Skincare Ingredients to Avoid for Sensitive Skin

1. Fragrance (Synthetic & Natural)

Fragrance is one of the top triggers for sensitive skin reactions. It can be listed as “fragrance,” “parfum,” or even hidden within essential oils.

Why to avoid it:

• Can cause irritation, redness, and allergic reactions

• Often unnecessary and offers no skincare benefit

Even natural fragrances like lavender or citrus oils can be irritating for sensitive skin.

2. Alcohol (Especially Denatured Alcohol)

Not all alcohols are bad, but denatured alcohol (Alcohol Denat, SD Alcohol) can be extremely drying.

Why to avoid it:

• Strips the skin’s natural oils

• Weakens the skin barrier

• Can worsen redness and sensitivity

Sensitive skin benefits more from hydrating, barrier-supporting formulas.

3. Harsh Physical Exfoliants

Ingredients like crushed walnut shells, apricot kernels, or rough scrubs may feel effective but can cause micro-tears in sensitive skin.

Why to avoid them:

• Damage the skin barrier

• Increase inflammation

• Can lead to long-term sensitivity

Gentle chemical exfoliants (used sparingly) are usually a better option.

4. Strong Acids at High Concentrations

AHAs and BHAs can be helpful, but high concentrations or frequent use can overwhelm sensitive skin.

Examples include:

• Glycolic acid (high %)

• Salicylic acid (daily use)

Why to be cautious:

• Over-exfoliation

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Increased redness

Sensitive skin should use low concentrations and limit frequency.

5. Essential Oils

Tea tree, peppermint, eucalyptus, and citrus oils are common in skincare — but they can be problematic for sensitive skin.

Why to avoid them:

• Highly concentrated

• Can trigger irritation or allergic reactions

• Often unnecessary in skincare formulas

“Natural” doesn’t always mean gentle.

6. Sulfates

Commonly found in cleansers and face washes, sulfates create a strong foaming effect.

Examples:

• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

• Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

Why to avoid them:

• Strip natural oils

• Leave skin tight and irritated

• Disrupt the skin barrier

Sensitive skin prefers gentle, low-foam cleansers.

7. Retinoids (Without Proper Introduction)

Retinoids are powerful and effective — but they can be too harsh if introduced too quickly.

Why to be cautious:

• Can cause peeling, redness, and irritation

• Requires slow introduction and barrier support

Sensitive skin should start with low-strength formulas and use them sparingly.

How to Protect Sensitive Skin

Instead of focusing only on what to avoid, look for ingredients that support the skin barrier, such as:

• ceramides

• panthenol

• glycerin

• hyaluronic acid

• centella asiatica

Always patch test new products and introduce them one at a time.