6 INGREDIENTS YOU SHOULD BANISH FROM YOUR ROUTINE THIS YEAR

The new year is in full swing and you're ready to take control of your routine and get back to feeling great, including your skin! There are countless common ingredients in skincare products that could be the cause of those unwanted skin problems that have been plaguing you for too long. These irritating and inflammatory ingredients can be directly linked to skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and rosacea. Avoiding these skin stressors will leave you feeling calm and comfortable once again, ready to tackle the new year.

Here's the lowdown on the six most bothersome ingredients to ditch from your routine this year, so your skin can look and feel its best.

Fragrances & Dyes
Using products containing synthetic fragrances or dyes can cause increased inflammation in the skin. They can also impair the skin's ability to heal itself, worsening symptoms such as dryness, rashes, and redness. These ingredients can be one of the main causes of allergic reactions to skincare products or makeup, so those with sensitive skin especially should avoid them.

Alcohol
Alcohol in skincare products can diminish the skin's natural ability to retain moisture. This can often lead to increased oil production from the skin, which can worsen acne on the skin due to increased sebum production. As alcohol strips the skin of moisture, this can weaken the skin's protective barrier, making it more susceptible to the effects of external irritants that could potentially do even more damage to your skin.

Silicones
Silicone is a common ingredient in skincare products as it is good at locking in moisture, improving the look of flaky, dry skin. However, it can also trap other unwanted substances in the skin, such as oils and bacteria, which can increase the risk of developing skin conditions like acne or rosacea. It could do more harm than good to your skin, so it’s best to use ingredients that provide moisture while allowing the skin to breathe!

SLS & SLES
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLES) are common surfactants that cause skin irritation and often exacerbate skin conditions, as well as negatively affecting the skin's pH levels. These foaming agents should be avoided to prevent increased skin sensitivity and inflammation.

Paraffin
Paraffin forms a barrier on the skin, intended to lock in moisture. However, it can also clog pores and worsen acne-prone skin. As a result, the skin cannot excrete waste products as usual, increasing the risk of bacterial and fungal infections. Let your skin breathe and avoid paraffin-based skincare products.

Steroids:
When used in skincare products, steroids can thin the skin, making it more sensitive and prone to irritation that can trigger bothersome skin conditions. If used for an extended period and then discontinued, this can lead to a condition called topical steroid withdrawal or TSW, which manifests as redness, flaking, and itching of the skin. Stick to natural formulations to avoid making your skin dependent on steroids.

Ready to kick off the year with natural skincare? No more extra nasties, just naturally active and pre-biotic ingredients to give your skin everything it needs to nurture you! The Sorted Skin range is completely free from all the above, featuring cruelty-free, vegan, and natural formulas to keep your skin feeling happy and healthy all year round.