From makeup and shampoos to lotions and soaps, our skin is exposed to a variety of products every single day. However, healthy skin shouldn’t be compromised for beauty. The following is a list of toxic beauty ingredients found in everyday products that should be avoided.
7 Toxic Beauty Ingredients To Avoid:
Parabens
Parabens are used as preservatives and are often found in deodorants, antiperspirants and makeup products to protect them against bacterial growth and to prolong the shelf life. Parabens can mimic estrogen, which can cause hormonal imbalance. They are often labeled as methylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate
Sulfates are used in car washes, detergents, surface cleaners and other household products. They are also found in the beauty products you use every day such as shampoos, conditioners and soaps. Valued for their ability to lather up, sulfates can actually cause irritation and inflammation — and can break down oils that are needed for healthy skin.
Diethanolamine, Monoethanolamine and Triethanolamine
Like sulfates, these provide a lather and foaming effect in shampoos, lotions and soaps. These are easily absorbed into the skin and can irritate the skin and eyes.
Phthalates
You’d be surprised to find out that this common beauty ingredient (often found in eye shadow and blush) is also used in plastics. These airborne toxins have been loosely linked to breast cancer and can cause metabolic and endocrine disruption.
Dioxins
You won’t see dioxins on an ingredient list, but it’s often found in antibacterial ingredients such as triclosan and emulsifiers. Dioxins disrupt hormones, can reduce immunity and cause nervous system disorders.
Petrolatum
This is also known as petroleum jelly. This mineral oil clogs pores and disrupts your body’s natural ability to moisturize its own skin. It can cause dryness, chapping and patchy skin.
Synthetic Fragrances
Fragrances can cause headaches, rashes and dizziness. Ingredient labels will simply list “fragrance,” so you won’t know what chemicals are actually used. In this case, it’s best to use all-natural mineral products that are free of fragrances altogether.
Toxic-Free Products to Consider:
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Liquid Mineral Foundation by Advanced Mineral MakeupAn all-natural, 100 percent vegan foundation that’s free of parabens, fillers and perfumes. Feeling weightless on the skin, this silky formula contains Vitamins A and E, looks flawless on the skin, and lasts all day without touch-ups. |
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Candlenut Hand and Body Balm by JUARA SkincareInfused with candlenut oil, a botanical revered in Indonesia for its supremely moisturizing properties and velvety touch, this balm deeply nourishes and relieves even the driest skins without parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, and sulfates. |
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Hydrating & Firming Body Lotion by LAFACE LaboratoriesThis paraben-free, hypoallergenic, all-natural lotion restores moisture, tightens and lifts the skin, and helps reverse sun damage and stretch marks. |