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Phenoxyethanol is an ingredient in many cosmetics used as a preservative. In the same way that preservatives in food allow them to have a longer shelf life before spoiling, phenoxyethanol preserves the quality and effectiveness of some skincare ingredients that would otherwise spoil or be rendered ineffective when exposed to too much light, temperature changes, or exposure to oxygen.
Phenoxyethanol is a good ingredient in a wide variety of cosmetics and skin care products. It has been shown to have anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties, which makes it a good preservative to use in skin care products to keep them from spoiling or becoming contaminated. It is also used for stabilizing skincare products without the use of parabens. This means that skin care products can include chemical ingredients that deteriorate over time or are ineffective when exposed to sunlight, temperature changes, or oxygen, because the phenoxyethanol acts as a stabilizer.
There aren’t any major drawbacks to using this ingredient. Studies have shown it to be very safe with very few people showing an adverse reaction of any kind. However, as with any topical ointment, it is possible those with sensitive skin or allergic reactions to the ingredient can experience redness, irritation, or allergic rashes from using products with this ingredient.
There are several different types and causes of acne. Cystic acne occurs when pores in your skin are clogged with sebum, dirt, and dead skin cells. This creates a perfect opportunity for the growth of bacteria, which can cause an infection. The infection can grow deeper into the skin, leading to inflammation and redness, causing raised acne bumps (AKA cysts) with pus that can be tender to the touch.
Benzoyl peroxide is a topical agent for fighting bacteria and can be good for some type of cystic acne. Jojoba oil and rosehip oil are also good for reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and keeping in moisture for healthier skin. Ingredients that help exfoliate dead skin cells and increase new skin cell production, such as Vitamin A/Retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, are good for treating cystic acne as well.
The secret to winning the battle against cystic acne is having the right regimen for your skin. Products that are too strong can be irritating and drying, causing your skin to overproduce oil, which leads to more acne. Picking the wrong active ingredients may have no effect. Using the right regimen for your acne type and skin tolerance can effectively clear acne while keeping your skin healthy and balanced.
phenoxyethanol may be effective for cystic acne, but there are many other factors that may affect whether this ingredient would work on your skin or if there are better ingredients that may work for you. Take this skin quiz to find the best ingredients for your skin and build your skincare routine.
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