· By Skincare Junkie Inc
5 Skincare Ingredients to Avoid, According to an Award Winning Dermatologist
Because your skincare routine should be smart and safe!
At Skincare Junkie, we believe in results without compromise. Every product we create is backed by science, developed by a board-certified dermatologist, and always formulated with your whole-body health in mind. That’s why we’re proudly free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrance, PEGs—and any other ingredient that doesn’t deserve a spot on your skin.
This week, we’re calling out the villains. These are five ingredients you’ll never find in Skincare Junkie products—and here’s exactly why.
1. Parabens
Preservatives with a problematic side.
Parabens (like methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben) are used to prevent mold and bacteria in beauty products. While that sounds helpful, there’s a darker side: parabens can absorb through the skin, accumulate in tissue, and potentially interfere with your body’s hormones.
Studies have shown that parabens can mimic estrogen—raising concerns about reproductive health, hormonal imbalance, fertility, and even the development of certain cancers, such as breast cancer. Long-chain parabens (propyl-, butyl-, and isobutylparaben) pose the highest risk, and some are now banned in California and the EU.
Even “safer” short-chain parabens, like methylparaben and ethylparaben, have raised red flags in dermatology and public health circles. Bottom line: there are better, cleaner alternatives available, so why risk it?
2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Foamy doesn’t always mean fabulous.
SLS (and its cousin SLES) is a cleansing agent that gives shampoos and cleansers that satisfying lather. But that foamy effect can come at a cost. These sulfates are known irritants—they strip the skin’s natural protective barrier, leading to dryness, redness, and sensitivity. If your skin feels tight after washing, SLS could be the reason.
In hair care, SLS can dry out the scalp and leave strands brittle. And let’s not forget its environmental impact, as it can contribute to water pollution when washed down the drain.
3. Fragrance
The invisible irritant hiding in plain sight.
We all love a good-smelling product—but fragrance is one of the most common allergens in skincare. Whether it’s synthetic or derived from essential oils, fragrance can trigger irritation, itching, and even allergic reactions—especially in sensitive skin types.
What’s worse? Companies don’t have to disclose what’s in their fragrance blends (they’re considered trade secrets). That means you could be reacting to a hidden ingredient and never know it.
That’s why we keep it fragrance-free across the board. Your skin deserves transparency.
4. Phthalates
Hormone disruptors with a PR problem.
Phthalates are often added to personal care products to help scents last longer (yep, they’re hiding in fragrance again). But research has linked phthalates to hormonal disruption, early puberty, fertility issues, and developmental concerns in children. Some studies even associate certain phthalates with an increased risk of certain cancers.
Phthalates can enter your body through skin contact or inhalation—and they’re just as harmful to the environment as they are to your health. Fortunately, many have already been banned in the EU and in children’s products.
We choose not to take chances. Our promise? No phthalates. Ever.
5. PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols)
Penetration enhancers that come with baggage.
PEGs are used in skincare as thickeners and softeners, and to help products absorb into the skin. The problem? PEGs can be contaminated with carcinogenic impurities, and prolonged exposure may lead to skin irritation, respiratory issues, or nervous system effects—especially when left on the skin or used in sprays.
While PEGs are considered “generally safe” at low levels, there are cleaner, safer ingredients that do the same job—without the risk. So we steer clear.
Safe, Effective, and Skin-Loving Alternatives? We’ve Got You.
We get it—most people don’t have a chemistry degree or hours to decode product labels. That’s where we come in. Founded by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, Skincare Junkie holds itself to a higher standard of skincare: clean, safe, science-backed—and always luxurious to use.
Welcome to Drama-Free Skincare
Dermatologist-developed
Hypoallergenic
Fragrance-free
Pregnancy-safe
Vegan & cruelty-free
100% free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, PEGs, and artificial fragrance
Because skincare should be about confidence, clarity, and care—not confusion or compromise.
So go ahead—feed your need for healthy skin, minus the drama.
By Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose