5 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Dog’s Skincare Products

As pet parents, we all want what’s best for our furry friends — from the food they eat to the products we use on their skin. Did you know that some common ingredients found in dog skincare products can actually do more harm than good? If your pup struggles with skin irritation, allergies, or itchy spots, it might be time to take a closer look at what’s in their wipes, shampoos, or creams.

Here are 5 ingredients to avoid in your dog’s skincare products — and what you should use instead!

1. Aloe Vera 

Surprise! Even though aloe is known for soothing human skin, it’s not always safe for dogs. Aloe can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues if ingested — which is likely when dogs lick their skin after application.

2. Lanolin

Lanolin is a greasy substance from sheep’s wool, often used in moisturizers. While it can be hydrating, lanolin can cause allergic reactions in sensitive dogs and may clog pores, trapping bacteria and making skin issues worse.

3. Artificial Fragrances

That sweet scent may smell nice to you, but fragrances can be harsh on your dog’s skin. They often contain chemicals that cause dryness, itching, or even allergic reactions. Dogs have a much stronger sense of smell than we do, and they don’t need those added scents.

4. Parabens

Parabens are used as preservatives in many cosmetic products, but they’re linked to hormonal imbalances and skin irritation in dogs. Avoid anything that lists “methylparaben,” “propylparaben,” or “butylparaben.”

5. Tea Tree Oil

While tea tree oil is often praised for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, it’s extremely dangerous for dogs. Even small amounts can be toxic, especially if applied directly to the skin or ingested during licking. Symptoms of tea tree oil poisoning include weakness, tremors, vomiting, and even coma in severe cases. It's just not worth the risk — steer clear of tea tree oil in any pet skincare product.

Why You Should Choose Squishface Products

At Squishface, we believe dog skincare should be simple, safe, and effective. That’s why we carefully formulate every product to exclude any ingredients that could harm your dog — whether applied topically or accidentally ingested.

Instead of harsh chemicals, artificial fragrances, or risky natural ingredients, Squishface uses only dog-safe ingredients designed to soothe, protect, and clean your pup’s skin.

Squishface Wrinkle Wipes – Clean from Head to Toe

If your dog has adorable face folds, stinky paws, or itchy skin, Squishface Wrinkle Wipes are the perfect solution. These wipes are gentle but powerful, and help clean between wrinkles, tear stains, around the tail pocket, and more.

Key ingredients include:

• Ketoconazole – Helps fight fungal infections and yeast buildup.

• Chlorhexidine – A powerful antiseptic that kills bacteria and prevents irritation.

• Phytosphingosine – A natural skin lipid that supports the skin’s barrier and reduces inflammation.

These wipes are perfect for daily use and leave your pup fresh and clean without any harmful residue.

Squishface Wrinkle Paste – Protect and Soothe

For dogs with skin folds such as English and French Bulldogs, moisture can easily get trapped, leading to irritation, infections, and odors. That’s where Squishface Wrinkle Paste comes in. It forms a thick, water-repellent barrier that protects your dog’s skin and keeps it dry.

This paste is packed with soothing, nourishing ingredients like:

• Shea Butter – Moisturizes and softens rough, irritated skin.

• Coconut Oil – Naturally antibacterial and antifungal.

• Avocado Oil – Rich in vitamins and antioxidants to support healthy skin.

Together, these ingredients help calm red, itchy areas and prevent future problems — all while being 100% safe for your dog if they happen to give themselves a lick.

The Bottom Line:

Your dog deserves skincare that works without putting their health at risk. By avoiding harmful ingredients like aloe, lanolin, and parabens — and choosing trusted, gentle products like Squishface Wrinkle Wipes and Wrinkle Paste — you can keep your pup clean, comfy, and happy from head to tail.

Shop Squishface today and see the difference safe, science-backed dog skincare can make!

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