The cosmetics and skin care industry is an ever-growing sector, with companies claiming to provide products that can improve our appearance. However, many of these products contain dangerous ingredients that can be detrimental to our health.
In this article, we will take a closer look at 10 bad ingredients in skin care and cosmetic products which are often overlooked. Many of these chemicals are not only hazardous for our bodies but also have the potential to damage the environment.
What are bad ingredients?
Following are 10 bad ingredients in skin care:
| 1. Oxybenzone | 6. Triclosan |
| 2. Siloxanes | 7. Fragrance |
| 3. Synthetic Colors | 8. BHA/BHT |
| 4. Formaldehyde | 9. PEG Compounds |
| 5. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate | 10. Oxybenzone |
1. Oxybenzone
The First Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “Oxybenzone”. Oxybenzone is a chemical compound found in many skin care products. Studies have shown that oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and enter into the bloodstream, potentially leading to hormone disruption, allergic reactions and even toxicity in high doses.
Sources of Oxybenzone:
The most common sources of oxybenzone are cosmetics, lotions and sunscreens. It can also be found in some insect repellents, nail polish and makeup removers.
2. Siloxanes
The Second Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “Siloxanes”. Siloxanes are a common ingredient in many skincare products, but unfortunately they can be bad for your skin.
Siloxanes are used as an emollient to soften and smooth the skin, but their effects on the body can be damaging. These ingredients have been found to disrupt hormones and cause organ toxicity. In addition, siloxanes can be irritating to those with sensitive skin and may even lead to allergies or other reactions.
Sources of Siloxanes:
The most common source of siloxanes is from pharmaceutical-grade skincare products such as foundations, moisturizers, sunscreen, and creams; however they can also be found in many other everyday items such as shampoos, conditioners and even make-up removers.
3. Synthetic Colors
The Third Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “Synthetic Color”. Synthetic colors include FD&C and D&C dyes, which can be absorbed by your body through your skin.
These chemicals have been linked with allergies, cancer, neurotoxicity and other health effects. They are also known irritants that can lead to redness, itching or burning sensations when applied topically.
4. Formaldehyde
The Forth Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “Formaldehydes”. Formaldehyde has long been known as one of the most dangerous ingredients found in beauty and skincare products.
Not only is formaldehyde a carcinogen, meaning it causes cancer, but it also has been linked to other health issues such as asthma attacks, neurotoxicity, skin irritation, headaches and eye irritation.
Sources of Formaldehyde:
Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen and bad ingredient in skin care products, is used as a preservative in many cosmetic products. It is also found in hair straighteners, nail polish, and other beauty products.
5. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
The Fifth Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “SLS”Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) is a popular ingredient in many skin care products and cosmetics, but it’s not without its drawbacks. Many people are unaware of the potential harmful effects of SLS, so understanding what it is and how to avoid it can help you choose safer skincare products.
Sources of SLS:
The most common sources of SLS are soaps, shampoos and body washes. However, it can also be found in many other types of cosmetics such as cleansers, toothpastes, shaving foams and mascara. In addition, certain medications may contain traces of this chemical due to its ability to increase their solubility in water. Finally, it can be used as an industrial degreaser for machinery parts or even engine oil additives!
Learn about More Harmful ingredients in Skincare to avoid
6. Triclosan
The Sixth Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “Triclosan”. Triclosan is a bad ingredient in skin care products, and should be avoided when possible.
Triclosan has been linked to hormone disruption as it mimics the effects of estrogen in the body. It has also been linked to allergies and decreased fertility rates among other health issues.
Sources of Triclosan:
Triclosan is most commonly found in antibacterial soaps, toothpastes, laundry detergents, kitchenware and other household items. It’s also added to some cosmetics like deodorants, face wash and eye makeup. Triclosan is even used in some fabrics for its odor-resistant capabilities.
7. Fragrance
The Seventh Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “Fragrance”. Fragrance is one of the most important ingredients in skin care products and it often goes overlooked. Many people don’t realize that fragrances can contain a variety of bad ingredients, such as phthalates, synthetic musks, and artificial dyes. These chemicals can cause skin irritation, damage the environment, and even disrupt hormones.
8. BHA/BHT
The 8th Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “BHA/BHT”. BHA and BHT are two common ingredients found in skin care products that have been linked to a number of health concerns. BHA, or butylated hydroxyanisole, is an antioxidant commonly used as a preservative in cosmetics and food products. BHT, or butylated hydroxytoluene, is also an antioxidant used as a preservative in beauty products.
Both these ingredients have been identified by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) as having potential toxicity when absorbed through the skin or ingested.
Sources of BHA/BHT:
BHA and BHT are commonly found in moisturizers, makeup, sunscreen, shaving creams, fragrances, hair dyes, deodorants, lipsticks and other beauty items. Unfortunately though these two bad ingredients can cause cancer when exposed to the skin over long periods of time.
9. PEG Compounds
The 9th Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “PEG Compounds”. PEG stands for polyethylene glycol and is found in a variety of creams, lotions, foundation, and other cosmetics.
It can also be listed under its various derivatives such as Propylene Glycol (PG), Butylene Glycol (BG), Polyglyceryl-3 Distearate (PGDS) or Polysorbate 20/80. These chemicals are often used to help create a smooth texture or consistency in products, but they can also penetrate the skin and cause irritation or worse.
Sources of PEG Compounds:
PEG compounds are primarily used as emulsifiers—chemicals that keep oils and water in a homogenous mixture—in personal care products ranging from lotions to makeup. They are also used as moisturizers, emollients, solvents, surfactants and propellants in many other items such as creams, ointments and sprays.
10. Paraben
The 10th and last Bad Ingredients in Skin care is “Paraben”. Parabens are bad ingredients that you should look out for in your skincare products. They are a class of preservatives used to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungus, but can cause serious health problems. Parabens have been linked to hormonal disruption, reproductive issues, and even cancer.
Sources of Paraben:
One common source of parabens is moisturizers and other skin care products like makeup and sunscreens. Many shampoos, conditioners, body washes and shaving creams also contain parabens as preservatives.