12 Beauty Products That Can Be Damaging If You Overuse Them

12 Beauty Products That Can Be Damaging If You Overuse Them

We all have our list of favorite beauty products. You know, those absolute staples that we use each and every day, and the ones which have become a major part of our beauty routines. But what if those products are actually doing more harm than good? 

Unfortunately, there are certain beauty products that can be damaging if you use them too often. Who knew? But never fear because we're here to educate you! 

1. Self-Tanning Lotion

Self-tanning lotion is great for an instant glow, but it can make certain drier parts of your body (especially hands and feet) appear orange. Stick to self-tanning once a week, or your skin could start peeling.

2. Face Exfoliators

Exfoliation is great, but overusing exfoliating products can cause redness, inflammation, abnormal sensitivity, and flaking of the skin. Limit exfoliation to two or three times a week to protect your skin.

3. Hair Extensions

Although hair extensions are generally safe, some wearers can start to experience hair loss from the bundles tugging at your real hair. This will eventually damage hair follicles, and the hair loss could be permanent. 

4. Whitening Toothpaste

Cosmetic dentist Dr. Sam Sadati reveals, "Overuse of whitening toothpaste can cause wear to the protective layer of tooth enamel and lead to tooth sensitivity. Switch to regular toothpaste and opt for over-the-counter teeth whitening strips instead." 

5. Clarifying Shampoo

Clarifying shampoo is awesome at clearing buildup in hair, but using it too much can start to remove the natural sebum your hair and scalp need to stay healthy. Try using it just twice a month.

6. Volumizing Products

Salon owner Jamie Robinson tells us, "Volumizers that contain alcohol can cause your ends to dry out." Instead, use alcohol-free products and try to only target the roots and mid-lengths of your hair. 

7. Primer

Primers are an integral part of many people's beauty routines, but did you know that most of them are made with silicone? Silicone can clog pores and lead to breakouts, so use your primer with caution!

8. Matte Liquid Lipstick

Matte liquid lipsticks are phenomenal, but they also contain ingredients that cause lips to dry out quickly. Give your pout a break by switching to tinted lip balms every other day or so. 

9. Nail Hardener

Although nail hardeners work well in the short term, overusing them can cause nails to become brittle and even break. Give your nails a rest every so often, and make sure you clean and moisturize them, too!

10. Dry Shampoo

Dry shampoo is unarguably a lifesaver, but using it on a daily basis can cause breakage, and buildup of the product can clog the scalp and reduce hair growth. Try to limit yourself to twice a week.

11. Petroleum Jelly 

Petroleum jelly doesn't actually get absorbed by the skin. Instead, it creates a barrier that keeps moisture locked in, but this barrier can also make skin even drier than before. Only use it in cases of severe irritation. 

12. Eyelash Extensions

Dermatologist Kim Nichols explains, "Eyelash extensions have to be glued on to your real lashes, and that adhesion will eventually break off your real lashes. Limit use of extensions for special occasions only."