When you purchase skincare products, you will notice that they all claim to provide the best results and that their product has the most to offer; trying to convince you to purchase it. One of the common catchphrases of these products is that they can “lock in” the moisture. This gives the impression that your skin will remain moisturised throughout the day. However, using these products may have several downsides, and these need to be considered to help you make an informed choice about your skincare products. Many of the products that attempt to keep moisture on your skin for longer amounts of time will use petroleum as a base. Petroleum is a very thick substance and will remain on the skin for a long period of time.
The Petroleum Problem
The main issue with using petroleum-based products is that petroleum clogs the pores. Having clear pores is important because the pores are the tiny holes through which your skin “breathes”. When the pores become clogged, the skin is more prone to irritation, skin problems, acne, pimples and other types of breakouts and blemishes.
While it may seem like petroleum is doing a good thing, it could be causing more harm. Although your skin will feel nice and moisturised when you are using petroleum-based products, the skin is actually being suffocated in a way. Petroleum repels water and doesn’t wash off very easily. This means that it will continue to block your pores, and can lead to more frequent and recurrent breakouts, which may become a serious issue. Even if you wash your face and you think it is totally clean, there are still dead skin cells, dirt, and other debris. When you add petroleum to this mix, then you are keeping all of that dirt and debris so that it stays against the skin with no escape, leading to greater irritation over time.
The Other Petroleum Problem
Some types of petroleum can be carcinogenic, which means that certain forms of cancer have been linked to the use of some types of petroleum products. However, certain products, such as Vaseline, have been carefully purified. However, not all of the petroleum used in skin care products will have gone through this purification process.
What many people don’t understand is that there are different methods of purification and some of them are not as good as others. As a result, some petroleum could be linked to cancer, and that is certainly not something you want to put on your skin.
A Third Concern
Finally, there is one more concern that is rare, but it could happen if you are not careful. Many people put petroleum type products on their nose when they have a cold and it becomes dry and cracked. However, petroleum has been linked to lipid pneumonia. So, while the chances of petroleum getting into the lungs may seem very rare, if you continually put these skin care products on your face, then there is a potential risk, and it may be best to avoid petroleum products for this purpose.
The next time you purchase a skin care product, take a look at it very carefully. Consider whether or not it contains petroleum. While this may seem like a good idea since it can help keep your skin moisturised, there are problems you have to consider. Petroleum will lock in everything to your skin, making it where your pores simply cannot breathe. Additionally, in some forms, it has been linked to cancer and pneumonia. This may not be the best product to use to care for your skin, and you may wish to consider using petroleum-free products.
If you require personalised skincare based for your specific skin type contact your local doctor, who will arrange for you to see a Dermatologist. We‘ll provide you with a straightforward, efficient and very effective treatment plan targeted to your concerns. Contact us today.
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