5 Popular Ingredients That Are Sabotaging Your Skin

In the world of skincare, big promises and pretty packaging can make it easy to fall for trending ingredients. But here’s the truth: just because something is popular doesn’t mean it’s good for your skin.  

Many over-the-counter products are filled with fillers, irritants, and outdated additives that can quietly undermine your skin barrier or trigger breakouts. At MiQuest, we do things differently. Our prescription skin care is designed around you - not a mass-market trend.

In this blog, we’ll explore the 5 popular ingredients that are sabotaging your skin without you even realising it.  

#1: Parabens  

Parabens are widely used as preservatives to prolong shelf life. You’ll find them in everything from moisturisers to cleansers, thanks to their ability to prevent mould and bacteria growth.  

But they come with a downside: parabens can mimic oestrogen in the body, disrupting hormones and possibly irritating sensitive skin. Even low levels, especially when used in combination (like methylparaben and propylparaben), raise concern. So, if you’re already managing hormonal conditions like rosacea, using a prescription cream for rosacea without additional irritants is a far safer choice.

#2: Sulphates (SLS/SLES)

Sulphates are the cleansing agents behind the satisfying lather in your face wash or shampoo. But while that foam might feel like it's working, it’s actually doing damage. Sulphates strip away your skin’s natural oils, weakening the barrier, and leaving it dry, tight, and susceptible to irritation.  

For those dealing with dull skin, a compromised barrier only makes things worse. A gentle, personalised cleanser that respects the needs of your skin is a better route to a healthy glow.  

#3: Synthetic Fragrances  

Fragrance is often listed vaguely as “parfum” or “fragrance” on the label, but this one word can contain hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. These compounds can trigger allergies, cause irritation, and in some cases, even interfere with hormone function.  

If your skincare smells strong, it could be doing much more harm than good – especially for acne-prone skin. Choosing an acne removal cream that skips synthetic scents in favour of clinically backed actives is always a safer bet.  

#4: Mineral Oil and Petrolatum Derivatives  

These ingredients are extremely common in moisturisers because they create a smooth and occlusive layer. But while they lock in moisture, they can also trap bacteria and impurities, which is problematic for oily or acne-prone skin.  

Over time, this can lead to congestion and breakouts. If you’re seeking long-term clarity, ditch the filler and choose formulations that are built around active ingredients, like a prescription pigmentation treatment tailored to the real needs of your skin.  

#5: Formaldehyde Releasers

These ingredients release small amounts of formaldehyde over time to keep products bacteria-free. However, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and skin irritant. Even minimal exposure can trigger reactions, especially in sensitive skin.  

At MiQuest, we avoid all unnecessary fillers, prioritising prescription actives proven to treat concerns like hyperpigmentation, acne, and ageing – all without hidden risks.  

Choose Better with MiQuest  

Popular doesn’t always mean effective – or even safe. These common skincare additives could be undermining your efforts to get clear, healthy, and confident skin. At MiQuest, we take a different approach. Our prescription skin care is built around clinically proven actives and real personalisation - no irritants, no guesswork, no empty promises.  

Ready to swap confusion for confidence? Start your MiQuest skin consultation for just £2.99/month and get a formula free from hidden culprits - designed just for you.