Is This Ingredient Your Friend or Foe? Take a Fun Skincare Quiz

Take this fun quiz to see if an ingredient is your skin’s best friend or a foe to avoid!

1. Alcohol

Question: Does alcohol help skincare absorb better, or does it strip your skin’s moisture?

Answer: FOE!  Denatured and SD alcohols like ethanol and isopropyl alcohol can weaken your skin barrier and lead to dryness and irritation over time.  But…

 

2. Cetearyl Alcohol and Benzyl Alcohol

Question: Are these alcohols drying like denatured alcohol, or are they safe for sensitive skin?

Answer: FRIEND! Cetearyl alcohol is a fatty alcohol that helps moisturize and condition the skin . Bbenzyl alcohol can be safely used as a natural preservative.

 

3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

Question: Are these common cleansing agents your ticket to squeaky-clean skin, or are they too harsh?

Answer: FOE! SLS and SLES strip away natural oils and can lead to dryness and irritation. Look for sulfate-free alternatives.

 

4. Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben)

Question: Are parabens harmless preservatives or potential irritants?

Answer: FOE! While parabens prevent microbial growth, they can also mimic estrogen and cause irritation.

 

5. Exfoliating Acids in High Concentrations (Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid)

Question: Are strong exfoliating acids your best friend for smooth skin, or should you be cautious?

Answer: FOE (in high concentrations)! Overusing AHAs and BHAs can damage your skin barrier.

 

6. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives (DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15, Diazolidinyl Urea)

Question: Are these preservatives necessary for product safety, or do they come with hidden risks?

Answer: FOE! These preservatives release formaldehyde over time, which can cause allergic reactions and irritation.

 

7. Sodium Hydroxide

Question: Is sodium hydroxide a dangerous irritant, or does it have a useful role in skincare?

Answer: FRIEND!  Sodium hydroxide, also known as lye,  used in tiny amounts to balance pH.

8. Good vs. Bad Acids

Question: Are all acids harsh and irritating, or do some actually benefit sensitive skin?

Answer: FRIEND & FOE! It depends on the type of acid:

• Good Acids (Friend!): Dehydroacetic Acid, Hyaluronic Acid, Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs) – These are gentle, hydrating, and help with skin barrier function.
• Bad Acids (Foe!): High concentrations of Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, and strong Lactic Acid – While useful in moderation, overuse can strip the skin and cause sensitivity.

9. Tocopherol (Vitamin E) and Bisabolol

Question: Are these popular skincare ingredients soothing allies or hidden irritants?

Answer: FRIEND!

• Tocopherol (Vitamin E): A powerful antioxidant that helps protect the skin from free radical damage and supports moisture retention.
• Bisabolol: A naturally derived ingredient from chamomile known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. It’s excellent for calming redness and irritation.

 

10. Paeoniflorin

Question: Is this plant-derived compound a skin savior or a hidden irritant?

Answer: FRIEND! Paeoniflorin, derived from peony root extract, is known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and skin-brightening properties. It helps reduce redness, protect against environmental damage, and soothe irritation.

 

Final Score:

Count how many ingredients you’d consider a foe—for truly sensitive-skin-friendly products, opt for Pure Peony - fragrance-free, hypoallergenic, with paeoniflorin!

Did you learn something new? Share this quiz with a fellow skincare lover!

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