10 Hype Beauty Products That Can Secretly Harm Us

Constantly changing trends consistently push new beauty products on us. While some of them can bring many benefits, others can pose potential risks to our bodies. For example, several types of facial oils and serums can irritate the skin, while some face masks can even leave harmful ingredients behind.

We at Bright Side decided to take a closer look at some popular cosmetics and devices that many of us use almost daily and check to see which ones might not be worth buying.

1. Cleansing devices

Some devices like this are being used daily. The downside of this is that it can lead to too much rubbing and over-exfoliation. Such aggressive handling can cause irritation, painful breakouts, pimples, and increase skin sensitivity. As a solution, you can try mild chemical exfoliators like acids and enzymes that will help you to remove dead skin cells without scrubbing and breaking your skin.

2. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is seen as a powerful protector from UV damage and free radicals. But those who have oily or acne-prone skin should not apply pure vitamin E to their skin. It can clog pores and leave to even more breakouts and scarring. To receive its benefits you can consume vitamin E-rich foods in moderation. Among them are peanuts, red bell peppers, pumpkins, and avocados.

3. Facial oils

Essential oils or face oils are being advertised as a natural alternative to other hydrating products. Applying them on the skin daily can cause allergic reactions, turning into cracked, dry skin, blisters, or hives. If you still want to use essential oils on your face, make sure you mix them with a carrier oil to avoid irritation.

4. Sheet face masks

Most of these masks are made with the use of synthetic materials like plastic microfibers, nylon, or polyester and they are soaked in serums made of thick silicones. This means that you might end up putting harmful ingredients right on top of your skin. They can give you the impression of a healthy skin glow, but actually, it’s just the thin layer of harmful chemicals that you see. On top of that, sheet masks are very wasteful and damage the environment.

5. Jade rollers

Since the stone on the tool is always cold, massaging your skin with it can temporarily reduce redness and puffiness. Massaging different face areas can improve blood circulation and give you a healthier look. However, there is no scientific evidence that using the roller can help you reduce fine lines or alleviate rashes. Moreover, because of the rising popularity, these tools cost way more than they should. It’s better to practice facial massage instead.

6. Makeup with SPF

To make SPF in your face creams and foundation bring any benefits to your skin, you would need to apply a very thick layer of the product on your face. For example, you would need 7 times the usual amount of foundation to get sun protection. Instead, you should apply a layer of sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, and then finish up with a foundation.

7. Lash serums

While some eyelash products can have some positive effects on their growth, they also come with a lot of side effects. People can experience eyelid redness and itchiness, swelling and irritation in the eyes, as well as skin hyperpigmentation. On the flip side, natural remedies like castor or olive oil and green tea can help you to enhance your lashes without unpleasant consequences.

8. Face mists

Spraying thermal water on your face can give you a refreshing feeling for a short time, but later on, you might be left out with even more dehydrated skin and a feeling of dryness. Moreover, these products can contain plant and flower extracts, which might make your skin more sensitive and cause irritation if you keep using them for an extended time.

9. Feminine wash

According to researchers, the use of intimate hygiene gels and cleansers can drastically raise the risks of fungal and bacterial infections. Scented wipes and deodorants contain dangerous chemicals that should not be applied to your sensitive areas. They might disrupt your natural balance and expose you to infection.

What to do instead: Using simple soap and water to keep yourself clean and healthy is enough.

10. High % niacinamide

It has been proven that vitamin B3 can protect you from sun damage, minimize fine lines, treat acne, regulate skin oils, and way more. But you need to pay close attention to the concentration listed on the product, as a higher percentage doesn’t mean better results. Instead, it can cause irritation and redness. In fact, formulas containing just 5 percent niacinamide are the most effective.

Do you use any of these products? Let’s have a discussion in the comment section below!