10 Skin Care Products to Never Put or Use on Your Face

Your face is more delicate than the rest of your body, and not every product is safe to apply on it. Some household or body-care items can cause irritation, breakouts, or even long-term damage.

Below are ten products people commonly use on their faces but should avoid — along with safer alternatives.

1. Household Bleach

Bleach is extremely harsh and can cause chemical burns, irritation, and permanent damage to your skin barrier.

Instead, use gentle cleansers made for the face and never apply cleaning products to your skin.

2. Toothpaste

Some people apply toothpaste to pimples, but it contains strong detergents and fluoride that can irritate or worsen acne.

Use acne treatments with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid instead.

3. Body Soap and Bar Soaps

Body soaps are often too alkaline and strip away natural oils, leaving facial skin dry and irritated.

Opt for mild, pH-balanced facial cleansers.

4. Hair Products

Hair gels, sprays, and oils can clog pores when they touch your skin, causing breakouts along the hairline.

Keep hair products away from your face and choose non-comedogenic formulas if needed.

5. DIY Acid Treatments

Lemon juice, vinegar, and other kitchen acids are unpredictable and can burn or discolor skin.

Use professionally formulated AHA or BHA products for safe exfoliation.

6. Hair Removal Creams

Depilatory creams for the body are too harsh for facial skin and can cause burns or swelling.

Use products specifically designed for facial hair removal, or try threading or waxing.

7. Harsh Scrubs

Scrubs made with walnut shells, sugar, or coffee grounds can create microtears in the skin and worsen sensitivity.

Gentle chemical exfoliants are a safer option for smooth skin.

8. Rubbing Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol dries out skin, disrupts the barrier, and may cause rebound oiliness.

Use alcohol-free toners or dermatologist-approved antiseptics if needed.

9. Nail Glue or Industrial Adhesives

These contain strong chemicals that can irritate or burn skin and should never be applied to the face.

Only use cosmetic-grade adhesives specifically labeled for safe use near the eyes or skin.

10. Expired Cosmetics

Old makeup and skincare can harbor bacteria, lose effectiveness, and trigger breakouts or infections.

Always check expiration dates and replace products regularly.

Tips to Protect Your Face

Takeaway

Not everything safe for your body or home belongs on your face.

Avoiding harsh or inappropriate products helps protect your skin and prevents long-term damage.

Stick to gentle, face-formulated products and seek professional advice for serious concerns.