Skin is the largest organ of the body. Hence, it protects our muscles, bones, and organs from the outside world. It is a body organ that we often show off. So, taking care of the skin is not a surprise. Also, many women have their skincare routine and products that they use. However, with all the products in the market, it’s hard to know what is good. Skincare products must bring benefits to the skin, but some do not. Some products have harmful ingredients that may be toxic to the skin and body.
1. Parabens
Parabens prevent products from getting bad bacteria. Hence, this ingredient keeps the product fresh. It is a common preservative in skincare products. It is less expensive. In 2004, a small study saw traces of parabens in breast cancer tissues. Therefore, studies link parabens to a high risk of cancer.
For healthy and perfect skin, go for paraben-free products. Also, look for these safer solvents as you buy a skincare product.
- Phenoxyethanol (Ph.D.). This preservative keeps the product from spoiling or becoming less effective fast. You can also see this solvent in vaccines and textiles.
- Sodium benzoate. This substance you may use in turn for parabens also have risks. To be safe, use enough amount.
2. Formaldehyde
This gas is colorless but flammable. Hence, lotions and deodorants may have this gas. Also, exposure to this preservative may cause skin irritation, trouble breathing, watery eyes, and burning in the nose when inhaled. Additionally, it is a human carcinogen. So, it may cause cancer.
3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
A body wash that turns into smooth lather has SLS. Its purpose is to make bubbles. It can trap dirt. However, it can irritate the skin and eyes. Also, it may cause pure skin to become red and irritated. It removes natural oils from the skin. Some theories link SLS to cancer.
4. Petroleum Jelly
We often hear of petroleum jelly in moisturizers for perfect skin. Hence, it is an FDA-approved skin protectant. But they cannot moisturize. What it does is creates a barrier. This barrier keeps moisture. Meanwhile, it also prevents the absorption of moisture outside. As a result, the skin suffocates and dries out.
5. Coal Tar
This ingredient makes lipstick color more vibrant. So, the more vibrant it is, the more Coal Tar is present in the lipstick. However, this substance is heavy. Therefore, it weighs down the skin. It may irritate the skin, which may lead to acne breakouts. Studies link coal tar with cancer.
6. Hydroquinone
This agent lightens the skin. But long-term use of this chemical destroys the skin. As a result, skin problems, blemishes, and pre-aging may occur.
To still lighten the skin, try these substitutes.
- Antioxidants. For pure skin, use anti-aging products with Vitamins A and C. They can brighten the skin. It may also improve skin tone.
- Plant-based acids. Not all acids are chemicals. There are plan-based acids that slow the skin’s melanin production.
- Vitamin B3. This compound prevents dark areas from going on the surface of the skin.
7. Triclosan
Triclosan is an ingredient in soaps and skincare products. But there are doubts behind this use. It links with skin and eye irritation. It may link to hormone disruption in the body. This chemical may bring a risk of contamination with other substances. Aside from the side effects of skin, it is toxic to marine life.
8. Oxybenzone
Skincare products may have this compound. It is useful in strengthening the color and scent of products. It protects the skin from UV. But it can cause skin allergies, irritation, and redness. It is also a hormone disruptor.
9. Phthalates
This ingredient keeps products less prone to breaking. It keeps them soft and pliable. The downside is it may disrupt hormones.
10. Fragrances
Fragrances smell good. But they are still chemicals. It sounds harmless, but they bring toxic effects on the body. It may irritate the skin and nose. Prefer natural scent over artificial ones.
11. “Drying” Alcohols
Alcohol is famous for its ability to kill germs. It is also present in some beauty products. But alcohols that leave the skin dry may eat away the skin surface.
