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Skincare to Not Use: Harmful Ingredients and Products to Avoid

Updated: May 25, 2023


When it comes to taking care of your skin, it's important to know what products and ingredients to avoid. Some skincare products can contain harmful ingredients that can damage your skin or cause allergic reactions. In this article, we will discuss skincare products and ingredients to avoid and provide some safe alternatives.


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Bar Soap

Bar soap is a common household item that many people use for their face. However, this can be harmful to your skin. Bar soap can dry out the skin and cause issues like pimples and roughness. Instead, opt for a gentle facial cleanser that is formulated for your skin type.


Petroleum Jelly

Petroleum jelly is a popular product used for moisturizing the skin. However, it should not be applied to the face as it can trap dirt and bacteria in the pores, leading to potential breakouts. Instead, use a non-comedogenic moisturizer that is specifically formulated for the delicate skin on your face.


Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol should never be applied to the face as it can be harsh and drying, stripping the skin of its natural moisture. Instead, use a gentle toner or a micellar water to remove impurities from your skin.


Hair Spray

Hair spray should never be applied to your face as it can dry out the skin and cause dehydration, aging, and skin irritation.


Deodorant

Deodorant should not be used on the face as it can block the skin from breathing and interfere with natural perspiration. Instead, use a non-comedogenic sunscreen or a moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays.


Hair Color Products

Hair color products, particularly box dyes, should not be used on the skin around the eye area as they can be irritating and cause burning and tearing of the eyes.


Vegetable Shortening

Vegetable shortening is too heavy for facial skin and can clog pores, leading to breakouts. Instead, use a non-comedogenic and lightweight moisturizer that is specifically formulated for your skin type.


Shampoo

Shampoo is not suitable for cleansing the face as it can cause excessive dryness and flakiness. Instead, use a gentle facial cleanser that is specifically formulated for your skin type.


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Hair Serum

Hair serum should not be used on the face as it contains ingredients that are not suitable for treating fine lines or other skin concerns and may irritate the skin. Instead, use a targeted skincare product that is designed to address your specific skin concerns.


Foot Creams

Foot creams are not meant for the face and should not be applied as they are too rich, thick, and sticky, with chemical exfoliants that are not suitable for facial skin. Instead, use a gentle and lightweight moisturizer that is specifically formulated for your skin type.


Nail Polish

Nail polish should only be used on the nails and should not be applied to the face, as it can dry out the skin. If you want to add some color to your face, use a non-comedogenic and lightweight makeup product that is specifically formulated for your skin type.


Acetic Acids

Acetic acids, such as vinegar, can be used as a toner, but it is recommended to use a toner specifically formulated with the ingredient rather than using kitchen cabinet vinegar, which can potentially burn the skin. Instead, use a gentle toner that is specifically formulated for your skin type.


Mayonnaise

Mayonnaise is not suitable for the skin due to its acidity and occlusive properties, which can prevent the skin from breathing and clog pores. It is better to use safe at-home facial masks for skincare purposes that are specifically formulated for your skin type.



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In conclusion, it is essential to be mindful of the skincare products you use on your face. Using products that are not formulated for your skin type or contain harmful ingredients can lead to skin irritation, breakouts, and other skin concerns. At Carisma Aesthetics, we recommend using skincare products that are specifically formulated for your skin type and seeking professional advice if you have any concerns about your skin.








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dr. giovanni scornavacca

Dr. Giovanni is an Italian aesthetic doctor at Carisma Aesthetics, trained and practiced for years in Italy with continued advanced education across leading universities in Rome, Bologna and other centres. He specialises in aesthetic medicine with a particular interest in regenerative approaches such as PRP, stem cells, pairing medical rigour with a calm, human manner.

His philosophy is restoration, not change: every consultation begins with listening to your story and how you want to feel in your skin, then shaping a conservative, precisely paced plan that prioritises safety, clarity and natural balance. From softening expression lines and refining contour to improving tone, texture and early laxity, his results are subtle and harmonious—refreshed, never overdone.

At our St Julian’s clinic, Dr. Giovanni offers evidence-based treatments including botulinum toxin, dermal fillers, collagen stimulators, skin boosters, microneedling with mesotherapy, PRP and medical-grade laser therapies, guiding you thoughtfully through each step so you can glow with confidence.

dr. francesca CHIRCOP

Dr. Francesca is a London-trained aesthetic doctor with eight years in medical aesthetics and a foundation in orthopaedic surgery, bringing precise anatomical insight to subtle, balanced results. Her philosophy is restoration, not change: every consultation begins with listening to your story and how you want to feel in your skin before shaping a conservative, personalised plan that prioritises safety, clarity, and natural harmony.

 

She leads our Lip Flip (botulinum toxin) enhancements and oversees the majority of our medical-grade laser hair removal care, pairing meticulous technique with advanced protocols for smooth, long-term results. Across anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, skin boosters, PRP/regenerative techniques, microneedling with mesotherapy, and medical-grade lasers, she guides you thoughtfully through each step so the outcome feels authentically you—refreshed, never overdone.

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At Carisma Aesthetics, we bring over 30 years of expertise in wellness and aesthetics. Guided by medical excellence and a passion for confidence, our treatments are designed to help you look and feel your best.”

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