Interested in switching to safer products? In this post, we’ll introduce you to the ingredients you should avoid using in your beauty products and why they’re important for your overall health. If you would like to try Oliveda, Check out my link here and our Click here for the free skin care quiz. If you purchase two items from the quiz results, you will receive a gift.
I wanted to update this old post, especially since Beautycounter is gone. – and I’ll share some ingredients I’ve learned to avoid in personal care and beauty products. I’m always learning about new brands and trying new products, and I’m so grateful to now have safer options. When I was pregnant with Liv, my options were pretty limited. I’m excited to see how much the clean beauty movement has grown.
To be honest, my journey to switch to safer personal care, beauty, and skin care products began long after my health journey began. I’ve dedicated much of my life to fitness and eating right, but it wasn’t until I got pregnant with Liv that I learned that what you put into your body is just as important as what you put into it.
lack of regulation
Unlike the food industry, the beauty industry unfortunately has very little regulation. The last significant law regulating this multi-billion dollar industry was passed in 1938. That was over 80 years ago. Since then, thousands of chemicals have been introduced, allowing companies to sneak toxic and potentially harmful ingredients into their products. Asbestos in cosmetics!?scared!
My journey to switching to safer products for myself and my family was slow and steady. I am so grateful that we partnered with Beautycounter a few years ago. Because Beautycounter has been a source of education and resources (not to mention the community aspect and how my business thrives). Beautycounter has been discontinued and replaced with these products (and their revenue streams): oliveda. I loved Beauty Counter, but this one I oliveda products moreover! It has made a huge difference in the texture and lines of my skin. Also, since the brand is based in Europe, it follows EU standards that require safer ingredients than those allowed in the United States.
When it comes to regulating personal care products, the European Union is leading the way, banning around 1,400 ingredients. Canada has about 600 restrictions, while the US only has 30. Currently, the FDA does not have the authority to regulate the ingredients in our products, so it really comes down to our personal judgment.
Once you know better, you can do better. By purchasing products with safer ingredients, we are voting with our money.
Ingredients to avoid in beauty products
1. Parabens
Parabens are used in products that contain a lot of water, such as shampoos, conditioners, cleansers, and moisturizers. Additionally, parabens cause endocrine disruption, which means they can affect the delicate balance of hormones. These can mimic estrogen in the body and change gene expression. Read more about Let’s talk about parabens and why they shouldn’t be included in cosmetics.
2. Phthalates
In addition to being linked to cancer, phthalates contribute to a variety of health problems, including behavioral problems, asthma, breast cancer, ADHD, neurological problems, birth defects, and fertility issues. It has also been shown that Like many harmful ingredients in cosmetics and skin care. The effects can be cumulative.
3. Fragrance
This is an industry trade secret, and the term “fragrance” can be used to hide over 200 chemical ingredients. Companies can easily hide known neurotoxins, carcinogens, allergens, and hormone disruptors by simply calling them “scents.”
4. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a preservative and a known carcinogen. It is often used as an ingredient in various cosmetic products, such as nail polish and eyelash adhesive. As with many things, influences and reactions vary; It can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory problems.
Unfortunately, while formaldehyde is a well-known toxic ingredient, many people don’t know that some lesser-known cosmetic ingredients can release formaldehyde. This means that “formaldehyde” may not be listed among the ingredients in your cosmetics. listed under a different name.
Bronopol, DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, diazolidinyl urea, and imidazolidinyl urea are “formaldehyde-releasing agents” found in some cosmetics. Similarly, methylene glycol, an ingredient in some hair straightening products, is produced by the reaction of formaldehyde and water. It is best to avoid these preservatives whenever possible.
5. Oxybenzone
Oxybenzone is more than just an ingredient can be harmful to usbut harmful to the earth and our precious ecosystem. Oxybenzone, commonly used in sunscreens, causes coral bleaching and damages the DNA of coral reefs. It was my first time in Hawaii. Avoid using this type of sunscreen.
6. Heavy metals
Cosmetics often contain heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and zinc. These are used in everything from lipstick to eyeliner to give them a metallic sheen.
Risks associated with heavy metals include cancer, endocrine disorders, developmental delays, and neurological disorders.
7. Talc
Talc is commonly found in dusting powders and powder-based makeup such as eyeshadow and blush, and may be acceptable if present. asbestos! Safer alternatives include starches derived from corn, corn, arrowroot, tapioca, oats, or baking soda.
8. Paraffin and Vaseline
These are long-term byproducts of oil refining used to make gasoline and other petroleum products…and yes, they can be hiding in your everyday body lotion. Other names include petrolatum, paraffin oil, and mineral oil. They are often mixed into lotions because of their moisturizing properties. The main health risks of paraffin and petrolatum come from improper purification processes, which can also leave behind carcinogenic contaminants.
9. Resorcinol
This is an ingredient often found in hair colorants. It can cause dermatitis, especially for people with sensitive skin. It is also thought to be associated with immune system dysfunction and thyroid dysfunction.
Switching to safer products
Learning about the most dangerous substances and ingredients to avoid has made it easier to choose anything from shampoo and body lotion to toothpaste, deodorant, and even makeup. In case of doubt, I Environmental Working Group Skin Deep Database Use the Healthy Living app to scan products for safety rankings.
That’s also the reason why I choose oliveda A big part of my skin care routine. The company’s rigorous vetting processes, testing, ingredient sourcing and regulations mean you can trust our products.
As with all aspects of happiness, I don’t aim for perfection, I aim for progress. Small changes really add up over time. Therefore, I don’t think it’s practical to completely empty the drawers and cabinets and replace them all at once. Instead, wait until something runs out and take that opportunity to replace it with a safer option.
Check it out if you’re interested in replacing your products more safely. Click here for the skin care quiz! Get personalized recommendations and receive a free gift when you buy two products from the results.
Zo,
Gina
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