Beware Of Harmful Chemicals In Your Skincare Products | Q & A 144
Common Harmful Chemicals
- Parabens: Used as preservatives, they have been linked to hormone disruption. 1. Parabens and their effects on the endocrine system – PubMed pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Phthalates: Often found in fragrances, they are endocrine disruptors. 1. Exposure to Phthalate, an Endocrine Disrupting Chemical, Alters the First Trimester Placental Methylome and Transcriptome in Women | Scientific Reports – Nature www.nature.com
- Sulfates (SLS and SLES): Strong detergents that can strip the skin of its natural oils. 1. Skin care: 5 tips for healthy skin – Mayo Clinic www.mayoclinic.org
- Fragrance: A catch-all term that can hide a variety of harmful chemicals. 1. Right to Know: Exposing Toxic Fragrance Chemicals Report – Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (BCPP) www.bcpp.org
- Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives: These can be irritating and have been linked to cancer. 1. Formaldehyde and Cancer Risk – NCI www.cancer.gov
- Triclosan: An antibacterial agent that has been linked to hormone disruption. 1. 5 Things to Know About Triclosan – FDA www.fda.gov
- Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: Commonly found in sunscreens, they can harm coral reefs and have been linked to hormone disruption. 1. Skincare Chemicals and Coral Reefs – NOAA’s National Ocean Service oceanservice.noaa.gov
- Mineral oil: Can clog pores and prevent skin from breathing.
- Synthetic dyes and colors: Can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. 1. The Danger of Synthetic Dyes in Skincare Products – Beauty by Earth www.beautybyearth.com
How to Identify Harmful Ingredients
- Read labels carefully: Look for the ingredients listed above.
- Research products: Many online resources provide information on product ingredients.
- Choose natural and organic options: These products are often free from harmful chemicals.
Remember: While these chemicals are commonly found in skincare products, not all products containing them are harmful. The concentration of the ingredient and individual skin sensitivity also play a role. It’s always best to do your research and choose products that suit your skin type and needs.