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Which ingredients should you avoid in your cosmetic products and why?

Kristyna

Updated: Jan 9


Toxins are all around us, but we can minimize their impact on our health. The effects of these toxins may not be immediate, but over time they can lead to skin problems and other health issues. Think about how many products you use every day, from toothpaste to perfume, that can expose you to these toxins. It's not just one product, it's the cumulative effect of using

multiple products that can allow toxins to accumulate in our bodies.


Even experts like chemists, doctors, and scientists don't fully understand the long-term effects of daily exposure to chemicals in these products, especially when they are combined. Not all substances in these products are tested, and some that have been proven harmful are still allowed. Our bodies can absorb up to 60% of what we put on our skin or wash with.


While there are many ingredients to avoid, this article will focus on the most important ones. By learning about these ingredients, you will understand why you should avoid them and how to identify them in the long list of product ingredients.


1. Parabens

These preservatives may not harm your skin immediately, but they can cause allergic reactions, eye, and skin irritation in the long run. They can also disrupt our hormones, reduce fertility, and even affect children's development. Some types of parabens have been linked to breast cancer. (parabens in deodorants)

e. g. Propylparaben, Methylparaben, Ethylparaben


2. Phthalates

Often used as plasticizers for PVC, phthalates can also be found in fragrances, hair sprays, and nail polishes. Similar to parabens, they are endocrine disruptors that can lead to hormonal and reproductive issues.

e. g. Di (2-etylhexyl) phtalate (DEHP) and DIBP


3. Fragrance

Synthetic fragrances are like a chemical cocktail, with thousands of possible ingredients. They can irritate the skin, cause headaches, and even impact mood and behavior. Long-term use may disrupt hormones and fertility. Some reproductive clinics even prohibit wearing perfumed products due to their potential harm to embryos. Look for fragrances derived from natural ingredients, such as essential oils or fruits. For those with sensitive skin or skin problems, including children, fragrance-free products are recommended.

e. g. Parfum, Fragnance, Aroma


4. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate/Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS/SLES)

are commonly found in foaming cosmetics like liquid soaps and shampoos. While they create a beautiful lather, they can strip the skin of its protective barrier, leaving it excessively dry.


5. PEG and PPG

are used as humectants and fragrance carriers in oils. While they help substances penetrate the skin, they also carry potentially harmful ingredients with them. Despite being derived from petroleum and using toxic gases in their production, the negative effects on human health have not been scientifically proven.

Usually used in personal hygiene and skin care products, wet wipes…Be aware of them!

e. g. PEG-100 Stearate, Steareth-21, Ceteareth 3, Polysorbate 40, Laureth


6.Formaldehyde

Commonly used as a preservative in nail polishes, has been linked to carcinogenic effects, irritation of the mucous membranes, and allergic reactions. Consider your options before choosing a nail polish with formaldehyde. There are some of brands available that are formaldehyde-free.

e. g. 2-Bromo, 2- Nitropropan-1,3 Diol, Bronidox, Diazodinil – Urea, 5-Bromo-5Nitro-1, glutaral, 3-Dioxane , DMDM hydantion


7. Oil derivates, and mineral oils - Although the name sounds quite nice and promising, it is actually the remains of petroleum distillation. They do not bring any nutritional value to the skin. They are just cheap fillers you’ll most likely find in conventional face and body creams.

e. g. Paraffinum Liquidum, Paraffine, Mineral Oil.Vaseline, Propyl Glycol

8. Aluminum salts

Active ingredients in antiperspirants that control sweat and body odor. However, in the long run, they can create a buildup of aluminum deposits in our bodies. Thankfully, natural cosmetics offer alternatives like baking soda in deodorants, avoiding the harmful effects of aluminum.

e. g. Aluminium chloride, Aluminium chlorohydrate, Aluminum Citrate


9. Chemical filters

The most commonly used chemical filters for tanning products. Unfortunately, according to recent studies, these filters promote the formation of free radicals that can damage DNA, cause hormonal imbalances and cause cancer.

e. g. Oxybenzone, Avobenzone, Oxyphenone, Benzophenone, Methoxicinnamat


10. Phenoxyethanol

is a commonly used preservative that can potentially cause allergies, skin irritation, and even cancer. It is often used as a replacement for parabens. The EU allows a maximum concentration of 1% in cosmetic products. Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and children should avoid products containing phenoxyethanol.


11. Talc

Used in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries, can be a source of concern. It is often found in mineral cosmetics and baby powders. Talc can be contaminated with asbestos, which when inhaled, can cause lung cancer. It has also been linked to ovarian and testicular cancer.


If you want to dive deeper into this topic, check out the eye-opening documentary "Not so pretty" . It's a four-part series exploring the truth about talc and other concerning ingredients.



Learn more 👇



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