Beauty
Nov 05The pros don’t let these things ruin their complexion, so neither should you.
Loofah
“I wouldn’t recommend using a buff puff or loofah. It all comes down to the transfer of bacteria. Loofah sponges are intimate with many unclean areas of the body and then sit around allowing bacteria to multiply within the nooks and crannies of the sponge. Just like kitchen sponges, this common cleansing tool should be tossed. What to use instead? Your hands and a gentle cleanser.” —Joel Schlessinger, MD, board-certified dermatologist and RealSelf contributor.
Exfoliating brush
“I stay away from exfoliating brushes on my face. Skin on the face must be treated very gently. The skin naturally exfoliates, so harsh devices are not needed and can even cause damage, irritation, and in severe cases even scarring.” —Nava Greenfield, MD, a dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC. These exfoliating habits could do serious damage to your skin.
Synthetic fragrance
“Synthetic fragrances are made up of potentially harmful chemicals, like petroleum, benzene derivatives, aldehydes, and toluene, which are linked to allergic reactions and can cause irritation and redness on the applied area. Look for terms like parfum, perfume, linalool, limonene, eugenol, citronellol, geraniol, and cinnamal to clue you in that a product contains fragrance.” —Dendy Engelman, MD, dermatologic surgeon at Manhattan Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery. Don’t miss these other signs your skin-care products are actually bad for you.