We all want to look and feel our best, but sometimes the products we use to achieve that goal can do more harm than good. Let’s take a closer look at some common ingredients found in skincare products that you might want to think twice about.
Parabens: The Hormone Disruptors
Parabens are preservatives widely used in cosmetics and personal care products. While they keep your products fresh, they may come with a hefty price tag for your health. These items have been know to be hormone disruptors. We try so hard everyday to keep our hormones in balance, why would we mess that up with something we put on our skin?
Why be cautious?
- Parabens can mimic estrogen in your body, causing hormonal imbalances.
- Found in breast tissue samples, they’ve raised concerns about their link to breast cancer.
Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs): The Double-Edged Sword
Used in skincare products as thickeners, PEG’s are used to help other ingredients penetrate your skin better. However, this enhanced absorption can be a double-edged sword.
The downside:
- Known carcinogens like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, are harmful impurities found in PEG’s.
- They can increase the absorption of other potentially harmful ingredients in your products.
Phthalates: The Sneaky Plasticizers
Phthalates are often used to make fragrances last longer and to make plastic more flexible. But these seemingly harmless ingredients may pose serious health risks.
Health concerns:
- Phthalates have been linked to breast cancer and congenital disorders.
- They may affect mental and behavioral development in children.
- Some phthalates are classified as Priority and Toxic Pollutants due to their harmful effects on wildlife and the environment.
Perfumes: The Mystery Ingredients
Artificial fragrances can contain hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. While they make products smell nice, they cause various health issues.
Potential problems:
- Skin irritation and allergic reactions
- Hormone disruption
- Aggravation of respiratory conditions
Paraffins: The Pore Blockers
Derived from petroleum, paraffins are often used in skincare products to create a barrier on the skin. However, this barrier effect isn’t always beneficial.
Why avoid them:
- Paraffins can seal off your pores, preventing your skin from breathing properly.
- This can lead to skin irritations and allergic reactions.
- They give the illusion of moisturized skin without actually hydrating it.
What Can You Do?
- Read labels carefully: Look out for these ingredients in your skincare products.
- Choose natural alternatives: Opt for products with natural preservatives and fragrances.
- Go fragrance-free: When possible, choose unscented products to avoid hidden chemicals.
- Support clean beauty: Brands should be looked for that are committed to using safe, non-toxic ingredients.
Remember, your skin is your largest organ, and what you put on it matters. By being mindful of these potentially harmful ingredients, you can make safer choices for your skin and overall health.
Jen really loves products from the Little Homestead Company. They’re committed to helping us all find true health and healing. She loves their natural deodorants and won’t ever go back to the store bought brands full of toxic chemicals. You can find more information at their website. TheLittleHomesteadCo.com
For more support for women’s hormonal health, join us in our Hormone Reset Bootcamp today!
