Beauty

The Beauty Ingredient Blacklist: 10 Ingredients to Avoid at All Costs

The Beauty Ingredient Blacklist: 10 Ingredients to Avoid at All Costs

Many people don’t check the ingredients of the cosmetics they buy, what they do is follow what their peers are using, or follow ads in media. Many are privy to the details of the products, and overlook the various warnings that are provided by health institutions and many online posts.

What you don’t realize is that whenever you apply that moisturizer, skin lightening cream or any other select cosmetic product, the skin absorbs toxic chemicals that are detrimental to your health.

This post lets you into the secrets that many manufacturers don’t tell you on the information label. This is why you need to read the necessary documentation with the aim of knowing what you are applying on the skin.

  1.    Parabens
    These are preservatives used widely for prevention of bacteria growth, yeast, and mold in cosmetic products. They have been known to cause breast cancer and other allergic reactions such as rashes. These come in various forms such as butyl, ethyl, propyl and more. They are an active ingredient in shampoos, deodorants, perfumes and other products.
  2.    Phthalates
    These are a group of components that are used in products to increase the pliability and elasticity of plastics. Some are in nail polish (di-butyl phthalate), perfumes and lotions (diethyl phthalate) and more. The health effects include liver damage, birth defects and a decrease in sperm count.
  3.    Talc
    Yes, talc, the main ingredient in talcum powder can cause disturbing effects when used for a long time. Some talc contains asbestos, a substance that is known to cause cancer when inhaled. Talcum powder is common and has been used for ages. However, when it causes the unexpected, you need to hold pharmaceutical companies responsible.
  4.    Diethanolamine and Triethanolamine
    Abbreviated DEA and TEA respectively, these are foam boosters, also called emulsifiers. They are popular ingredients in soaps, creams, lotions and other products. Regular and prolonged uses lead to irritation of the skin and can cause contact dermatitis.
  5.    Mineral oil
    This is used in various forms, both solid and liquid. It is usually used as an emollient, meaning it reduces the evaporation from the skin surface, therefore having a moisturizing effect. However, it can cause dryness and chapping as well.
  6.    Sodium Lauryl Sulphate
    It is mainly used as a foaming agent, making an active component of shampoos and cleansers. It is harsh and strips natural oils from your hair or skin. It also causes allergic reactions such as dry scalp, skin rashes, and irritation of the eyes. The main reason it is used over and over again is that it is cheap.
  7.    Synthetic Colors and Fragrances
    These often appear at the end of the description list. They are normally listed as D&C or FD&C and then followed by a certain number. The color is to make the formulation look better, but does not affect how the formulation works. These colors have been known to have carcinogenic effects when used for a long period.
  8.    Formaldehyde
    This is a common chemical that is used as a preservative in some chemicals. The vapors from this component are irritating and can trigger allergic reactions. They can cause skin reactions after exposure due to the irritation they produce. It can also combine with other components to cause other bad effects.
  9.    Octyl Stearate
    This product is widely used in sunscreens, tanning oils, moisturizers and eye creams. It clogs pores and is also an irritant. Although proper moisturizing is ideal for the skin, make sure you avoid this ingredient.
  10.    Triclosan
    Triclosan is used in deodorants, facial tissues, perfumes, and antiperspirants. It is included in these formulations because of its antimicrobial properties. However, it irritates the skin and disrupts the endocrine process.

In Closing
When buying beauty products, make sure that you read the ingredient list keenly so that you understand what you are getting into.