How to choose the right shower gel and not to harm your skin

Shower gel is not the kind of thing most people spend a lot of time choosing. A pleasant smell is a great option, half of the components in the composition are still incomprehensible. But the right care is necessary not only for the skin of the face. How not to fall for the tricks of marketers and choose the right shower gel, we understand together with cosmetologist Elena Gretsova.

How does shower gel affect the skin?

The gel gently cleanses the surface of the skin from impurities and excess sebum due to the surfactants (surfactants) included in the composition. It also promotes deep cleansing and cellular renewal.

If the gel contains mostly natural ingredients, only authorized surfactants and additives, it can be used daily. However, if a person has skin diseases that are accompanied by a violation of skin integrity (e.g., psoriasis or eczema), the frequency of use should be taken more seriously. It is best to choose the means individually together with your doctor.

Can I do without gel?

Washing with plain water is not a substitute for a full-fledged cleansing. Even if you use loofahs and sponges. It is necessary to use a foaming agent.

Interesting fact: nowadays you can find special sponges pre-soaked with gel. As a rule, they are designed for a month of use. They cope with the task no worse than conventional means.

Is there a significant difference between gel and soap?

To begin with, it is worth noting that soap and gel have different acidity. And therefore, unlike ordinary soap, shower gel does not dry the skin so much. Therefore, the remedy, according to the expert, is suitable for daily use.

How to choose a shower gel?

First, it is worth paying attention to the presence of harmful toxic substances – parabens (methylparaben, ethylparaben and propylparaben), as they have a negative impact on the health of the skin and the body as a whole.

Secondly, it is important to look carefully at the components that stand immediately after the word “composition”. Since the gradation goes from the highest percentage of content to the lowest, the substances that are listed first, and will be the main components of the gel. According to the expert, very often some cosmetics with promising advertising claims that the composition of their product is natural: the gel is made exclusively from plant components. However, when used, the benefits are not felt. This is because plant extracts are in the last places in the composition, which means that there are very few of them in the product.

Thirdly, a good gel should contain mild surfactants that do not irritate the skin. Products with harsh substances, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, should not be used. To date, there are many scientific articles proving its harmful and destructive effect on the skin.

When choosing a gel, it is better to give preference to professional means. As a rule, their composition is the most verified and safe, with a high content of herbal, moisturizing and nourishing ingredients and without harmful substances. It is also important to remember that 100% natural shower gels do not exist. To prevent the product from spoiling, preservatives are added to it as a minimum.