DIY skincare can be appealing, but some common ingredients can actually harm your skin. Here are five to avoid:
1. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is popular for its brightening effects due to vitamin C, but its high acidity can severely irritate your skin. With a pH of around 2, lemon juice disrupts your skin’s natural barrier (which has a pH of 4.5 to 5.5), leading to redness, irritation, and an increased risk of sunburn. For safer skin brightening, use a vitamin C serum designed for skin use.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda, often used in exfoliants and masks, has a pH of about 9, which is too alkaline for your skin. Regular use can strip away natural oils, causing dryness, irritation, and acne. To exfoliate safely, choose a pH-balanced exfoliant designed for facial use.
3. Toothpaste
Toothpaste is sometimes applied to pimples due to its drying properties, but its ingredients, like baking soda and menthol, can be harsh for facial skin. This can lead to irritation, redness, and chemical burns. Opt for spot treatments containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which are formulated for acne treatment.
4. Sugar
Sugar is often used in DIY scrubs for its exfoliating properties, but its coarse granules can be too harsh for the delicate skin on your face. This can cause micro-tears, leading to sensitivity and breakouts. For facial exfoliation, use products with gentle, rounded beads or chemical exfoliants like AHAs or BHAs.
5. Coconut Oil
While coconut oil is praised for its moisturizing properties, it is highly comedogenic, meaning it can clog pores and exacerbate acne, especially for oily or acne-prone skin. Instead, use non-comedogenic oils like argan or jojoba oil, which moisturize without blocking pores.
By avoiding these common DIY ingredients, you can protect your skin from irritation and ensure it stays healthy and glowing. It’s often safer to use products specifically formulated for your skin type and concerns.