In my last blog, we discussed beneficial ingredients to look for when purchasing skincare products. Now, let’s talk about ingredients you should avoid. You might be surprised at what common ingredients have potentially dangerous effects on your body.

Skip the artificial colors. Moisturizers with artificial colors are dangerous, especially because they are applied to a large area of the skin, and they are left on the skin for long periods of time. Not only have some colors proven to be carcinogenic, but some contribute to skin cancer.

Fragrance is the number one ingredient that causes allergic reactions! If that alone isn’t enough to convince you to avoid it, consider the fact that phthalates, or chemical plasticizers used in cosmetics as a solvent, have been shown to cause birth defects, reproductive impairments, and liver damage in lab animals. Instead, look for products that are scented with essential oils, or ones that are labeled "fragrance-free.”

Preservatives and glycols are linked to various health issues. Paraben preservatives, including methyl-, butyl-, ethyl-, and propyl-, often cause skin irritation, and it may even be linked to breast cancer. Derived from hydrocarbons, glycols are often used as humectants or solvents in moisturizers. Some glycols have been known to affect the reproductive system or cause birth defects, and excessive use can result in kidney damage and liver abnormalities.

To become a decisive and smart skincare shopper, print out the list of ingredients below and take it with you when you shop for skincare products. And of course, you can always consult me or any member of the Innovative Aesthetics staff if you have any questions.

INGREDIENTS TO AVOID:

ARTIFICIAL COLORS (found in many moisturizers and creams)
FD&C Blue
FD&C Green 3
D&C Red 33
FD&C Yellow 5
FC&C Yellow 6

FRAGRANCES
Methylene chloride
Toluene
Methyl ethyl ketone
methyl isobutyl ketone
Ethyl alcohol
Benzyl chloride

PRESERVATIVES
Bronopol (often listed as 2-brono-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol)
Diazolidinyl urea
DMDM hydantion
Imidazolidinyl urea
Quaternium 15

GLYCOLS
Anything with methyl-, butyl-, ethyl-, and propyl-
Propylene glycol
Glycerin
Ethylene glycol
Carbitol
Diethylene glycol
EGPE, EGME, EGEE, DEGBE, PGME, DPGME

 Categoried under:  Aesthetics Safety