The Clean Beauty Revolution: What You Need to Know
When it comes to clean beauty, many people might assume that it is just a passing trend. After all, clean and green products have become increasingly popular in recent years, with more and more companies joining the clean beauty movement. However, clean beauty should not be seen as merely a fad or marketing gimmick; instead, it is a long-term commitment to using products that are safe and environmentally friendly.
"Clean" refers to products that are free from harmful chemicals, and that are environmentally friendly. Clean beauty encompasses everything from organic skincare ingredients to sustainable packaging materials, but at its core is a deep commitment to ensuring that what we put on our bodies does not harm the planet or our health in any way. Your skin is your body's largest organ, so it's important to be careful what you put on it. This means avoiding synthetic ingredients like parabens and phthalates, harsh surfactants like sodium lauryl sulfate or sodium laureth sulfate, as well as things like animal testing and microplastics. Choosing clean beauty products over conventional ones may sometimes come with a higher price tag, but investing in clean beauty is one of the best ways we can help protect our planet for generations to come. You might be surprised at how much better your skin feels when you make the switch to clean cosmetics.
Clean Beauty is not a trend, it is part of a more conscious/healthy lifestyle. If you care about the food you eat, why wouldn't you care about the cosmetics you put on your skin? :)
Here are some ingredients to watch out for and consider avoiding:
Parabens: These are preservatives commonly used in cosmetics but are associated with hormone disruption.
Phthalates: Often used to make fragrances last longer, phthalates are known endocrine disruptors and have been linked to various health issues.
Sulfates: Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are foaming agents that can be harsh and irritating to the skin and eyes.
Synthetic Fragrances: Artificial fragrances can contain a mix of undisclosed chemicals, potentially causing allergic reactions and skin irritation.
Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives: These preservatives slowly release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, over time.
PEG Compounds: Polyethylene glycols are often contaminated with harmful substances like 1,4-dioxane, which is a potential carcinogen.
Mineral Oil and Petroleum: These can clog pores and interfere with the skin's natural functions.
Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: Common in sunscreens, these chemical UV filters are harmful to coral reefs and may disrupt hormones.
Talc: Talc may be contaminated with asbestos, which is a known carcinogen.
Triclosan and Triclocarban: These antibacterial agents can contribute to antibiotic resistance and disrupt hormonal balance.
Ethanolamines (MEA, DEA, TEA): These can react with other ingredients to form potentially harmful compounds.
Silicones: While not inherently toxic, silicones can create a barrier that may trap debris, sweat, and sebum on the skin.
Artificial Colors: Synthetic colors may contain various additives and may cause skin reactions.
Toluene: Commonly found in nail polishes, toluene has been associated with respiratory issues and developmental harm.
Retinyl Palmitate: A form of vitamin A that, when exposed to sunlight, can break down and produce free radicals, potentially damaging the skin.
BHA and BHT: These synthetic antioxidants are potential endocrine disruptors.
When exploring clean beauty products, it's essential to read labels carefully and look for products that are free from these harmful ingredients. Many clean beauty brands focus on transparency and offer products free from such compounds, emphasizing natural and organic ingredients instead.
Xoxo,
Camila
*Disclaimer: I am not a licensed medical doctor and cannot diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is provided for educational purposes only.