The skin is the largest organ of your body and acts as a crucial barrier between you and the outside world. However, many people are unaware of the amount of chemicals they expose their skin to on a daily basis through cosmetics and personal care products. In this article, we will explore statistics and common ingredients in addition to the importance of choosing natural and safe skin care products.
It is estimated that the average number of cosmetic products used by women is around 12 products a day, exposing them to over 100 different chemical ingredients. From shampoo, conditioner, hair treatment, soap, moisturizer, deodorant, facial creams, make-up, etc. It's a whole ritual that unfortunately is often flooded with agents that can create allergies, irritations and even affect hormonal issues.
The skin can absorb up to 60% of the chemicals applied to it.
Today the availability of products on the market is out of control. There is something for all tastes, budgets and needs. Here I don't want to get into the discussion that you should stop using them, since that is a very personal decision and besides, I am not a dermatologist. What I intend with all this is that, from now on, before buying any type of product, you should take the time to read the list of ingredients that often comes on a sticker on the back of the packaging and in very small print. There are also several applications and virtual sites that you can use, such as: ThinkDirty, EWG's Healthy Living, Ingreed (para Apple) , Ingreed (para Android).
Know some toxic ingredients that your personal care and cosmetic products may contain:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) / Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Formaldehyde
Hydroquinone
Petroleum / Paraffin
Mercury
Parabens
Phthalates
Triclosan
Benzalkonium
Synthetic Fragrance
Propylene Glycol / Polyethylene Glycol
Coal tar
Diethanolamine (DEA) / Cocamide / Triethanolamine
Phenoxyethanol
Polyethylene glycol (PEG)
It is important to keep in mind that the safety of these ingredients may depend on their concentration, the individual sensitivity of each person and their frequent and prolonged use.
The Solution: Natural and Safe Products
The key to healthy, chemical-free skin is to opt for natural products such as:
Natural Oils: Oils such as coconut oil, jojoba oil and almond oil are excellent choices for naturally moisturizing the skin.
Aloe Vera: This plant has healing properties and is excellent for soothing skin irritation.
Shea Butter: Shea butter is rich in vitamins and is an excellent natural moisturizer.
Certified Organic Products: Look for certified organic products that guarantee the ingredients are of natural origin and contain no harmful chemicals.
Opting for safe, natural products is the best way to ensure healthy skin in the long run. Remember, if you wouldn't eat those ingredients, limit their use or don't apply them to your skin!
Source:
Environmental Working Group (EWG). (2021). How Many Personal Care Products Do You Use in a Day?
Skin Deep - EWG. (n.d.). Do You Know What’s in Your Cosmetics?
Darbre, P. D., Aljarrah, A., Miller, W. R., Coldham, N. G., Sauer, M. J., and Pope, G. S. (2004). Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumours. Journal of Applied Toxicology, 24(1), 5-13.
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. (2021). Phthalates.
American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Sensitive Skin.
Steinemann, A. (2019). Fragranced consumer products: Exposures and effects from emissions. Air Quality, Atmosphere & Health, 12(8), 881-886.
University of California - Berkeley. (2004). UCSF Study Finds Women’s Antiwrinkle Creams May Thin the Skin.
U.S. Food & Drug Administration. (n.d.). Ingredients of Cosmetics - FDA Regulatory Overview.
Disclaimer:
"The information provided is for educational and informational purposes only, and is made available as self-help tools for your own use; it is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult with a health care professional."
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