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Picking out the right moisturizer for your skin–especially if you have sensitive skin–is a crucial part of your skincare routine. However, many moisturizer ingredients can have a negative impact on your skin, leading to breakouts and irritation.
According to Dr. Yoram Harth, Board Certified Dermatologist and a member of the American Academy of Dermatology, one of the most important moisturizer ingredients to avoid is benzaldehyde.
Benzaldehyde
He explains, "Benzaldehyde is a synthetic fragrance used by many moisturizer producers. As with other fragrances, it can clog pores."
If you have sensitive skin that is acne-prone, staying away from benzaldehyde is extra important.
In fact, staying away from all fragrances is a good idea. Adina Mahalli, hair and skincare expert for Maple Holistics, explains, "When you see fragrance listed on your moisturizer ingredient label, you should see a red flag."
She continues, "The term fragrance was created in order to protect the ‘secret formula’ of a company but has now become a loophole to hide a whole host of harmful ingredients."
Mahalli explains, "For those with sensitive skin or acne, ‘fragrance’ can contain harsh hidden ingredients that have the potential to cause your skin to become dry, inflamed, or irritated."
Sticking to fragrance-free moisturizers is a good way to protect your skin against unnecessary irritation.
Some good fragrance-free moisturizer options include CeraVe Facial Moisturizer and Neutrogena Hydro Boost Facial Moisturizer.
