Our skin is the largest organ, and it works really hard to protect us against germs and regulate body temperature. Our skin also sustains unintentional harm like abrasions, bruises and cuts on a daily basis. So it deserves all the love and attention!
One of the best things we could do to take care of our skin is choosing good personal care and skincare products that helps nourish and protect your skin, so it always helps to take a peak at the label of personal care products. If you are interested in finding out what ingredients are harmful to your skin and what to avoid, read on!
Mineral Oil
Mineral oil is a byproduct of petroleum and is usually incorporated in cosmetics, lotions, ointments, and creams to keep moisture from escaping by creating a "barrier" on your skin. This can in turn clog your pores and increase the likelihood or acne.
Parabens
Parabens were first introduced in the market as a preservative to give personal care and skincare products a longer shelf life. However, it's believed to disrupt hormone function when it enters the body through the skin, so it is best to avoid.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium lauryl sulfate, or SLS, is one of the more harmful ingredients that exist in hair and personal care products. SLS leaves a residue on the skin that could cause dehydration and irritability, especially to those with sensitive skin.
Artificial Colours
Dyes and artificial colours are often used in products to make it look more appealing but is most of the time, unnecessary. The downside to this is that artificial colourants can cause inflammation, irritation and unwanted redness to your skin.
Alcohol
When alcohols, especially ethanol, isopropanol, and methanol, are heavily present in your personal care products, it becomes a big problem. While your skin can look great when you first apply an alcohol-based product, alcohol will cause your skin to become dry, can damage the protective barrier of your skin, and can create problems with how your skin renews and replenishes itself in the long term.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a pungent gas used as a preservative in skincare, soaps, and sometimes even baby products. Formaldehyde has been routinely linked to cancer, birth defects, and even asthma.
Silicone
When exposed to silicone long-term, pores on skin get clogged. Silicone traps bacteria, impurities, dirt, and sebum in your skin, causes pores to enlarge, and can also encourage blackheads and acne to form.
Cocamide DEA
In small doses, DEA can cause itchiness and rash on the skin. Large doses, however, are potentially carcinogenic (cause cancer) to humans—especially as it builds up in the system over time.
Propylene Glycol
Another byproduct of petroleum, propylene glycol, like mineral oils, forms a seal on the skin to prevent moisture from escaping. However, as time goes by, your skin will appear parched and dry, exaggerating the look of wrinkles and fine lines.
