Ingredients In Beauty Products That Are Helping And Hurting

Each of us have a specific beauty routine whether it’s putting on moisturizer first, then your foundation, then your eyeliner, so on and so forth. But did you know that there’s a good chance that those chemicals in your product could be hurting your skin? Don’t worry, though, we’re here to give you an easy-to-follow overview of what ingredients may be hurting your skin and specific ingredients that will actually help it! Find out below.

Photo courtesy of Inner Scientist

Beauty Ingredients To Avoid:

1. Triclosan: This bad boy can be found in your personal product such as toothpaste and deodorant, as well as your beauty products. It’s in there because it’s being used as a bactericide, but a recent study suggests it’s been linked to heart disease and heart failure. It also creates resistant bacteria and can interfere with muscle function and even alter hormone regulation. Whoa!
2. 1, 4 Dioxane: This is a carcinogen that also goes by the name SLES meaning it contains 1, 4 dioxane.
3. Diethanolamine and Triethanolamine: They also go by DEA and TEA and are possible carcinogens and skin irritants.
4. Oxybenzone: Heard this one before? Probably because it’s in most spray-on sunscreens. It’s a hormone disruptor so make sure to check for this before you grab sunscreen and head to the beach this summer.
5. Parabens: This is a widely used preservative that prevents the growth of bacteria, yeast and mold in beauty products. Unfortunately, it also possesses fake estrogen properties that can increase your risk of breast cancer. They’re absorbed through the skin and what’s even scarier is that they have been in biopsy samples from breast tumors.
6. Fragrance/Parfum: This is code for “an array of different chemicals that could even be carcinogens.” We know it may smell and sound good, but it’s not and could cause respiratory issues, allergies and even affects on the reproductive system. Yikes!
7. Formaldehyde: This preservative is used in a ton of personal care and beauty products in order to prevent bacteria. But did you know it’s also been linked to cancers? It also can be harmful to our immune system and is a human carcinogen. Need I say more?
8. Sodium Laureth Sulfate: This is used in foaming products like shampoo, cleansers and body wash. It can be contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (see number 2) and could cause cancer. It’s also known as sodium lauryl sulfate and any ingredients with the letters “eth” on ingredient labels.

We know you’re probably now wondering, “So what ingredients are actually good for my skin?” Don’t worry, we have some good news below.

Beauty Ingredients to consider:

1. Aloe Vera: This natural plant is rich in antioxidants and vitamin A, C, E and B12. It also is great for soothing and calming redness in skin.
2. Grape Seed Oil: A natural oil that is rich in Vitamin, Omega 6 oils and antioxidants. Use it in your cooking and make sure it’s in your beauty products.
3. Vitamin E: This is a no-brainer considering we included it in the two ingredients above. It protects the outer layers of the skin and has a ton of antioxidants. Rub some of the oil form under your eyes for a natural eye cream.
4. Jojoba Seed Oil: You may have already known about this as it can be used on hair and skin, but it’s also rich in Vitamin E and helps to rebalance your oil production.
5. Zinc Oxide: You’ve probably seen this listed in numerous sunscreens as it reflects light and also works as an anti-inflammatory that reduces puffiness and even firms skin!
6. Soy: This ingredient helps your skin look brighter and more even. It’s all natural and has been shown to lighten discoloration.
7. Coco-Flucoside: This is an ionic surfactant that’s mild and skin-friendly. It’s naturally derived from coconut oil and fruit sugar.
8. Arrowroot: This ingredient soothes skin and is considered a natural substitute for talc. It also helps penetrate the skin when used in moisturizers.