10 dangerous cosmetic ingredients you MUST avoid!
Natural cosmetics are becoming more common on the market but, we come across terms in product descriptions that are foreign to us, have long names or are impossible to pronounce. There are ingredients in cosmetics that we use regularly and they are very harmful to our health. Even the mere pronunciation of the word suggests that it is of poor chemical composition. Harmful ingredients in cosmetics are toxic. Almost every product is declared natural, but that can be a lie. If we see that the product has a picture of healthy food and is green, it does not necessarily mean that the product is natural. We conclude how important it is to read the composition of the product and get acquainted with its ingredients. Sometimes we don’t have time, we may not be educated enough, but that shouldn’t be an excuse for us to know what we’re putting on our skin. The chemical ingredients in the products are associated with tumors, hormonal imbalances and go directly into the bloodstream.
Take advantage of this time you spend in your homes, study the declarations of the cosmetic products you use and take a big step for your health. In today's blog, we bring you a guide to harmful ingredients in cosmetics and answer questions about what they are, what products they contain, how you can recognize them, but also avoid them, and why they are harmful to your health. Finally, we bring you tips on how to choose the best for yourself and what to pay attention to when choosing cosmetic products.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO KNOW WHAT WE PUT ON THE SKIN?
The skin is the largest organ of the human body. Its functions are numerous - it represents the body's physical barrier to the environment, restricts but also prevents the exit and entry of certain amounts of water and electrolytes from the body, protects us from ultraviolet (UV) radiation and various microorganisms, etc. However, the skin also through its small openings (pores) represent the path of entry of various substances into the body. This means that every substance we put on the skin has a certain potential to enter the body and have some effect in it - positive or negative. Therefore, it is very important to know the ingredients of all the products we put on the skin to avoid those substances that can have a detrimental effect on our body and overall health.
Cosmetic products often consist of a number of chemicals, each of which has a specific effect on our skin. This action can be favorable or unfavorable, and the problem arises right here. Namely, for most ingredients of cosmetic products it is still not fully known how they work and more importantly - what impact they have on health. This should additionally take into account the fact that women put various products on their skin from an early age and never actually stop. This means decades and decades of using the product, and thus many ingredients for which it is not even known what chronic effect they have on the body. Numerous researches are being conducted on this topic, and precisely because of them, some ingredients that were an integral part of many cosmetic products ten years ago are now banned. Research is still ongoing, which means that new chemicals that have a detrimental effect on an individual's health will certainly be discovered over time. Since it takes a long time to ban such ingredients, in order to protect your health, the removal of harmful products from your daily routine should start today.
What adverse health effects can certain cosmetic ingredients have? You probably know how the incidence of malignancies in the population has increased, and it has been proven that a significant factor in this is lifestyle. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, lack of physical activity, excessive intake of animal fats and many other life habits can increase the risk of disease. However, it is assumed that many substances with which we come into contact on a daily basis also participate in the development of the disease, and cosmetic products also fall into this category. Some of the ingredients we will talk about are associated with development: various cancers, negative impact on reproductive health, hormonal imbalance, adverse impact on fetal development, autoimmune diseases and numerous allergic diseases.
HARMFUL INGREDIENTS IN COSMETIC PRODUCTS
The key ingredients that make up most cosmetic products are various preservatives, thickeners, moisturizers, dyes, fragrances, etc. All of them can be of natural and artificial origin, and one average cosmetic product consists of 10 to 15 such ingredients. The average woman uses 9 to 15 care products a day, which means she puts about 500 chemicals on her skin a day. Below we will take you through some of the 10 most commonly found harmful ingredients in cosmetic products. In addition to the most important information you need to know about them, their English names are also listed, because under these terms they are most often found on product declarations.
PARABENS
Parabens are preservatives used in a large number of skin care products, especially in those with a high percentage of water. Their role is to preserve the longevity of the product and prevent the growth of bacteria. They are not soluble in water and easily penetrate the skin.
Products in which they can be found
- shampoo,
- hair conditioner,
- body bath,
- face cream,
- body lotion
Why are they harmful?
Since parabens are still found in a large number of products even though they are trying to be replaced with less toxic preservatives, many women are exposed to their effects on a daily and chronic basis. The most vulnerable group of women are pregnant women, but also small children. Studies have shown that parabens are potential endocrine disruptors, meaning they can mimic the action of estrogen and other hormones in the body. Therefore, they are associated with hormone-dependent cancers such as breast cancer. In addition, parabens are associated with developmental and reproductive toxicity. One study found that maternal exposure to methylparaben during pregnancy and lactation was associated with impaired reproductive development in the infant.
How to avoid them?
Choose products that say "paraben-free". There are many organic products that do not contain parabens.
Labels on product packaging:
Everything ending in -paraben (benzylparaben, butylparaben, propylparaben, methylparaben, ethylparaben, isobutylparaben).
SLS (SODIUM LAURYL SULPHATE) AND SLES (SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE)
SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) and SLES (sodium laureth sulfate) are surfactants - substances that reduce the surface tension between other ingredients. They are also used as foaming ingredients and in cosmetic products that are used for cleaning.
Products in which they can be found
- hair shampoo,
- facial cleansing product,
- shower gel,
- toothpaste, etc.
Why are they harmful?
Although until recently it was thought that SLS and SLES are carcinogenic, i.e. that they are associated with the development of cancer, research has established that there is no such danger. However, they may be contaminated with carcinogens such as 1,4-dioxane. Also, these sulfates are proven irritants and can irritate the skin, scalp and eyes, so it is recommended to avoid them.
How to avoid them?
Choose products that are labeled “sulfate-free” and those that do not have sulfates listed in the list of ingredients.
Labels on product packaging:
Sodium laureth sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium lauryl ether sulfate, anhydrous sodium lauryl sulfate, and irium.
TRICLOSAN
Triclosan is an ingredient that has antimicrobial properties, which is why it is often used in soaps and detergents, but some cosmetic products also have it.
Products in which they can be found
- antibacterial soaps,
- antiperspirants and deodorants,
- toothpaste,
- teeth whitening agents,
- face cream, etc.
Why are they harmful?
There is evidence that triclosan is a hormone disruptor and that it affects the work of the thyroid gland and its hormones. Also, some research has shown that the use of triclosan in soaps and other cosmetic products increases bacterial resistance to antibacterial products and that its presence in a product provides a good environment for the development of drug-resistant bacteria. Since this compound passes well through the skin and accumulates in adipose tissue, it is considered to be particularly dangerous for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
How to avoid them?
Choose cosmetic products that do not contain this ingredient and do not forget to pay attention to hand soaps.
Labels on product packaging:
Triclosan (TSC), triclocarban (TCC).
DIETHANOLAMINE (DEA), TRIETHANOLAMINE (TEA), MONOETHANOLAMINE (MEA)
Ethanolamines are chemical groups consisting of amino acids and alcohols. Compounds used in cosmetics as emulsifiers and as a foaming agent. They are widely used in cosmetics. The European Commission bans diethanolamine (DEA) in cosmetics to reduce contamination with carcinogenic nitrosamines (substances that are also commonly found in cosmetics).
Products in which they can be found
- cosmetic and skin care products:
- hair shampoo,
- hair dye,
- perfume,
- shaving foam, etc.
Why are they harmful?
When these compounds are found together with other compounds in nitrogen-containing cosmetics, nitrosamines can be formed - chemical compounds found in the group of probable carcinogens. Furthermore, research has shown that DEA can be toxic to many organs, primarily the kidneys and liver, and the nervous system, but also cause irritation to the skin, eyes and respiratory system.
How to avoid them?
Choose products that do not contain the abbreviations DEA, TEA or MEA. Also pay attention to house cleaners.
Labels on product packaging:
DEA or diethanolamine, TEA or triethanolamine, MEA or monoethanolamine cocamide, DEA or cocamide diethanolamine, lauramide DEA or lauramide diethanolamine, DEA lauryl sulfate or diethanolamine sulfate, linoleide DEA or linoleid diethanolamine, or oleamide DEA or linoleide diethanolamine, or oleamide DEA or oleamide dieathanolamine, or DEA or oleamide diethanolamine.
POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL (PEG compounds)
Petroleum-based PEG compounds are blended with fatty acids and fatty alcohols to create ingredients for a number of functions in cosmetics, from thickeners, emollients to stabilizers. They are often contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both of which are carcinogenic. They are also harmful to the environment and dangerous if inhaled in pure form. The use of acrylamide is banned in cosmetics in the EU, and the EU also sets limits on the amount of acrylamide allowed in products containing polyacrylamide.
Products in which they can be found
- face cream,
- body lotion,
- hair products, etc.
Why are they harmful?
Polyacrylamide itself is not a harmful ingredient. However, it consists of many acrylamide molecules that are convincingly assumed to be carcinogenic. Since polyacrylamide can be broken down into these individual molecules, it is a reason for concern. Studies show that polyacrylamide is absorbed through the skin very quickly and has been linked to breast cancer and pancreatic cancer. In addition, it is thought to be neurotoxic, especially in the fetal period.
How to avoid them?
The European Union has set limits on the permissible concentration of polyacrylamide per product. However, it should be taken into account that women often use more products in their daily routine, so we recommend paying attention to the list of ingredients and avoiding those that list polyacrylamide.
Labels on product packaging:
Polyacrylamide, acrylamide, polyacrylate, polyquaternium, acrylate.
BUTYLATED HYDROXYANISOLE (BHA) and BUTYLATED HYDROXYTOLUENE (BHT)
Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are synthetic antioxidants based on petroleum products, which are used in cosmetics as a preservative. Apart from cosmetics, they are also widely used as a food preservative. The European Commission has classified BHA as a toxic substance. They are associated with many health problems.
Products in which they can be found
- body cream,
- hair products,
- deodorant,
- lipstick,
- perfume etc.
Why are they harmful?
These compounds are classified as toxic substances and probable carcinogens. Also, BHA and BHT are probable endocrine disruptors that can cause developmental disorders in the fetus, but also have toxic effects on various organs.
How to avoid them?
Choose products that do not contain these compounds from the list of ingredients.
Labels on product packaging:
They are most often abbreviated as BHA and BHT.
FORMALDEHYDE
Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas used in industry and products for construction, furniture and cosmetics. The cosmetics industry uses a form of formaldehyde that is formed by releasing formaldehyde over a period of time. It is used as an antibacterial preservative. This ingredient is banned in the EU.
Like formaldehyde, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are also allergens and sensitizers.
Products in which they can be found
- nail polish,
- hair gel,
- hair dye,
- body shampoo,
- shampoo for children, etc.
Why are they harmful?
Formaldehyde is a carcinogen that is associated with various malignancies. In addition, it causes allergic skin reactions and rashes. Particularly vulnerable groups are employees in hair salons, employees in nail salons and young children.
How to avoid them?
Choose products that do not contain the above ingredients. Use nail polishes labeled "formaldehyde-free". Do not use expired cosmetics and do not leave the products in strong sunlight as this may encourage the release of formaldehyde.
Labels on product packaging:
Formaldehyde, formalin, urea, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidine urea, polyoxymethylene urea, glyoxal, DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol and sodium hydroxylmethylglycinate.
UV FILTERS
UV filters are, as their name suggests, compounds that absorb or repel harmful UV radiation to protect the skin. Most UV-protected products use a combination of two to six chemical filters. UV protection is very important to use throughout the year, however, some of the compounds that provide such protection are toxic and harmful.
Products in which they can be found
- face and body cream,
- in the form of sprays, gels, foams, etc.
Why are they harmful?
These UV filters have recently been associated with various health risks such as skin allergies, imitation of hormonal action, thyroid disorders, adverse effects on fetal development, etc. This is especially true of oxybenzone.
How to avoid them?
Choose UV-protected products that do not contain these harmful filters, especially oxybenzone. Safer alternatives to chemical filters are mineral filters that provide equally effective protection and are not harmful. These include zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, the only UV filters that the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) has determined are completely safe. Therefore, we recommend choosing products with these ingredients.
Labels on the packaging
UV filters to avoid can be found under the names oxybenzone, octinoxate (octyl methoxycinnamate), homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene.
SYNTHETIC ODORS
Synthetic fragrances are ingredients that are added to the vast majority of cosmetic products. Under this term, you can find up to 4000 different ingredients that do not have to be listed on the composition of the product because they are considered a "secret recipe" of the company that produces it.
Products in which they can be found
- almost all cosmetic products
- body shampoo
- face cream
- eyeshadow
- lipstick.
Why are they harmful?
The term "odor" can hide several thousand chemical compounds, some of which are associated with the development of cancer, reproductive toxicity and allergic reactions. Since cosmetic companies are not required to put a list of these ingredients on a product, you can never really know what you are putting on yourself when you use a scented product.
How to avoid them?
Choose products that are labeled "odorless", i.e. “Fragrance free” or natural products that have natural scents clearly indicated on the list of ingredients.
Labels on product packaging:
In the list of ingredients they can be marked under the name fragrance, perfume, parfum, essential oil blend, aroma.
POLYACRYLAMIDE
Polyacrylamide is a compound used as a firming and stabilizing agent in some cosmetic products.
Products in which they can be found
- face cream,
- body lotion,
- hair products, etc.
Why are they harmful?
Polyacrylamide itself is not a harmful ingredient. However, it consists of many acrylamide molecules that are convincingly assumed to be carcinogenic. Since polyacrylamide can be broken down into these individual molecules, it is a reason for concern. Studies show that polyacrylamide is absorbed through the skin very quickly and has been linked to breast cancer and pancreatic cancer. In addition, it is thought to be neurotoxic, especially in the fetal period.
How to avoid them?
The European Union has set limits on the permissible concentration of polyacrylamide per product. However, it should be taken into account that women often use more products in their daily routine, so we recommend paying attention to the list of ingredients and avoiding those that list polyacrylamide.
Labels on product packaging:
Polyacrylamide can be found in the list of ingredients under the names polyacrylamide, acrylamide, polyacrylate, polyquaternium, acrylate.
CHOOSE NATURALLY, BUT BE CAREFUL
Before buying any cosmetic product that you put on your face or body, pay attention to its list of ingredients. You don’t have to know the meaning of each individual ingredient or chemical compound, but try to remember at least a few that you should avoid. Try to choose natural products, but with a dose of caution. Many products have a label that the ingredients are of organic origin and completely natural, but this is often not quite true. Likewise, it is not always the case that what is natural and one hundred percent safe. Therefore, we primarily recommend reading product declarations and avoiding those that have aggressive and harmful ingredients, such as those we wrote about in this blog.
All products that you can find in our La PIEL shop are on a natural basis without harmful ingredients, without alcohol (except for hand sanitizer containing 72% alcohol-ethanol) and are completely safe for your skin!
