Did you know that on average woman uses 9 to 15 personal care products each day, containing a TOTAL of 126 UNIQUE chemicals?* Of course, not all of those chemicals are bad for you but you will be surprised by the number of nasty chemicals that manufacturers are still using. Those nasties are messing up with our thyroid, and are linked to cancer and reproductive issues.
I use to be like this and will shop all my favourite products trusting those well know and super famous brands. I am talking about Nivea body lotion, Colgate toothpaste, Rexona anti perspirant...
I no longer buy those products with harmful chemicals and find some organic and natural options that are better for me and the planet.
I know it can be tenuous and scary to start to check all the labels and ingredients to ensure that the product you use every day is SAFE. Don't trust all the labels as they are sometimes just marketing strategies to make you buy.
So here is a list of the 10 toxic chemicals to avoid AT ALL COSTS:
1 - Parabens are preservatives used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mould. It has been shown that they act as a hormone disruptors and cause breast cancer.
Look for --> Ethyl, Propyl, Benzyl, Butyl, Isobutyl, Methyl or something similar.
2- Phtalates are a group of chemicals used in plastics and fragrances, and they are often found in skincare products. They have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues and have been classified as a possible human carcinogen.
--> Look for Phthalate or fragrance or parfum. The best way to avoid it is to go for the mention phthalate-free.
3- Sulphates are a type of surfactant that is commonly used in cleansers and shampoos to create foam. They can strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation and dryness.
--> Look for sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) or ammonium lauryl sulphate (ALS) or surfactant or cleansing agent.
4- Formaldehyde is a preservative that is often found in nail polish and hair straightening products. It is a known carcinogen and can cause irritation and allergic reactions.
--> Look for formaldehyde, methanal
5- Triclosan is an antibacterial agent that is commonly found in hand sanitisers and soaps. It has been linked to hormone disruption and can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
--> Look for triclosan or benzalkonium chloride.
6- Mineral oil is a petroleum-derived ingredient that is often found in moisturisers and other skincare products. It can clog pores, cause breakouts, and it is also a possible human carcinogen. If you knew you were putting petrol on your skin, would you continue to use your favourite lotion?
--> Look for paraffin oil, petrolatum
7- Synthetic fragrances are often used in skincare products to create a pleasant scent. However, they can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation, and they may contain phthalates.
--> Look for fragrance, perfume
8- Polyethylene Glycol (PEGS) is a comment ingredient that helps to moisturize, thicken and emulsify. It can be derivated from natural or synthetic sources but can be contaminated with other substances that are potential carcinogens.
--> Look for glycol and PEG followed by numbers.
9- Hydroquinone is found in many skin-lightening and brightening creams, and may cause skin irritation, bumps, and even dermatitis for some users. Surprisingly, hydroquinone can also be found in anti-aging products, paint, and superglue, making it an ingredient to be cautious about.
--> Look for the chemical name, hydroquinone
10- Oxybenzone is a common ingredient in sunscreens that helps protect skin against UV rays by absorbing and emitting energy. However, it has been found to be an endocrine-disrupting compound that may interfere with hormones and has been banned in Hawaii due to its harmful effects on coral reefs.
--> Look for oxybenzone and benzophenone-3
While it might seem overwhelming to hear about harmful chemicals in skincare, don't worry - you have the power to make informed choices. By checking labels and choosing natural alternatives, you can take care of your skin while protecting your health. To make it easier, there are apps and websites like INCI BEAUTY that can help you decode those hard-to-pronounce ingredients. By taking a few extra minutes to check labels, you can make sure you're making the best choices for your skin and overall health.
So don't stress, and keep in mind that a little knowledge goes a long way when it comes to taking care of your skin!
N.M xx
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