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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.
A scar can form anywhere the skin is broken deeply enough to damage surrounding skin cells. With acne, most superficial blemishes will heal cleanly, leaving no visible evidence of prior breakouts. However, in the case of cystic acne, when a clogged pore leads to infection that travels deep into the dermis, ruptured cysts can break the follicle wall and cause the infection to damage surrounding skin cells. Collagen helps to repair the damage but leaves the skin more firm and tight than the rest of your skin. Some types of acne scarring leave a concave shape, called a pockmark. Contrary to some belief, not all acne scars are caused by picking or popping your blemishes. Some occur even if the acne is allowed to heal without picking.
To prevent sun damage from making acne scars more visible, it’s best to moisturize daily and wear sunscreen. Additionally, antioxidants protect the skin from free radicals that damage cells and speed up aging. Ingredients and nutrients like acai oil, alpha-lipoic acid, green tea extract, retinol/vitamin A, coenzyme Q10, caffeine, alpha-hydroxy acid and salicylic acid are all beneficial for preventing and reducing acne scarring. Jojoba oil is also good for reducing inflammation, fighting bacteria, and keeping in moisture for healthier skin.
phenoxyethanol may be effective for acne scars, 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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