In recent years, the skincare sector has seen an increase in the number of brands selling organic and natural skincare products. However, the majority of these products are harmful to the skin.
According to a 2022 report, Nigerian women are the largest consumers of these creams and lotions, some of which have been shown to be hazardous to the skin and health in general.
While getting your skincare products, here are red flags to avoid.
- Products with missing ingredients list
Skincare products with an unclear ingredient list raise serious concerns and should be avoided.
If a product is genuine, it should have an ingredients list that details how it was created — what is there to hide?
Without an ingredients list, it will be difficult to determine whether the product is suitable for your skin or contains any dangerous components. This can result in skin rashes, allergies, and other negative consequences.
- Skincare products without regulatory approvals
If the product is manufactured in Nigeria, avoid products that lack regulatory authorization or certifications from relevant health authorities such as NAFDAC.
If a product has been approved, it has satisfied the safety and quality requirements established by these authorities. As a result, the lack of regulatory approval means that there is no guarantee of the product’s effectiveness and that it may have undesirable effects when used.
When purchasing Nigeria-made skincare goods, make sure to look for the NAFDAC number. Because it is now quite simple for anyone to set up a social media account as a skincare brand or seller without adhering to the relevant rules.
- Skincare products with unrealistic or magical result claims
‘It clears acne in 7 days’ and ‘It brightens your face in 3 days’ are common marketing claims for most ‘organic’ skincare products.
However, great glowing skin does not develop overnight; it is a long process that demands patience and effort.
So, be wary of items that promise miraculous results because they lack study and data.
Choose skincare products that are tailored to your specific needs and are supported by credible claims.
- ‘All in one/ Multipurpose’ skincare products
Any skincare product with this ingredient should be avoided.
A product that serves multiple functions may appear to be economically advantageous to you. However, it is odd that only one product addresses acne, hyperpigmentation, and sun protection – how?
Using many active chemicals in a single product can impair its efficacy and potentially create severe responses.
- Skincare products that claim to change your complexion
Because the major goal of skincare is to achieve a beautiful and even skin tone, products that claim dramatic changes in complexion should raise red flags.
Instead of products that level out skin tone, most organic skincare brands now sell skin whitening or lightening products.
It should be noted that these skin-lightening or whitening chemicals can be harmful. Hydroquinone and mercury, for example, have been linked to skin irritation, sensitivity, and even major health problems.
- Skincare products without expiry date
Customers may be harmed by skincare products that lack important information such as expiry dates.
The expiry date is critical for determining the product’s shelf life and ensuring its efficacy and safety.
If a product does not contain an expiry date, it is difficult to know if it is still safe to use.
Using outdated skincare products can also cause skin irritation and allergic responses.
Prioritize goods with proven efficacy, real ingredients, and transparent marketing tactics to achieve your desired skin objective. When required, seek the advice of a dermatologist.
