A closer look at toxins in everyday beauty products

Beauty products are a part of our daily routine, helping us enhance our appearance and feel confident. However, many of us are unaware that some of these products contain harmful chemicals that can harm our health. Chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde are commonly found in beauty products and can cause severe health issues.

This article will examine the harmful chemicals commonly found in beauty products, including mercury, and how they can affect our health.

Parabens:

Parabens are widely used in beauty products as a preservative to prevent bacteria and fungus growth. However, research has shown that they can disrupt hormones, cause reproductive issues, and increase the risk of breast cancer. To avoid parabens, look for products with natural preservatives such as vitamin E or grapefruit seed extract.

Phthalates: 

Phthalates are chemicals added to beauty products to improve their texture and scent. They can be found in perfumes, lotions, and nail polish products. Scientific studies have linked phthalates to reproductive issues. Look for " phthalate-free " products or use natural fragrances such as essential oils.

Formaldehyde: 

Formaldehyde is a chemical used as a preservative in beauty products. It can be found in hair straightening treatments, nail polish, and eyelash glue. It's a known carcinogen and can cause respiratory issues, eye irritation, and skin reactions. Look for " formaldehyde-free " products or use natural preservatives such as citric acid.

Mercury: 

Mercury is a toxic heavy metal in some skin-lightening creams, eye drops, and mascara. It can cause severe health issues like kidney, neurological, and skin rashes. Mercury is banned in many countries, but some products still contain this harmful chemical. To avoid mercury, always check the ingredient list of your beauty products, and avoid products that contain mercury or any of its compounds.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): 

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a chemical used in beauty products such as shampoo, soap, and toothpaste to create foam and lather. SLS can strip the natural oils from our skin and scalp, leading to dryness and irritation. It can also cause allergic reactions and skin rashes. To avoid SLS, look for products labelled "SLS-free" or use natural surfactants such as coconut or olive oil.

How to Avoid Harmful Chemicals in Beauty Products:

Read Ingredient Labels: 

Take the time to read ingredient labels on beauty products before purchasing them. Look for products that clearly state they are free from harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, mercury, and SLS. At Earthy Sapo, we never use anything you can’t pronounce or anything that isn’t truly natural.

Choose Natural and Organic Products: 

Opt for beauty products made with natural and organic ingredients. Also look for certifications like USDA Organic, COSMOS Organic, or Ecocert India to ensure authenticity. Here’s a list of natural, paraben-free, and sulphate-free products for you and your entire family, so you never put anything harmful on your skin.

Educate Yourself: 

Stay informed about the latest research and information regarding harmful chemicals in beauty products. Read scientific studies, and consult reliable sources about safe beauty practices.

Research on Brands: 

Take the time to research beauty brands and their commitment to producing safe and non-toxic products. Look for brands with 100% genuine and authentic ingredient lists, clear labelling, and a commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Also, if some product claim to be “ToxinToxinatural”, then make sure to take a look at all the ingredients. 

Studies have shown that the average person uses around 12 beauty products daily, exposing them to over 100 different chemicals. Research has shown that 1 in 8 of the 82,000 ingredients used in personal care products are industrial chemicals, including carcinogens, pesticides, reproductive toxins, and hormone disruptors.

Choosing safe and natural beauty products is not just a matter of personal health but also a step towards creating a safer world for everyone. Our small choices as consumers can significantly impact the beauty industry, driving demand for safer formulations and encouraging companies to prioritize using clean and non-toxic ingredients. We can collectively create a positive change by demanding transparency, supporting brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices, and advocating for stronger regulations.