Why should you check the ingredients lists of your cosmetics?
Why should you check the ingredients lists of your cosmetics?
You would be forgiven for thinking that anything that is sold en-masse mustn’t be harmful to your skin, but unfortunately, this isn’t the case.
A number of widely-used ingredients can be damaging to your skin, and often when they are mixed together in a cocktail of chemicals, they can do even more damage. Here are a few that you should avoid:
1) Parabens (including propylparaben, butylparaben and ethylparaben) :
Cosmetics companies use these in products to reduce the growth of bacteria. The dark side of parabens is that they can cause damage to your hormonal system and can potentially be a cause of cancer.
2) Phenoxyethanol (including phenoxyethanol, EGPhE and phenoxytol):
This ingredient is found in shampoos, shower gel and certain creams. It is an irritant and can cause itchy red patches or further inflame eczema.
3) Sulfates (including Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate):
Sulfates are used in products to give them a foamy consistency. If a concentration of over 0.5% is inserted into products (as is often the case with many commercially sold products), it can cause irritation. These products are detergents and destroy the protective layer of your skin. Acne sufferers, also beware: sulfates can exacerbate acne by boosting sebum production.
4) Mineral oils (including Mineral oil, Ceresin, Petrolatum, Cera Microcristallina, Paraffinum liquidum etc.):
Derived from petroleum, mineral oils are often found in creams and make-up. They can suffocate the skin, and as a result, make acne much worse.
____
This list is, unfortunately, not exhaustive. The ingredients lists of cosmetics products can be a minefield. So what’s the best solution?
At KINDD, we make it easy for you. All of our products are free from harmful substances and are 100% natural. This means that the ingredients are good for you and for the planet, with no dodgy side effects.
Interested? Follow us on Instagram, and keep your eyes peeled for our new product launch, coming soon!