The skincare industry in booming and people are becoming more aware of what they are putting into their bodies, along with what they're putting on it. Its normal to feel a tad lost when you read your product label. You don't know what you're supposed to be avoiding, but you know the chemicals listed in gibberish can't be good for you. So, what exactly are the chemicals you should be on the look out for?
Triclosan
Triclosan is a synthetic antibacterial agent. It's found in detergents, soaps, body wash, dental care, first aid, kitchenware, clothing, toys, furniture, deodorant, and more. The EPA labels it as a pesticide. Health risks linked to this ingredient include abnormalities with the endocrine system, particularly with the thyroid and problems regulating hormones, birth defects, cancer and tumors from uncontrolled cell growth and disruption of muscle cells.
Parabens
Methyl, ethyl, propyl and butyl are the most commonly used. They're used as a preservative in skincare, toothpaste and deodorants, among others. Closely linked to breast cancer. They are a hormone disruptor that can have effects on the sterility of males and premature puberty.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Commonly used in acne products, this ingredient damages DNA cells in mammals. It is linked to tumors and is toxic when inhaled. It's actually an irritant to eyes, lungs and coincidentally, skin.
Phthalates
Used to make plastic flexible, durable and transparent. This ingredient is used in vinyl flooring, pharmaceuticals, sterile plastic hospital equipment like blood bags and IV tubing, nail polish, hair spray, lipstick and disgustingly- the products you put on your skin. It is found to cause kidney damage, breast growth in girls and boys, birth defects and decrease sperm counts in men. They are hormone disruptors effecting the endocrine system and mainly the hormones estrogen and androgen.
Sodium Laurel (SLS) and Sodium Laureth (SLES) Sulfates
Emulsifying agent to help ingredients stay blended for prolonged shelf-life. Used in industrial strength degreaser for engines and garage floors, laundry detergent, car wash soaps and the vast majority of all skin care products that foam such as, body washes, facial cleansers, shower and bath gels, toothpaste and shampoo. Causes death, depression, eye damage, skin irritation, organ system toxicity and causes adverse gastrointestinal reactions.
Propylene Glycol and Butylene Glycol
A common preservative, it is petroleum plastic made from fermented yeast and carbohydrates. Included in foods, cosmetics, lotions and sunscreens, industrial cleaning products and pharmaceuticals. These ingredients after repeated exposure can cause skin allergies and brain, liver and kidney abnormalities by weakening DNA structures. The EPA considers Propylene Glycol so toxic it requires gloves, goggles, clothing and disposal by burying.
Our bodies absorb around 60% of the substances we come in contact with. Parts of our bodies are more porous, thus easily drawing in toxins. Avoiding chemicals like these and researching your skin care products could save you and your family in the long run.