Our skin is not only constantly protecting us, but it also absorbs 60% of what we put onto it! So it only makes sense to be extremely cognizant of what ingredients go into your beauty products and skincare. We are always learning about the best and most effective beauty ingredients around, but it’s equally as important to know what ingredients to avoid.
Have you ever looked at the label of a beauty product and been completely lost? We’ve all been there, and with all of the scientific terms and complicated ingredients incorporated into these products, we don’t blame you. Unfortunately, there is little government or FDA oversight and regulation when it comes to cosmetics and personal care products. This means the responsibility is ultimately up to the consumer to know and decide what ingredients to abstain from, but don’t worry we’ve got you covered! Here are 6 ingredients in beauty products to always avoid, so you can take care of your skin like it takes care of you:
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PARABENS
Parabens are a group of chemicals that have been used as artificial preservatives in beauty products for a number of years. Butyl, propyl and ethyl parabens are used to prevent mold, yeast, and bacteria from growing in these products, however, this seemingly innocent solution has been linked to a number of coinciding health issues. For example, parabens are associated with problems such as hormonal imbalances, early puberty in females, and an increased risk of breast cancer.
It’s important to keep in mind that these chemicals can be found in a great number of household products including makeup, deodorant, shampoo, body washes, and more. However, according to EU and FDA regulations, parabens are officially considered safe due to the small concentration of these ingredients found in most cosmetic products. Therefore, it’s up to you to make a judgement on the usage of these parabens, but we think it’s better to be safe than sorry! That’s why Forchics has joined a number of other clean brands in offering products that are “paraben-free” for the health and peace of mind of the consumer.
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PHTHALATES
Phthalates are a common ingredient found in cosmetic products and are used to make plastics more flexible and soft. They are used as plasticizers to help perfume stick to skin, as well as eyelash adhesive and nail polish. However, phthalates have been proven to be significant endocrine disruptors. This can cause a number of health related issues including early puberty in boys and girls, reduced sperm count in men, and reproductive birth defects in both genders as well.
Not only are consumers finding health related faults in this ingredient, but phthalates have negative effects on the environment as well. It’s safe to say this is one ingredient to avoid, if you’re not already!
FORMALDEHYDE
Luckily, after decades of research, Formaldehyde is a more well known ingredient that consumers are learning to avoid. Some retailers have even taken the initiative to ban products containing this ingredient altogether! However, there are still a number of products that contain this ingredient and it’s important to keep an eye out for them.
This additive is used to help protect cosmetic products against contamination by bacteria, and the ingredient can be commonly found in hair straightening products, eyelash glue, nail polish, lotions, shampoos, and more. Formaldehyde can be highly toxic when inhaled and, as if that’s not enough, it can have a severe effect on your respiratory tract and skin, causing irritation, dizziness, and suffocation. Avoid this carcinogenic ingredient at all costs!
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SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCES
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Synthetic fragrances, or chemical fragrances, are very common in beauty products, however this term is extremely misleading. The terms “fragrance”, “perfume”, and “parfum” found on product labels are umbrella terms for the dozens, or even hundreds, of chemicals that go into each fragrance. Not only is the consumer ever 100% sure of what they are being exposed to, but this is also a significant cause of allergic reactions to beauty products.
Be aware of these synthetic fragrances in cosmetic and skincare products, such as shampoos, body washes, and soaps, as well as household products like candles or air fresheners!
MINERAL OIL
Mineral oil may seem inoffensive because it is so commonly found in a variety of products, however, this additive has a greater negative effect than most realize. This ingredient is found in beauty products, such as lip gloss, concealer, balm cleansers and eyeshadow, as well as haircare, and baby products. Mineral oil was widely accepted as a cheap oil that could be used as a filler and “moisturizer” for a number of products.
However, many consumers are unaware that this oil is a byproduct of petroleum, and, therefore, carries carcinogenic impurities. As a petroleum byproduct, it can quickly clog your pores as it coats the skin like plastic. Because the skin is unable to eliminate toxins, this can lead to acne and other skin-related issues. You never want to limit your skin ladies!
Here at Forchics, we believe it’s more important to grow your lashes naturally and with healthy ingredients, so all of our products are absolutely Bimatoprost free! For naturally enhanced lashes and brows check out our ForLash and ForBrow enhancing serums. Just ask the reviews, you can check them out here!
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CONCLUSION
In such a saturated market with an increasingly complex list of ingredients, knowledge is power. At ForChics, we believe every consumer should be armed with knowledge to make the best decisions for their skin and health. Not only will choosing healthier and more natural ingredients be a great move for your skin and overhealth, but it could have extraordinary benefits for the environment as well!
Consumers are becoming more environmentally conscious and the industry of clean beauty is continuously evolving. As retailers turn towards product policies of transparency and visibility, it will become easier and even more essential for consumers to make conscious and intelligent choices surrounding the ingredients they come into contact with every day.
