Many of us use cosmetics on a daily basis. For those who don’t, skincare, shampoo, and shower gel should be items that are familiar to you. With these items playing such a huge role in our lives, you would think that we will be more cautious with the ingredients that go into these products. Yet, most of us do not take an interest in ingredient labels and have no idea what goes into the products we use. Here, we have five ingredients you should really try to avoid, and another five that can be good to have.
Think Twice
Note that some research has been done on these ingredients but none have been conclusive about their negative effects. This list helps you decide if you want to avoid certain products if you’re cautious.
1. Phenoxyethanol
What it is: Phenoxyethanol is used as a stabiliser in perfumes as well as an anti-bacterial in cosmetics. While it can be derived from natural sources such as green tea, it is usually synthetically-produced when used in cosmetics.
Look out for these in: Skincare products
Potential negative effects: Worsening of Eczema, damage to the brain and nervous System, reproductive complications
2. Formaldehyde
What it is: Formaldehyde is a colourless, flammable, strong-smelling chemical used in cosmetics.
Look out for these in: Nail polish, nail hardeners, eyelash glue
Potential negative effects: Eye irritation, respiratory problems
3. Triethanolamine (TEA)
What it is: It is an amine produced by reacting a highly toxic chemical, otherwise known as ethylene oxide with ammonia
Look out for these in: Eyeliners, mascara, eyeshadows, blushers
Potential negative effects: Allergic reactions, including eye problems, hives (depending on concentrations)
4. Parabens
What it is: It is an inexpensive and effective synthetic preservative used to prevent bacterial growth in cosmetics.
Look out for these in your: Deodorants, moisturisers
Potential negative effects: Decreased sperm levels, increased UV-induced damage
5. Talc
What it is: A soft mineral used in foods, drugs, cosmetics and industrial applications. This is used as an absorbent as well as an anti-caking agent to improve the feel of the product.
Look out for these in: Eyeshadow, blush
Potential negative effects: Ovarian cancer
Go to the next page to see what are some great ingredients to have in your products.
