the vast number of products that are available. From anti-aging, to shine control, or blemish prevention, there seems to be an over the counter product for any skin ailment you may have. Many of us may choose a product because of marketing we’ve seen or even because the packaging looks nicer than another product’s. You may not have a rhyme or reason to your skin care regime, but it’s time you start looking into what ingredients are being used in your over the counter products.

A Vicious Skincare Cycle

If acne is a skin issue you must deal with, chances are the over the counter product you’re using might be drying your skin out. You then turn to a moisturizer from the same brand to help hydrate your skin, but it might not be penetrating your skin deeply enough to help. You’re now trapped in a vicious cycle of trying to heal two skin problems. Before buying your next over the counter product, read its ingredients. If they have any of the following, leave it on the shelf:

• Paraben
• Phthalates
• Petrochemicals
• Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate
• Diazolidinyl Urea

Companies are required by the FDA to list the ingredients of a product in order of highest concentration first. I always recommend using products from companies like Pevonia that use natural, quality ingredients. Pevonia believes that the most effective and safest skincare ingredients are those that can be found in nature. Though you can’t find Pevonia in a typical department store, it is available at Botanica and other elite spas across the country.

Should I be Concerned About My Products

Fortunately, people are starting to care more and more about what they are putting in and on their bodies. Organic, unprocessed foods are in high demand because people want to put clean food into their bodies in order to prevent diseases and other health problems. The same is happening in the skincare industry. Organic and natural skincare products and cosmetics are on the rise because people are demanding to know what ingredients they are using on their skin.

Education is key. Know what’s in your products. Not all over the counter skincare products are made equally.

Love,

Gen