Sunday, May 2, 2010

Not all Skin Care Products are Created Equal

This post will focus on another element of health that so many of us are misinformed, or lack knowledge on. It's about skin care products, and the ingredients in them. Our foods are regulated to a certain extent through some labeling, like USDA organic, at least that will let you know your food is growth hormone and toxin free. But what about our skin care products. Is it possible you are eating healthy things for your body, yet slathering toxins into your skin daily? Remember that your skin IS your largest organ. Anything you put on it can be easily absorbed through your pores. There are more and more health care products on the market that are good for you, and don't contain any harmful chemicals. Here is a list of things you should avoid in your cosmetics, skin care products and beauty supplies:

Parabens: Methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl parabens. Many skin care products, including moisturizers, will use parabens as a preservative so the product will have a longer shelf life. It's a matter of economics. Some studies have suggested that they may cause cancer and interfere with the body's endocrine system. They may also cause allergic reactions and skin rashes.

Alcohols:
Ethanol, ethyl alcohol, methanol, benzyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol and SD alcohol. Not all alcohols have the same properties, but these which are commonly found in skin care products, are very drying and irritating for the skin. These alcohols can strip away the skin's natural acid mantle, making you more susceptible to molds, viruses and bacterias.

Dioxane:
This is a synthetic derivative of coconut. This is widely used in skincare products. It often contains high concentrations of 1,4-dioxane, which is readily absorbed through the skin. 1,4-dioxane is considered a chemical "known to the State of California to cause cancer". Do you really want to put that on your body? Crazy that companies can use these and sell them to people!

Fragrances: I am not against smelling good, so for sure don't go get rid of your favorite perfume. It's just that your skincare products shouldn't contain fragrances. Remember how I told you your skin is your largest organ? Well, when you use skin care products, you apply them all over your face, neck and body. This covers a lot of surface area, and therefore, a lot can be absorbed through your skin. Typically, perfumes are just dotted in a couple of key areas. Just be careful with your fragrances, since many of the ingredients in them are known to be toxic or carcinogenic.

Remember, there are some great choices out there for cosmetics. Do your homework and choose wisely, because what you put on your body is just as important as what you put in it!

No comments:

Post a Comment