When it comes to skincare and beauty, most of us have a pretty solid routine down. We love our serums, sunscreens, and highlighters that give us that radiant, glowing look. But here’s the thing: while many beauty products help us feel our best, some can actually increase our risk of skin cancer without us even realizing it. It’s not the kind of thing we typically think about when applying that new foundation or smoothing on a silky moisturizer, but a few common ingredients and habits could be putting our skin at risk. Let’s take a closer look at how your beauty routine could be giving you more than just a healthy glow.
One of the biggest culprits hiding in plain sight is fragrances. The fresh, floral, or fruity scents in your lotions, perfumes, and deodorants are lovely, but some of the chemicals used to create these smells can be irritating and make your skin more sensitive to the sun. That means that when you step outside, your skin is more likely to burn or sustain long-term damage from UV rays. In fact, certain fragrance ingredients can even cause allergic reactions that weaken your skin’s ability to defend itself. The solution? Look for beauty products that are labeled “fragrance-free” or “unscented” if you want to keep your skin protected while still smelling great.
Another sneaky risk factor is the use of tanning products. We’ve all heard the appeal of that “sun-kissed glow,” but did you know that some self-tanners and bronzers can be doing more harm than good? While they may give you that bronzed, radiant look without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays, the chemicals in these products can sometimes cause irritation or damage to the skin’s protective barrier. This means that the next time you step into the sun, your skin may be more vulnerable to burning. And let’s be honest, nobody wants to trade one risk for another! Instead of reaching for a bottle of tanning lotion, consider a safer option like a mineral bronzer or natural alternatives that are free from potentially harmful chemicals.
And then there’s the surprising culprit: your makeup brushes. While you might think they’re just harmless beauty tools, makeup brushes can be a breeding ground for bacteria if they’re not cleaned regularly. These bacteria can cause skin irritation or inflammation, which weakens your skin’s defense against harmful UV rays. If you’ve ever used a dirty brush or applied makeup over irritated skin, you might be unknowingly increasing your risk of sun damage and skin cancer. The fix? Clean your brushes regularly and try to avoid applying makeup to broken or irritated skin.
We also have to talk about some of the products we use to remove our makeup at the end of the day. Makeup wipes are super convenient, but many of them contain alcohol or other drying ingredients that strip your skin of moisture and weaken its natural barrier. This leaves your skin more susceptible to sun damage. Instead, try using a gentle, hydrating cleanser or a cleansing balm to remove makeup without drying out your skin. Your skin will thank you, and you’ll be keeping it hydrated and happy!
And lastly, let’s not forget sunscreen. We all know that sunscreen is a must, but many of us skip it when applying makeup, or we only use it on sunny days. The reality is that sunscreen should be a part of your daily routine — rain or shine, indoors or outdoors. Even if your makeup contains SPF, it might not be enough to offer full protection. Make sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 as the first step in your beauty routine, and then follow up with your favorite makeup products. Think of it as your first line of defense against skin cancer, no matter what.
Your beauty routine should make you feel amazing, but it’s important to remember that some of the very products we use to enhance our look can also put our skin at risk. By being mindful of the ingredients in your beauty products, cleaning your tools, and sticking to sun protection, you can continue to glow while keeping your skin healthy and safe. So, go ahead and pamper yourself — just make sure your routine includes the right steps to protect your skin from hidden risks.
