5 Chemicals in Beauty Products That You Should Avoid

Many people have depended too much on personal care products to have a healthier and better-looking complexion and body. This is proven by the overwhelming sales of personal care products nowadays. But have you ever wondered what is inside these beauty products? 60% of what you put on your skin is absorbed by it.  So what are these products?

5 chemicals in beauty products that you should avoid:

1. Parabens are usually used as preservatives in hair and skin care products as well as in toothpaste and cosmetic products. Parabens are linked with reproductive and endocrine problems and is a well-known carcinogen
2. Phthalates are used in beauty products such as perfumes, hair products and deodorants to make the smell last longer. Phthalates are known to cause problems with hormonal functions, liver and kidney.
3. Triclosan is used as a preventive agent from bacteria in anti-bacterial products such as soaps, toothpaste and deodorants. Triclosan is believed to cause various health problems such as paralysis, brain haemorrhages and cancer. It is also associated with problems with the endocrine and immune system.
4. Sulphates are used to make products like shampoos and various cleansers form foams or bubbles. Sulphates are linked with eye issues, breathing problems and skin irritation.
5. Toluene is used to solvent other ingredients in nail polish, hair products and other cosmetic items. Like the other four chemicals stated above, toluene is associated with not only one but many health problems such as respiratory and nervous system issues as well as problems with the skin, liver and kidney.

It is really frightening to know that these chemicals are present in personal care products. But it is said that only 11% of all ingredients being used in making cosmetics had been reviewed for safety. We recommend using up what you have and then reviewing the products that you use. A good database can be found here: http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

Are you using low chemical, natural, organic products? Tell us your favourite brands in the comments below.