1. Parabens

Parabens are preservatives that increase the shelf life of products. You’ll see them listed as Methyl, Ethyl, Propyl, Benzyl, Butyl, Isobutyl or something similar.

Parabens can cause redness and allergic reactions, particularly as they can enter the bloodstream. They can mimic oestrogen and act as endocrine disrupters. There is an unconfirmed link to these chemicals causing breast cancer as well.

Phthalates help fragrances and perfumes adhere to the skin. According to the CDC,  researchers found measurable levels in the general US population and concluded that phthalate exposure is widespread. Additionally, women are seen to have higher levels of these chemicals possibly due to the use of cosmetics, skincare, body lotions etc.

Phthalates are endocrine disrupters and may lead to birth defects.  The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists have issued an opinion that pregnant women should be informed of the dangers of environmental toxins like phthalates.

Since these are found in fragrance and perfumes it is recommended to look for “Fragrance-Free” or “Without Synthetic Fragrance” products because phthalates are not necessarily always required to be listed on skincare product labels.

3. SLS AND SLES

SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate) or SLE (Sodium Laureth Sulfate) are compounds formed from petroleum and plant sources such as coconut and palm oil. These sulfate compounds can cause skin irritation, particularly around your eyes and mouth. This is because they strip your skin of all moisture making it prone to irritation. They are therefore very harmful to sensitive skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Although these synthetic are derived from petroleum and palm oil, they harmful to the environment as well.

4. PEGS

This stands for polyethene glycol and are tiny plastic beads found in face, lip and body scrubs, as well as toothpaste. They act as exfoliators on the skin but can irritant and can cause major skin issues. Not only can PEGs cause skin irritation but can potentially be turned into a carcinogen. The beads are also not great for marine life and the environment. They are often listed as numbers so best avoided.

5.Fragrance

Although fragrance makes beauty products smell nice, companies don’t have to define what this ingredient is made up of. Always look for ‘fragrance-free’ or ‘free from artificial fragrance’ on skincare products.

6. Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is a byproduct of crude oil. It is also contaminated with other chemicals, which you could be putting on your face. It is cheap, has no odour and never goes bad and often used in cleansers and moisturisers as a hydration ingredient. It can clog your pores and make conditions such as acne worse.

Avoid ingredients such as Propylene Glycol, Paraffin, Mineral Oil, Butylene Glycol, Isopropyl Alcohol and Petrolatum. Instead, use products with natural plant oils, which provide plenty of nourishment without clogging your pores.

Alcohols are often used to make products feel lighter on the skin and to help some ingredients like penetrate more effectively. It can irritate and dry skin especially if your skin texture is fairly dry. Avoid products with isopropyl alcohol, SD alcohol 40 and ethyl alcohol.

So should you switch to organic products? Not necessarily! The EU regulations have a strict code on how much of these chemicals are added to a product as it is the amount of the ingredient coming into contact with our skin that really matters. So sometimes using terms such as ‘ clean products’ or ‘organic products’ is merely a marketing gimmick.

Also, you have to bear in mind your own skincare journey. If an unclean product suits you and is highly effective then you could use this in the short term until they have resolved your problem, then try and switch to a cleaner product. Patients with sensitive skins particular eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis should, however, try and avoid these ingredients as much as possible to save themselves the risk of flare-ups.

Also worth noting is that just because a product claims to contain natural plant ingredients does not mean this it is organic and will not contain any harmful ingredients. There are a number of well known cosmetic brands that use this in their marketing but are riddled with perfume and alcohol to make them look, smell and feel pleasant. Always check the ingredients !.

I am happy to say that our medical-grade skincare range from AlumierMD supports clean science. All their products are dye-free, artificial fragrance-free, paraben-free, chemical sunscreen filter-free, sulphate-free and animal cruelty-free. Book in for your complimentary consultation if you would like to give them a try!