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Skincare has officially entered an era where interrogation is must. Even a casual ask for product recommendations from a skincare-loving friend turns into a full-blown cross examination. And just when you think you know the answers to “what’s your skin type?”, “how often do you exfoliate?” and “any sensitivities?”, they pull out the big guns—sodium laureth sulphate, parabens and other ingredients that sound more like spells than skincare ingredients.
And then, by the time they finally name a product, you’re already Googling everything yourself.
With all the information floating on the internet, some common players found in our formulations—like sulphates, parabens and fragrance—are now facing scrutiny. The modern skincare enthusiast is questioning their role in serums, moisturisers and beyond.
To help decode what really doesn’t work and what may be an ally, we asked Dr Jaishree Sharad to sift fear from fact.
The word ‘parabens’ sparks a cascade of thoughts. On one hand, these preservatives are lauded for their ability to ward off mould and bacteria in beauty products. On the other, they face heavy scrutiny for their potential to mimic oestrogen, raising concerns about hormone disruption. While health authorities mention that small amounts are safe, the clean beauty movement has spurred a shift towards paraben-free formulations—sometimes more as a leap of faith than an informed choice.
“Parabens work as preservatives by being anti-microbial,” Dr Sharad tells us. No surprises there. But here’s the real kicker: “They’re the second most-widely used ingredient in cosmetics, after water.” With such mass usage, the inevitable question arises—are parabens really bad? Dr Sharad clears the air. “The biggest myth is that parabens as preservatives in topical cosmetics are endocrine disruptors or carcinogenic. But actually, there’s no direct causal link,” she explains.
However, the clean beauty trend has already nudged countless consumers towards paraben-free alternatives. When asked if a switch is necessary, she says, “There’s a misconception that natural is always safer. Parabens are highly effective preservatives with a low risk of causing allergies.”
Still, she concedes that clean beauty has developed effective paraben-free options. “As long as they work, they’re fine. But there’s not much to gain by avoiding parabens altogether.”
It’s all suds and science when it comes to sulphates. Loved for their rich, foamy lather, ingredients like sodium lauryl sulphate are powerhouse cleansers. But while they offer that coveted deep-clean feel, they are also known for stripping off natural oils, leaving some skin types parched or irritated. The sulphate debate has only grown louder with the rise of clean beauty.
According to Dr Sharad, the conversation around sulphates needs nuance. “Sulphates, like sodium laureth sulphate, are surfactants. They’re effective cleansing agents,” she explains. And while fear around them runs rampant, she emphasises, “Not all sulphates are irritating; and they’re non-carcinogenic. However, people with rosacea, eczema, contact dermatitis or sensitive skin should avoid sulphate-based cleansers.”
But for oily skin? Mild sulphates in small amounts could be a game-changer. Ultimately, it’s all about what your skin needs. “Choosing a sulphate-free cleanser is entirely dependent on the consumer,” she concludes.
For some, a faint whisper of scent in their skincare routine feels like an indulgence. For others, it’s a red flag that gives rise to sensitivity and irritation. In today’s beauty landscape, transparency is the new luxury, with many leaning towards naturally derived fragrances or fragrance-free options crafted for sensitive skin. But as the debates grow louder, one question lingers: can fragrance-led skincare exist without consequence?
“Fragrances are the leading allergens in cosmetics,” Dr Sharad says, debunking the myth that they’re inert. “The risk is higher with leave-on products like serums and moisturisers,” she warns. Fragrance allergens, the expert notes, can lead to contact dermatitis, especially in dry or sensitive skin types.
So how do you know if your skin can handle it? “Always do a patch test and wait for 48 hours. If you notice redness or swelling, avoid the product,” she advises. And what about the hype around natural fragrances? “Another myth is that natural fragrances don’t irritate the skin,” she explains. “Even essential oils can cause allergies.”
When it comes to beauty ingredients, it’s tempting to put a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ label, but the reality is far more nuanced. As Dr Sharad aptly concludes, “Parabens? Totally fine unless you’re allergic. Sulphates? Not as harmful as they seem but can irritate sensitive skin. Fragrance in skincare products? A personal choice—lighter options are often safer.” Our takeaway? Know your skin, do your homework and don’t let the hype decide your routine.
The word ‘parabens’ sparks a cascade of thoughts. On one hand, these preservatives are lauded for their ability to ward off mould and bacteria in beauty products. On the other, they face heavy scrutiny for their potential to mimic oestrogen, raising concerns about hormone disruption. While health authorities mention that small amounts are safe, the clean beauty movement has spurred a shift towards paraben-free formulations—sometimes more as a leap of faith than an informed choice.
“Parabens work as preservatives by being anti-microbial,” Dr Sharad tells us. No surprises there. But here’s the real kicker: “They’re the second most-widely used ingredient in cosmetics, after water.” With such mass usage, the inevitable question arises—are parabens really bad? Dr Sharad clears the air. “The biggest myth is that parabens as preservatives in topical cosmetics are endocrine disruptors or carcinogenic. But actually, there’s no direct causal link,” she explains.
However, the clean beauty trend has already nudged countless consumers towards paraben-free alternatives. When asked if a switch is necessary, she says, “There’s a misconception that natural is always safer. Parabens are highly effective preservatives with a low risk of causing allergies.”
Still, she concedes that clean beauty has developed effective paraben-free options. “As long as they work, they’re fine. But there’s not much to gain by avoiding parabens altogether.”
It’s all suds and science when it comes to sulphates. Loved for their rich, foamy lather, ingredients like sodium lauryl sulphate are powerhouse cleansers. But while they offer that coveted deep-clean feel, they are also known for stripping off natural oils, leaving some skin types parched or irritated. The sulphate debate has only grown louder with the rise of clean beauty.
According to Dr Sharad, the conversation around sulphates needs nuance. “Sulphates, like sodium laureth sulphate, are surfactants. They’re effective cleansing agents,” she explains. And while fear around them runs rampant, she emphasises, “Not all sulphates are irritating; and they’re non-carcinogenic. However, people with rosacea, eczema, contact dermatitis or sensitive skin should avoid sulphate-based cleansers.”
But for oily skin? Mild sulphates in small amounts could be a game-changer. Ultimately, it’s all about what your skin needs. “Choosing a sulphate-free cleanser is entirely dependent on the consumer,” she concludes.
For some, a faint whisper of scent in their skincare routine feels like an indulgence. For others, it’s a red flag that gives rise to sensitivity and irritation. In today’s beauty landscape, transparency is the new luxury, with many leaning towards naturally derived fragrances or fragrance-free options crafted for sensitive skin. But as the debates grow louder, one question lingers: can fragrance-led skincare exist without consequence?
“Fragrances are the leading allergens in cosmetics,” Dr Sharad says, debunking the myth that they’re inert. “The risk is higher with leave-on products like serums and moisturisers,” she warns. Fragrance allergens, the expert notes, can lead to contact dermatitis, especially in dry or sensitive skin types.
So how do you know if your skin can handle it? “Always do a patch test and wait for 48 hours. If you notice redness or swelling, avoid the product,” she advises. And what about the hype around natural fragrances? “Another myth is that natural fragrances don’t irritate the skin,” she explains. “Even essential oils can cause allergies.”
When it comes to beauty ingredients, it’s tempting to put a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ label, but the reality is far more nuanced. As Dr Sharad aptly concludes, “Parabens? Totally fine unless you’re allergic. Sulphates? Not as harmful as they seem but can irritate sensitive skin. Fragrance in skincare products? A personal choice—lighter options are often safer.” Our takeaway? Know your skin, do your homework and don’t let the hype decide your routine.
The word ‘parabens’ sparks a cascade of thoughts. On one hand, these preservatives are lauded for their ability to ward off mould and bacteria in beauty products. On the other, they face heavy scrutiny for their potential to mimic oestrogen, raising concerns about hormone disruption. While health authorities mention that small amounts are safe, the clean beauty movement has spurred a shift towards paraben-free formulations—sometimes more as a leap of faith than an informed choice.
“Parabens work as preservatives by being anti-microbial,” Dr Sharad tells us. No surprises there. But here’s the real kicker: “They’re the second most-widely used ingredient in cosmetics, after water.” With such mass usage, the inevitable question arises—are parabens really bad? Dr Sharad clears the air. “The biggest myth is that parabens as preservatives in topical cosmetics are endocrine disruptors or carcinogenic. But actually, there’s no direct causal link,” she explains.
However, the clean beauty trend has already nudged countless consumers towards paraben-free alternatives. When asked if a switch is necessary, she says, “There’s a misconception that natural is always safer. Parabens are highly effective preservatives with a low risk of causing allergies.”
Still, she concedes that clean beauty has developed effective paraben-free options. “As long as they work, they’re fine. But there’s not much to gain by avoiding parabens altogether.”
It’s all suds and science when it comes to sulphates. Loved for their rich, foamy lather, ingredients like sodium lauryl sulphate are powerhouse cleansers. But while they offer that coveted deep-clean feel, they are also known for stripping off natural oils, leaving some skin types parched or irritated. The sulphate debate has only grown louder with the rise of clean beauty.
According to Dr Sharad, the conversation around sulphates needs nuance. “Sulphates, like sodium laureth sulphate, are surfactants. They’re effective cleansing agents,” she explains. And while fear around them runs rampant, she emphasises, “Not all sulphates are irritating; and they’re non-carcinogenic. However, people with rosacea, eczema, contact dermatitis or sensitive skin should avoid sulphate-based cleansers.”
But for oily skin? Mild sulphates in small amounts could be a game-changer. Ultimately, it’s all about what your skin needs. “Choosing a sulphate-free cleanser is entirely dependent on the consumer,” she concludes.
For some, a faint whisper of scent in their skincare routine feels like an indulgence. For others, it’s a red flag that gives rise to sensitivity and irritation. In today’s beauty landscape, transparency is the new luxury, with many leaning towards naturally derived fragrances or fragrance-free options crafted for sensitive skin. But as the debates grow louder, one question lingers: can fragrance-led skincare exist without consequence?
“Fragrances are the leading allergens in cosmetics,” Dr Sharad says, debunking the myth that they’re inert. “The risk is higher with leave-on products like serums and moisturisers,” she warns. Fragrance allergens, the expert notes, can lead to contact dermatitis, especially in dry or sensitive skin types.
So how do you know if your skin can handle it? “Always do a patch test and wait for 48 hours. If you notice redness or swelling, avoid the product,” she advises. And what about the hype around natural fragrances? “Another myth is that natural fragrances don’t irritate the skin,” she explains. “Even essential oils can cause allergies.”
When it comes to beauty ingredients, it’s tempting to put a ‘good’ or ‘bad’ label, but the reality is far more nuanced. As Dr Sharad aptly concludes, “Parabens? Totally fine unless you’re allergic. Sulphates? Not as harmful as they seem but can irritate sensitive skin. Fragrance in skincare products? A personal choice—lighter options are often safer.” Our takeaway? Know your skin, do your homework and don’t let the hype decide your routine.
