When it comes to skincare, we are often told to use natural or organic products for better results.

But, did you know that not all organic substances are good for your skin? Some natural ingredients can cause irritation, inflammation, or even damage to your skin over time.

In this article, we will discuss six organic substances that you should avoid applying on your skin. By being aware of these ingredients, you can make informed decisions on what products to use to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

1. Lemon

Lemon is a popular natural ingredient that is used to brighten and even out the skin tone. However, lemon is highly acidic, and applying it directly to your skin can cause irritation, redness, and even burns.

Moreover, lemon can make your skin sensitive to the sun, and using it before going outside can increase the risk of sunburn and sun damage. If you want to use lemon in your skincare routine, make sure to dilute it properly and use it sparingly.

2. Baking Soda

Baking soda is often used as a natural exfoliant to remove dead skin cells and unclog pores. However, baking soda has a high pH level, and using it regularly can disrupt the skin’s natural pH balance, leading to dryness, irritation, and acne.

Moreover, baking soda can cause microscopic tears in your skin, which can make your skin more susceptible to environmental damage. If you want to exfoliate your skin, use a gentle exfoliant that is specifically designed for skincare.

3. Essential Oils

Essential oils are often used in skincare products for their fragrance and therapeutic properties. However, essential oils can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, photosensitivity, and even chemical burns.

Moreover, some essential oils can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, which can increase the risk of infection and inflammation.

If you want to use essential oils, make sure to dilute them properly and do a patch test before applying them to your skin.

4. Vinegar

Vinegar is often used as a natural toner to balance the skin’s pH level and remove excess oil. However, vinegar is highly acidic, and using it regularly can cause irritation, dryness, and inflammation.

Moreover, vinegar can make your skin sensitive to the sun, and using it before going outside can increase the risk of sunburn and sun damage. If you want to use vinegar in your skincare routine, make sure to dilute it properly and use it sparingly.

5. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a popular natural ingredient that is used for moisturizing and nourishing the skin. However, coconut oil is comedogenic, which means that it can clog pores and cause acne.

Moreover, coconut oil can disrupt the skin’s natural barrier, which can increase the risk of infection and inflammation. If you have oily or acne-prone skin, avoid using coconut oil on your face.

Instead, use a non-comedogenic oil that is specifically designed for skincare.

6. Citrus Oils

Citrus oils, such as orange, grapefruit, and bergamot, are often used in skincare products for their fragrance and germ-fighting properties.

However, citrus oils can cause phototoxicity, a reaction that occurs when the skin is exposed to sunlight after applying a product containing citrus oils.

Phototoxicity can cause redness, blistering, and hyperpigmentation, which can take months to fade away. If you want to use citrus oils in your skincare routine, make sure to avoid sunlight for at least eight hours after applying them to your skin.

Conclusion

Using natural or organic products on your skin can be beneficial, but it is important to be aware of the potential risks and side effects. By avoiding these six organic substances, you can protect your skin from irritation, inflammation, and damage.

If you are unsure about which ingredients to use in your skincare routine, consult a dermatologist or a skincare expert for personalized recommendations.