Teenage skin is very delicate, so it is important to avoid certain harmful ingredients. Here are some of them.
Fragrances and perfumes
Fragranced beauty ingredients are one of the most common causes of contact allergic reactions. These products can cause allergies or irritation to the sensitive skin of teenage girls.
Paraben
Parabens contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can interfere with normal thyroid function, according to research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in 2023. Parabens can lead to hormonal disruption, especially in girls.
Sulfate
Sulfates are commonly found in cleansers because of their ability to create foam and clean. However, beauty products containing sulfates can strip the skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and prone to irritation.
Retinoids
Retinoids have anti-wrinkle properties, helping to strengthen the barrier function of the epidermis and protect collagen from degradation. Retinoids are effective for women over 30 or those starting to show signs of aging, but are too strong for younger skin. They can cause peeling and increased sun sensitivity in teenagers.
Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone may help prevent uneven skin pigmentation, according to research published in StatPearls in 2023. It's a skin lightener, but it's too strong for teenage skin and should be avoided unless recommended by a dermatologist.
Glycolic acid
Glycolic acid can be used to treat acne, hyperpigmentation, and signs of aging, according to research published in the journal Molecules in 2018. Alpha-hydroxy acids are commonly used in skin care to exfoliate and brighten the skin by removing dead skin cells.
While glycolic acid can be beneficial for some skin concerns like hyperpigmentation and uneven texture, it’s not a good ingredient for teenage skin because it’s too harsh for sensitive, growing skin. Glycolic acid can cause irritation, redness, and even peeling, which can aggravate common teenage skin issues like acne or oily skin.
