Does phenoxyethanol work on dark spots ?


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PHENOXYETHANOL

What is phenoxyethanol?

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.

What is it best for? 

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.

What is the drawback?

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.


DARK SPOTS

What are dark spots?

Dark spots on your skin is known as hyperpigmentation, age spots, or liver spots.  There are several reasons you might experience hyperpigmentation, but those we are referring to today are those that are caused by acne scarring or sun exposure.  Dark spots are most common on the face, the shoulders, and the back. There are some dark spots that might appear as a side effect of certain medications. Dark spots are typically harmless, but we always recommend conferring with your dermatologist if you’re experiencing a larger-than-usual area of dark spots, or if they are changing in color, thickness, or appearance in any way.  

What ingredients are best for dark spots?

Hydroquinone, an exfoliator that increases cell turnover to reveal newer skin such as retinol, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid, a melanogenesis inhibitor that stops melanosomes from transferring newly produced melanin to other skin cells (such as vitamin C), and vitamin E.   (Vitamin E is an antioxidant well known for soothing properties, helping protect from damaging sun while moisturizing and healing skin cells).


Does phenoxyethanol work on dark spots ?

phenoxyethanol may be effective for dark spots, 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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