The ingredients list is probably the last thing we think of when buying beauty products. We are too focused on color, underlying hues, the formula, price, etc. While words such as natural, green, and organic may sound appealing in a beauty product, they can actually be very misleading. Are you paying attention to what you are putting on your face?
Formaldehyde
How would you react if you went to soak in a nice hot bath after a long day of work only to realize you were soaking in formaldehyde? Yeah, we don't like the sound of that either. Formaldehyde is a common preservative in cosmetics and can be linked to asthma, neurotoxicity and developmental toxicity.
Imidazolidinyl Urea
Imidazolidinyl Urea is one of the "formaldehyde releasers." It has been shown to increase dermatitis, which is a skin rash caused by a certain substance. It can be found in many products such as body wash, eye liner, eye shadow, eye cream, lotion, cleanser, face powder and moisturizers.
Bisphenol A
Bisphenol A can cause some serious side effects, like DNA changing serious. This chemical can be found in plastic and is also used to line aluminum cans. Next time you go to use eyeshadow, check to see if it has Bisphenol A. It can actually transfer from the plastic case to the eyeshadow itself.
Mineral Oil
Mineral oil sounds harmless doesn't it? Well, think again. Mineral oil is a byproduct of petroleum. This can cause an allergic reaction that leads to inflammation of the skin. Watch out for mineral oil in ointments.
Talc
Talc can be found in many products, such as baby powder, eye shadow, blush and deodorant. It has the same consistency as asbestos and can cause ovarian cancer and respiratory problems. Make sure you're using powders that are free of this chemical.
Coal Tar
Coal tar in your beauty product?! That just sounds gross! Coal tar is a carcinogen and is a product of coal processing. It's actually used as a colorant in hair dye and shampoo. You could be washing your hair with coal tar!
BHA And BHT
While the abbreviations may sound harmless, these chemicals certainly are harmful. They are both synthetic antioxidants which are used to extend the shelf life of certain beauty products. But they also can cause liver damage. Make sure your lipsticks don't contain BHA or BHT.
PEGs
PEGs are found in many concealers, eye creams, tooth whitening strips, face masks, foot creams and lip balms. They are often used as a laxative ingredient because they increase the amount of water in the intestinal tract. Although PEGs don't have quite the same effect when found in makeup, it's better to be safe rather than sorry.
Sodium Lauryl
If your skin gets irritated easily, better make sure you steer clear of products with sodium lauryl. This sulfate has been found to create irritation and inflammation of the skin. It can be found in makeup remover, shampoo, conditioner, cleanser, detangler and soap.
Oxybenzone
If you find yourself out in the sun a lot, chances are you go through quite a lot of sunscreen. Some sunscreen products contain oxybenzone. Oxybenzone is an ultraviolet light absorber and has been known to cause irritation and allergies. Look carefully at your sunscreen bottle next time you go out for a day in the sun!
Mercury
We all know mercury is not good for us, but did you know it can also be found in some of your beauty products? Yep, some mascaras and eye drops contain mercury. Mercury is a known allergen that can impair brain development. Before applying a fresh coat of mascara, check the bottle to make sure it's mercury free.
Phthalates
Phthalates are present in some fragrances, perfumes, deodorants and lotions. While a few countries have banned them in children's toys, they are still present in these beauty products. They have been linked to endocrine disruption, cancer and liver, kidney and lung damage.
Isoprophyl Alcohol
Isoprophyl Alcohol is actually used in antifreeze believe it or not and it can be found in your beauty products too. The real danger comes when you ingest it directly, more so than its presence in cosmetic products. It is found in nail polish, acne treatments, pore strips and hair dye. It is the product that creates that alcohol smell. So next time you paint your nails, make sure to not breathe too deeply.
Animal Fat
The last thing you want in your beauty products is animal fat. Fat from animals such as emus, minks and sharks are used in soap and shavings products. Gross!
Triclosan
Triclosan is found in many antibacterial products, from hand sanitizer to deodorants. It is actually linked to cancer and endocrine disruption. So before you use any antibacterial product, make sure to check the label for this toxic chemical!