A dermatologist-tested formula, Neutrogena Oil-Free Moisture is an oil-free moisturizer for sensitive skin users. To our surprise, it has an ingredient that prohibited in cosmetic products in the EU. This article will expose the ingredient and the effects it has on your skin.
Who are Neutrogena?
Founded in 1930 by Emanuel Stolaroff, Neutrogena is an American brand of skin care, hair care and cosmetic products. In 1930, it started off as a small company called Natone. In 1954, Stolaroff met Edmond Fromont, a Belgian Chemist and acquired his patented formula of a mild clear soap that cleared the skin without drying it, in the US. The company’s name was officially changed to Neutrogena in 1962.
Johnson & Johnson acquired Neutrogena for $924 million in 1994. Neutrogena was able to boost it sales and enter newer markets because of Johnson & Johnson’s international network. The company today has major subsidiaries in Canada, United Kingdom and South Korea, with Neutrogena products being distributed in over 70 countries.
Product Description
Neutrogena Skin Oil-Free Moisture is a lightweight, water-based moisturizer that provides gentle yet effective moisturization for even the most sensitive skin. This feather-light, dermatologist-tested formula vanishes into skin; without leaving it greasy or shiny. Extra gentle and irritant-free, it is ideal for sensitive skin. And it contains no alcohol, which can dry skin. Skin is left feeling soft, smooth and moisturized.
- Non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Use with Neutrogena® Ultra Gentle Daily Cleanser
Reference: Neutrogena
Product Analysis
Neutrogena Skin Oil-Free Moisture has a number of alarming ingredients that should be highlighted. Though the one that is ranked the highest in the 1Source system and is a substance that is prohibited in cosmetic products in the EU is cyclomethicone.
Cyclomethicone
Cyclomethicone has multiple functions. It can be used an emollient that softens and soothes the skin, while also acting as a humectant that allows increase skin hydration. Despite the functions of the ingredients, it has a number of safety hazards that should be noted. It can cause skin and serious eye irritation if used. Through prolonged or repeated exposure, it can cause damage to organs.
Ethyl Paraben
Ethyl Paraben is an antimicrobial preservative that actively kills and inhibits the growth of unwanted microorganisms which may be harmful. It is another ingredient in the Neutrogena Sensitive Skin Oil-Free Moisture that can cause skin and serious eye irritation. It can also cause allergic skin reaction. For those with asthma symptoms, it can cause breathing difficulties for you.
Since January 2020, the Republic of Palau issued a new law that banned skincare products containing Ethyl Paraben as it is a known environmental pollutant chemical that can be incredibly toxic to juvenile stages of many wildlife species in the ocean.
Should I use Neutrogena Skin Oil-Free Moisture?
I would avoid using this one. It has an ingredient that is banned from EU in cosmetic products and another ingredient in Parabens that are known pollutant chemicals. For sensitive skin and Eczema users, it is best to find an alternative product that has a better set of ingredients that can be used to treat your skin.
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