When it comes to taking care of our face, we often turn to natural materials, believing that they are safe and beneficial for our skin.

While some natural ingredients can indeed provide great benefits, there are others that can be harmful or irritating to the delicate skin on our faces. It’s important to be aware of these materials and avoid using them on your face. In this article, we will highlight six natural materials that you should steer clear of when it comes to your facial skincare routine.

1. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is a popular DIY skincare ingredient due to its exfoliating and brightening properties. However, it is highly acidic and can disrupt the natural pH balance of the skin.

Direct application of lemon juice can cause irritation, dryness, and even chemical burns. If you want to reap the benefits of lemon, opt for skincare products that contain a controlled amount of lemon extract instead.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is often used as a natural exfoliant and can be found in many homemade face masks and scrubs. However, it is too harsh for the delicate skin on our faces.

Baking soda has a high pH level and can disrupt the skin’s natural moisture barrier, leading to dryness and irritation. Instead, choose gentle exfoliants specifically formulated for facial use.

3. Essential Oils

Essential oils have gained popularity in skincare due to their various benefits and pleasant aromas. However, they can be highly concentrated and may cause skin sensitization or allergic reactions.

Some essential oils, such as citrus oils or lavender oil, can also cause photosensitivity when exposed to sunlight. It’s important to properly dilute essential oils and perform a patch test before applying them to your face. Alternatively, look for skincare products that already contain diluted and tested amounts of essential oils.

4. Sugar Scrubs

Sugar scrubs are often used to exfoliate the skin and remove dead cells. While they can be effective on the body, they are too abrasive for facial skin. The granules of sugar can cause micro-tears and irritation, leading to redness and inflammation.

Instead, consider using gentler exfoliating ingredients such as jojoba beads or rice powder, specifically designed for facial use.

5. Toothpaste

Toothpaste is sometimes recommended as a quick fix for pimples due to its drying and antibacterial properties. However, toothpaste is not formulated for use on the face, and its ingredients may be too harsh for the skin.

Toothpaste often contains menthol, baking soda, or alcohol, which can lead to dryness, irritation, and even chemical burns. It’s best to stick to skincare products specifically designed to treat acne.

6. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a common spice used in DIY face masks due to its antibacterial properties. However, cinnamon is a known skin irritant and can cause redness, irritation, and burning sensations, especially for those with sensitive skin.

If you want to incorporate the benefits of cinnamon into your skincare routine, opt for skincare products that contain a controlled and safe amount of this ingredient.

Conclusion

While natural materials can offer various benefits for skincare, it’s important to be cautious and knowledgeable about their potential risks.

Lemon juice, baking soda, essential oils, sugar scrubs, toothpaste, and cinnamon are all natural materials that should be avoided when it comes to your facial skincare routine. Instead, opt for skincare products that are specifically formulated for the delicate skin on your face, and always perform patch tests before incorporating new ingredients into your routine.