Toxic Chemicals Commonly Found in Skin Care

There’s a lot of confusion out there about which ingredients are safe to use on your skin and which aren’t. The problem is that many people assume that all skin care products are safe for you. But it’s not as simple as that. In truth, if your skin care products are not natural, then it’s likely to pose a health risk, including cancer.

Fortunately, there are plenty of options for you at face naturals! Let’s take a look at the most common toxic chemicals found in skincare and why they shouldn’t put you off using them all together…

 

Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA)

BHA is one of the main ingredients used in exfoliating skincare products like face scrubs, chemical peels and retinol creams. It’s also a common sunscreen ingredient. BHA works by breaking down the “glue” that holds dead skin cells together, which allows them to slough off more quickly and easily. This leaves the skin surface looking brighter and smoother.

BHA is also antimicrobial, so it can help reduce acne and prevent breakouts. BHA has been found to be one of the least toxic, “bad” chemicals that can be found in skincare products. It has been given a low hazard rating by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and is not known to cause any toxic reactions when applied to the skin.

 

Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)

DBP is a chemical commonly found in nail polish and fragrance. It is also used to make plastic and vinyl more flexible. DBP can be found in some hair sprays, deodorants, and skin moisturizers. It is also sometimes added to nail polish to enhance its adhesion and prevent chipping. DBP can be a hormone disruptor, as it has been found to be an endocrine disruptor in rats.

This means that it can interfere with the body’s hormone system. DBP is listed as a toxic chemical on EWG’s Skin Deep website and is rated as a high hazard. This is because of its potential to cause birth defects and organ damage in humans and animals. However, it’s important to note that the low concentrations of DBP found in most skincare products are not deemed harmful to humans.

 

Diethanolamine (DEA)

DEA is a chemical found in hair care products like shampoos, conditioners and styling products. DEA is also used in other products such as fragrance, nail polish and sunscreen. DEA has been linked to a range of skin problems like allergies and contact dermatitis.

It has also been found to be an eye irritant, particularly when it comes into contact with the eyelids. DEA may also be linked to certain cancers, although there is not enough evidence to confirm this.

While DEA is not necessarily a toxic chemical that you should avoid altogether, it’s worth keeping an eye on your exposure to it. You can do this by reading the labels on your shampoo and other products to see if DEA is listed.

 

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a chemical that is naturally produced by our bodies and found in some foods and drinks. It is also naturally occurring in our environment, produced by plants and animals. Formaldehyde is commonly used in hair straighteners, nail hardeners and in eyelash adhesives.

Formaldehyde is also found in some nail polishes, nail strengtheners and hair dyes. Formaldehyde is a known irritant when applied to the skin and can cause redness, itching, irritation and burning. It can also be linked with allergies in some people. Formaldehyde is a toxic chemical that is linked with a range of health problems. It can irritate the eyes, nose and throat and lead to long-term health problems. It can also be carcinogenic.

 

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a chemical used in skin-lightening products. It is commonly found in creams designed to treat hyperpigmentation and melasma.

Hydroquinone can also be found in sunscreens, acne medications and facial exfoliants. Hydroquinone works by inhibiting the production of melanin, the pigment that causes hyperpigmentation in skin. It is also used to treat the appearance of vein protrusion on the legs and other areas of the body.

Hydroquinone is a controversial chemical that has been linked to a range of health risks. It has been banned in some countries and its use is heavily restricted in others. It is not recommended that you use products containing hydroquinone without medical supervision.

 

Parabens

Parabens are a commonly found in skincare products. They are used as preservatives in creams, lotions and other skincare products.

Parabens are also found in shampoos, conditioners, and other hair care products. They are used to prevent bacteria and fungi from growing in products and keeping them fresh. Parabens are usually listed as methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben or butylparaben on product labels. Parabens are toxic chemicals, but they are also very controversial. They are banned in the European Union and restricted in Australia. However, in the United States, they are considered safe to use in very small amounts. 

 

Toluene

Toluene is a solvent that is used to dissolve other ingredients and keep them mixed together in skincare products. It is also used in nail products like polish and adhesives.

Toluene is commonly found in hair and beauty products like hair dye, nail polish, nail strengtheners and nail removers. It is also found in fragrance and colognes.

Toluene is a toxic chemical and is linked to a range of health problems in both the short and long term. It can damage the nervous system in humans and animals. It can also cause brain damage and affect fertility in men.

 

Triclosan

Triclosan is a chemical found in skincare products like toothpaste, hand soap and deodorants. It is also used in water treatment and some household cleaners.

Triclosan is a synthetic chemical that can accumulate in the human body. It can also affect the bodies of animals and insects. Triclosan has been linked to a range of health problems, including bacterial resistance, endocrine disruption and allergies. There are also concerns that it may be carcinogenic.

Triclosan is not a toxic chemical, but it can be harmful in the amounts found in everyday skincare products.

 

Ultraviolet light protection: What you need to know

Using sunscreen is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. Did you know that some sunscreens use ingredients that are really toxic? Well, they do. But don’t worry, there are plenty of safe, effective options out there.

Sunscreen is a broad term that refers to any product used to block UV rays and prevent sunburn. It is usually applied as a lotion, cream, or spray and can also be found in clothing and even hygiene products.

The most important thing to remember when buying any sunscreen is to check the ingredients. You want to make sure that it doesn’t contain any of the toxic chemicals listed above.

The easiest way to know what you are putting onto your skin is healthy, or not is to send us an email and we will be happy to give you a personalized, healthy recommendation for your skincare needs.

 

Be careful when choosing skincare

As you can see, many of these chemicals might sound scary. There is better, more healthy option with face naturals. If you have sensitive skin, it’s worth checking the ingredients list on any skincare products you use to make sure you avoid any of these chemicals.

This will reduce any irritation or burning that these chemicals might cause. And it will also help to minimize your exposure to them. Keep in mind – whatever you put onto your skin will find it way into your bloodstream. Play it safe with organic, healing botanicals for your precious skin.

 

Information Disclaimer: The following statements are for educational purposes only and have not been evaluated by the FDA. We encourage you to speak with your preferred medical advisor to determine if this information is right for you. This article is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.