It’s not uncommon to assume that the products meant to be put on our bodies are safe for us. I was dumbfounded when I realized this wasn’t always the case. There are a lot of chemicals and toxins that are in our everyday products like cleaning supplies, makeup, food and even our skincare.
What’s worse is that a lot of products marketed as “clean” or “natural” are just flat-out lies. These words aren’t regulated meaning any company can claim their products are clean and natural without that being the case. Which can make it really hard to decipher what’s actually clean and what brands we can actually trust.
Though it may be “extra” work, one of the truest ways to know what you can trust is by familiarizing yourself with the ingredient lists.
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Here are skincare ingredients to avoid:
1. Oxybenzone
This ingredient is found in the majority of sunscreens. I’m very passionate about people using safe sunscreens and it’s mainly due to this ingredient. It’s been known to penetrate the skin and absorb into the bloodstream at levels that are way too high to be considered safe. It’s been known to be an endocrine disruptor and has severe negative impacts on fertility. If this ingredient is warned against use in pregnant women and children, it’s best to avoid it together no matter your age or stage of life.
2. Methylisothiazolinone
Often found in water based products like cleaners, this ingredient is a preservative that is a strong allergen. It’s been known to cause burning, itching and hives. You may not have sensitive skin, you may just be using harmful ingredients.
3. Acrylates
This ingredient can be slapped onto many other names, most commonly Ethyl Acrylate, Ethyl Methacrylate, and Methyl Methacrylate. While these different types of Acrylates can have different side effects, none of them are better than the other. Side effects can include headaches, dizziness, allergic rashes, and more.
4. Mineral oils
A by-product of petroleum, mineral oils are a very common ingredient in makeup and skincare. If used in high amounts, it’s been linked to causing cancer.
5. Phthalates
Phthalates have been known to cause reproductive tract abnormalities in males, infertility in males, preterm birth, endometriosis, obesity, respiratory problems and more. There’s just nothing good about these ingredients and you need to avoid them at all costs.
6. Triclosan
This ingredient is so good at penetrating the skin and entering our bloodstream that traces of it has actually been found in breast milk and urine samples. It’s been known to cause thyroid issues and increase the chances of children developing allergies and eczema.
7. Toluene
Toluene has a long list of potential side effects including confusion, dermatitis, dizziness, exhaustion, eye and nose irritation, headaches, muscle fatigue, numbness and weakness.
8. Formaldehyde
Known to cause a plethora of skin issues like rashes, itchiness, hives and peeling skin, Formaldehyde is a common skincare ingredient. It makes no sense. Avoid it!
9. Fragrances
While fragrances in skincare products may affect people with sensitive skin more, it’s still a good idea to avoid them. No matter your skin type. Side effects can include eczema, allergies, psoriasis, hives and headaches from the strong scent.
Related reading: Sustainable skincare brands
I don’t know why harmful ingredients are put in skincare and other common products. Maybe it’s all a conspiracy to sell us products to mess us up so they can sell us products to “fix” us. I’ll never know. But I do know that there are good, trustworthy brands out there.
Clean skincare brands you can trust:
A dermatologist tested and recommended skincare brand, Derma E is good for you and good for the planet. (something I care VERY much about here at alittlerosedust) Their products are ethically and sustainably made and proudly contain no parabens or sulphates or any of the other nasty ingredients on this list.
Not only are Earth Harbor products formulated to be safe for you, but they’re also made to be safe for our earth. They don’t contain any synthetic or harmful chemicals and sources each ingredient using fair trade, organic, non-GMO, or wildcrafted sources
Farmacy uses responsibly, farm-sourced ingredients in all its products. They’re safe and effective and something you can be confident putting on your skin.
Related reading: What is clean beauty?
I hope this helps you know what to look out for the next time you’re shopping for skincare! Keep yourself safe, friends.
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