Be Your Own Skincare Ingredient Checker: What to Know for Your Glow

Have you ever mindlessly applied an eye cream or used a serum and randomly paused to consider… What the heck is in this thing? You’re not alone: more and more shoppers are becoming curious and aware of the ingredients in everything they use.

From household goods and pantry items to skincare products, it’s helpful to understand exactly what you’re consuming or using. For one thing, you may be experiencing allergies and reactions that a simple swap could solve. Plus, it’s smart to avoid harmful chemicals that aren’t necessary to lead a happy, healthy life as much as you can. 

If you want to become your own skincare ingredient checker, you don’t need to return to school to obtain a science degree. Luckily, plenty of resources are available to help you navigate the sometimes-confusing and hard-to-pronounce ingredients found in your beauty products. Here, a beginner’s guide:

Use websites or apps.

So, what is ‘Isopropyl Palmitate’? And ‘Xylitol’? If you’re scratching your head, it’s totally normal. Very few people know every ingredient present in skincare solutions and formulas. And even if you know what it is, how do you know it’s a good thing or a bad thing?

Websites like IncideCoder.com allow you to search for your products and then break down everything that’s inside of the tube or bottle. Then, they rank them — from icky to goodie — to let you know if the ingredient will have a positive or negative impact on your skin. Another trustworthy website is Environmental Working Group (EWG)’s Skin Deep database, which offers the same information. 

If you’re on the go (or you just prefer to use your phone), there are plenty of ingredient-checking apps, too, like Think Dirty, Good Face app and Yuka. 

Talk to your dermatologist.

Rather than Googling or researching yourself, one of the most beneficial resources you have at your disposable is also covered in your insurance: your derm. If you’re concerned about how specific skincare products will impact your unique chemical makeup, turn to the expert you know and trust. Since they understand the in’s-and-out of skin health, they can make an educated recommendation. (And psst: consider talking to them about Covey, which is beloved by dermatologists!)

Take it slow when trying new products.

Your best friend surprises you with an arsenal of beauty and skincare products she loves for your birthday. You’re flattered, grateful and excited — but you should also be hesitant. Particularly if you have sensitive skin, introducing too many new ingredients at once can cause irritation, inflammation and breakouts.

When you’re testing out a newbie, apply a small, dime-sized amount to the inside of your wrist. Then, wait 24 hours. If you do not react, it is likely safe to try it on your skin. Remember to start slow and pay close attention to any problematic symptoms. 

Keep it simple — and effective.

Part of being a skincare ingredient checker is being your own advocate for skin health. You are the champion of your radiance and glow, and one of the easiest ways to put your pores first is to keep your routine simple.

With Covey’s three-step routine, you reap the benefits of a non-stripping cleanser, a potent vitamin C serum, and a hydrating moisturizer. All of our ingredients are dermatologist-approved, gentle, safe for pregnancy, and will provide a healthy complexion. Learn more about our coveted system here.