Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim from Üsküdar University, Vocational School of Health Services, made evaluations within the scope of May 1-31 Skin Cancer Awareness Month.
Scientific content and formulation are more important than advertising!
Chemical Engineer Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim stated that cosmetic products are used today not only for aesthetic purposes but also to support skin health. “However, what is important here is the content, formulation, and suitability of the product for the individual's skin type. Some cosmetic products support the skin barrier and maintain moisture balance, while others only provide a temporary aesthetic effect. Especially active ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramide are among the substances that support the skin barrier and show a biological effect. In contrast, light-reflecting pigments or temporary firming products mostly provide a cosmetic appearance. Therefore, in the evaluation of cosmetic products, scientific content and formulation are more important than advertising,” she said.
SPF products are not only aesthetic but also protective biochemical products…
Emphasizing that sun protection products are among the cosmetic products whose scientific effectiveness has been most strongly proven, Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim said, “UV rays can cause DNA damage, premature aging, and long-term skin cancer. Regularly used SPF products protect the skin by absorbing or reflecting UV rays and can reduce the risks of skin cancers such as melanoma. Therefore, SPF products are not only aesthetic but also protective biochemical products. Especially, choosing a sun protector suitable for one's skin type and using it correctly is of great importance.”
Tanning, the skin's defense response to UV damage
Noting that the widespread perception of “healthy tanning” in society is not scientifically correct, Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim stated, “Because tanning is actually the skin's defense response to UV damage. UV rays cause DNA damage in skin cells, and in response, melanin production increases. Although this provides a tanned appearance in the short term, in the long term it can increase the risk of wrinkles, spots, and skin cancer. Although self-tanner products that provide a tanned appearance without UV are available today, more scientific research is needed regarding the long-term effects of these products.”
Unconscious product use can damage the skin barrier
Stating that the use of cosmetic products with wrong combinations can negatively affect skin health, Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim said, “Especially products containing intense perfume, essential oils, high-concentration acids, and incorrect combinations of active ingredients can lead to irritation, sensitivity, and barrier disruption in the skin. Using retinol, AHA, BHA, and high-concentration vitamin C serums simultaneously can irritate the skin. Furthermore, steroids found in unregistered or vaguely-content products, or uncontrolled hydroquinone use, can cause serious dermatological problems. The important point here is that products should be used at the correct dosage and appropriate frequency.”
Natural product does not always mean safe
Stating that interest in “natural” and “organic” labeled products has increased in recent years, Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim said, “The idea that these products are automatically safer is incorrect. Natural ingredients can also cause allergies, irritation, or phototoxicity. The fundamental factor determining safety from a scientific perspective is not that the product is natural, but that it is well-formulated. Therefore, in product selection, attention should be paid not only to marketing statements but also to scientific data and expert opinions.”
Noting that the use of products not suitable for one's skin type can also lead to significant dermatological problems, Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim said, “Wrong product selection can increase skin dryness, acne, sensitivity, eczema, redness, and pigmentation issues. Especially, the unconscious use of intensely active ingredient products recommended on social media can damage the skin barrier. Therefore, it is very important for individuals to know their own skin type and seek expert support in product selection.”
Constantly trying new products is risky!
Stating that the main goal in a daily skin care routine is to protect the skin's biological barrier, Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim continued:
“A good routine should consist of gentle cleansing, appropriate moisturizing, and regular use of sunscreen. Over-exfoliating, constantly trying new products, or unscientific practices spread on social media such as applying lemon or doing baking soda peels can put skin health at risk. Furthermore, using too many products simultaneously does not always yield better results. Often, a minimal, balanced, and sustainable care routine provides healthier outcomes.”
Beware of trends!
Stating that cosmetic products recommended by influencers on social media should be carefully evaluated, Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim said, “While these recommendations may not be entirely wrong, they often consist of a combination of scientific data, personal experience, and marketing strategies. Especially sponsored content and products promising miraculous results can mislead consumers. Unconscious product use due to influencer effect can lead to irritation, sensitivity, and long-term damage to the skin. Therefore, in cosmetic product selection, a scientific approach should be prioritized over social media trends; support should be sought from dermatologists, pharmacists, or experts in the field. Because every skin is different, and the right product selection requires personalized evaluation.”
Marketing-driven choices can negatively affect skin health
Noting that cosmetic products can support skin health when used correctly, Asst. Prof. Öznur Eyilcim concluded, “However, unconscious use and marketing-driven choices can negatively affect skin health. A healthy approach is to create a skin care routine that is suitable for one's skin type, scientifically based, balanced, and supported by expert opinion. Especially today, with the intense influence of social media, it is of great importance that product selections are made not only based on influencer recommendations but also in line with evaluations made by dermatologists, pharmacists, or experts in the field. Because every skin structure is different, and the right product selection requires a personalized approach. Seeking expert opinion is the most reliable approach both to prevent skin problems that may arise due to incorrect product use and to protect skin health in the long term.”
