The “Clean Beauty” Movement

No doubt, we all desire healthy, radiant skin. But with countless skincare products lining the shelves, each boasting a unique blend of ingredients, it can be overwhelming to decipher what's truly beneficial and what might be doing more harm than good. The truth is, many conventional skincare products contain ingredients that can potentially disrupt our hormones, irritate our skin, and even harm the environment. This is where "clean beauty" comes in. Clean beauty is a movement that prioritizes skincare products formulated with safe, non-toxic ingredients that are kind to both our bodies and the planet. 

Understanding Your Skin and Skincare

Before diving into the specifics of ingredients, it's essential to have a basic understanding of your skin and how skincare products interact with it.

Skin Types and Their Needs

Everyone's skin is unique, and understanding your skin type is crucial for selecting the right products. Here are the main skin types:

• Oily Skin: Characterized by excess sebum production, often resulting in a shiny complexion and a tendency for breakouts.

• Dry Skin: Lacks sufficient moisture, leading to flakiness, tightness, and a dull appearance.

• Sensitive Skin: Prone to irritation, redness, and reactions to certain ingredients.

• Combination Skin: A mix of oily and dry areas, typically with an oily T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin) and dry cheeks.

• Normal Skin: Well-balanced, with minimal concerns.

Each skin type has different needs. For examples:

• Oily skin might benefit from lightweight, oil-free products, such as our Collagen Beauty Drink.

• Dry skin requires richer, more hydrating formulations, like our Stem Cell Gel Moisturizer, Océan Complex Serum, Océan Complex Cream, Water Cream, and many others.

• Sensitive skin, on the other hand, calls for gentle, fragrance-free products with minimal ingredients such as our Placenta Timeless Essence.

Skin Anatomy 101

Our skin is the largest organ in our body, acting as a protective barrier against external aggressors like pollution, bacteria, and UV radiation. It's a complex structure with three main layers:

• Epidermis: The outermost layer, responsible for skin tone and protection.

• Dermis: The middle layer, containing blood vessels, hair follicles, and sweat glands.

• Hypodermis: The deepest layer, composed mainly of fat and connective tissue.

Skincare ingredients penetrate the skin to varying degrees, depending on their molecular size and formulation. Understanding this can help you choose products that effectively target your specific skin concerns.

Common Skincare Ingredients to Avoid

Now, let's delve into the specific ingredients you might want to avoid in your skincare routine. Keep in mind though, that once and a while, they may not be totally avoidable, due to certain circumstances/conditions.

Fragrance

Fragrance is one of the most common culprits behind skin irritation and allergies. While a pleasant scent can enhance the sensory experience of using a product, the term "fragrance" on an ingredient list can mask a cocktail of hidden chemicals. Manufacturers are not required to disclose the specific components of their fragrances, leaving consumers in the dark about what they're applying to their skin.

Potential Concerns:

• Skin Irritation and Allergies: Fragrance is a leading cause of allergic contact dermatitis, a condition characterized by itchy, red rashes.

• Hormone Disruption: Some fragrance chemicals are suspected endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the body's hormonal system. Studies have linked certain fragrance components to potential reproductive and developmental issues.

• Respiratory Problems: Strong fragrances can trigger asthma attacks and other respiratory problems in sensitive individuals.

Safer Alternatives:

• Fragrance-Free: Opt for products explicitly labeled "fragrance-free" or "unscented."

• Natural Essential Oils: Some products use natural essential oils for scent. While generally safer, essential oils can also be irritating, especially for sensitive skin. Always do a patch test before using a new product with essential oils.

Parabens

Parabens are a group of preservatives widely used in cosmetics and skincare products to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, extending their shelf life. Common parabens include methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben.

Potential Concerns:

• Hormone Disruption: Parabens have been shown to mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormonal balance. This has raised concerns about their possible link to breast cancer and reproductive issues.

• Skin Irritation: Although generally considered safe at low concentrations, parabens can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.

Safer Alternatives:

• Paraben-Free: Look for products labeled "paraben-free."

• Alternative Preservatives: Manufacturers are increasingly using alternative preservatives like phenoxyethanol, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, and benzyl alcohol. While generally considered safer, it's always a good idea to research any ingredient you're unsure about.

Phthalates

Phthalates are a group of chemicals used to make plastics more flexible and durable. They're often found in fragrances, nail polish, hairspray, and other personal care products.

Potential Concerns:

• Hormone Disruption: Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, and studies have linked them to reproductive problems, developmental issues in children, and increased risk of certain cancers.

• Respiratory Issues: Some phthalates can irritate the respiratory tract, especially in children.

Safer Alternatives:

• Avoid Fragrance: Since phthalates are often hidden in fragrances, choosing fragrance-free products is a good way to reduce your exposure.

• Check Labels: Look for phthalate-free nail polish and hairspray.

Sulfates

Sulfates are detergents that create the foaming action in many cleansers and shampoos. The most common ones are sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES).

Potential Concerns:

• Skin Irritation and Dryness: Sulfates can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even breakouts for those with sensitive skin.

• Eye Irritation: Sulfates can also irritate the eyes, causing stinging and redness.

• 1,4-Dioxane Contamination: The manufacturing process of some sulfates can lead to contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen.

Safer Alternatives:

• Sulfate-Free: Many brands now offer sulfate-free cleansers and shampoos.

• Gentle Surfactants: Look for products with milder cleansing agents like cocamidopropyl betaine, decyl glucoside, sodium cocoyl isethionate, or lauryl glucoside.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a preservative used in various skincare and hair care products, including nail polish and hair straightening treatments.

Potential Concerns:

• Skin Irritation and Allergies: Formaldehyde is a known skin irritant and allergen, and so, can cause contact dermatitis.

• Respiratory Problems: Formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound (VOC) that can irritate the respiratory tract and trigger asthma attacks.

• Carcinogenicity: The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies formaldehyde as a human carcinogen.

Safer Alternatives:

• Avoid Formaldehyde Releasers: Check ingredient lists for formaldehyde, quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, and polyoxymethylene urea, which are all formaldehyde releasers.

Chemical Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens use filters like oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, and homosalate to absorb UV rays and prevent sunburn.

Potential Concerns:

• Hormone Disruption: Some chemical sunscreen filters have been shown to have endocrine-disrupting effects.

• Skin Irritation: Certain chemical filters can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals.

• Environmental Impact: Studies suggest that some chemical sunscreen filters may contribute to coral reef bleaching. 

Safer Alternatives:

• Mineral Sunscreens: Opt for mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These create a physical barrier on the skin that reflects UV rays, and are generally considered safer for both humans and the environment.

Triclosan

Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent found in some soaps, deodorants, and toothpastes.

Potential Concerns:

• Hormone Disruption: Triclosan may interfere with thyroid hormone function and other hormonal processes.

• Antibiotic Resistance: Overuse of triclosan may contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

Safer Alternatives: 

• Look for triclosan-free products and opt for traditional soap and water for handwashing.

Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)

PEGs are a group of petroleum-based compounds used in skincare products as thickeners, solvents, and emulsifiers. They are often found in creams, lotions, and sunscreens.

Potential Concerns:

• Contamination: PEGs can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, both of which are potential carcinogens.

• Increased Penetration: PEGs can increase the skin's permeability, potentially allowing other harmful ingredients to be absorbed more readily.

Safer Alternatives:

• Choose products that are PEG-free and opt for natural thickeners and emulsifiers like shea butter, beeswax, or plant-based oils.

Mineral Oil

Mineral oil is a byproduct of petroleum refining. It's often used in lotions and creams as an emollient to soften and smooth the skin.

Potential Concerns:

• Clogged Pores: Mineral oil can create a film on the skin that can clog pores and contribute to breakouts. Especially, in those with oily or acne-prone skin.

• Environmental Concerns: As a petroleum-based product, mineral oil is not a sustainable or environmentally friendly ingredient.

Safer Alternatives: 

• Look for products that use plant-based oils like jojoba oil, argan oil, or rosehip oil as emollients.

Siloxanes

Siloxanes are a group of silicone-based polymers used in skincare and hair care products to provide slip, smoothness, and shine. Common siloxanes include dimethicone and cyclomethicone.

Potential Concerns:

• Hormone Disruption: Some siloxanes are suspected endocrine disruptors.

• Environmental Persistence: Siloxanes can persist in the environment and may be harmful to aquatic life.

Safer Alternatives: 

• Choose products that are silicone-free and opt for natural alternatives for slip and shine, such as aloe vera or plant-based oils.

Retinyl Palmitate

Retinyl palmitate is a form of vitamin A commonly used in anti-aging skincare products.

Potential Concerns:

• Photosensitivity:  Studies suggest that retinyl palmitate may break down into toxic byproducts when exposed to sunlight, potentially increasing the risk of skin damage.

Safer Alternatives: 

• Opt for skincare products that use other forms of vitamin A, such as retinol or retinaldehyde, which are generally considered safer for daytime use.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent used to treat hyperpigmentation, such as age spots and melasma.

Potential Concerns:

• Skin Irritation: Hydroquinone can cause skin irritation, redness, and dryness.

• Ochronosis: In rare cases, long-term use of hydroquinone can lead to ochronosis, a condition that causes blue-black discoloration of the skin.

• Potential Carcinogenicity: Some studies have raised concerns about the potential carcinogenicity of hydroquinone, although more research is needed.

Safer Alternatives: 

• Consider natural skin-lightening ingredients like Vitamin C, kojic acid, or licorice extract. 

• Consult a dermatologist for safe and effective treatment options for hyperpigmentation.

What are the Benefits of Clean Beauty?

Embracing a clean beauty routine can offer a multitude of benefits for your health, your skin, and the environment:

1. Reduced Chemical Exposure: By avoiding potentially harmful ingredients, you minimize your body's burden of processing and eliminating toxins. This can contribute to overall health and well-being.

2. Improved Skin Health: Clean beauty products are often formulated with gentler ingredients, reducing the risk of irritation, breakouts, and allergic reactions. They can also be more nourishing and supportive of the skin's natural functions.

3. Environmental Benefits: Many clean beauty brands prioritize sustainability by using eco-friendly ingredients, packaging, and manufacturing processes. This helps to reduce your environmental footprint.

4. Greater Transparency: Clean beauty brands are often more transparent about their ingredients, sourcing, and manufacturing practices, empowering consumers to make informed choices.

5. Ethical Considerations: Clean beauty often goes hand-in-hand with ethical considerations, such as cruelty-free and vegan practices.

Tips for Choosing Safer Skincare Products

Below are a few key practical tips in order to help you navigate the world of clean beauty and choose safer skincare products:

Tip #1: Decoding Ingredient Lists:

• Read Carefully: Always read the ingredient list before purchasing any skincare product. Familiarize yourself with the common ingredients to avoid mentioned in this blog post.

• INCI Names: Ingredients are listed using their International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) names, which can sometimes be confusing. Online resources like the EWG's Skin Deep database can help you decipher INCI names and learn about their potential hazards.

• Concentration and Order: Ingredients are listed in descending order of concentration. Ingredients listed first are present in the highest amounts.

Tip #2: Certifications and Labels:

• Look for Certifications: Several organizations certify clean beauty products, providing a level of assurance that the product meets certain standards. Some reputable certifications include: 

• EWG Verified: Products that meet the EWG's strict standards for ingredient safety and transparency.

• MADE SAFE: Certifies products that are made with safe ingredients, without known toxins.

• COSMOS Organic: Certifies organic and natural cosmetics.

• Understand Labels: Be aware that terms like "natural" and "organic" are not always regulated and can be misleading. Look for certifications to ensure the product meets specific standards.

Tip #3: DIY Skincare: Exploring Natural Options

Creating your own skincare products with natural ingredients can be a fun and rewarding way to take control of what you put on your skin.

• Simple Recipes: Start with simple recipes using ingredients like honey, avocado, oatmeal, and yogurt.

• Research Thoroughly: Always research any ingredient before using it on your skin, even if it's natural.

• Patch Test: Always do a patch test before applying any DIY concoction to your face or body.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Are all natural ingredients safe?

A: Not necessarily. Some can cause irritation or allergies. Always research and patch test!

Q: Are clean beauty products more expensive?

A: They can be, but many affordable options exist. It's an investment in your health.

Q: Where can I find clean beauty products?

A: Health food stores, online retailers, department stores, and brand websites.

Q:  I have sensitive skin. Are clean beauty products a good option for me?

A: Often, yes, but always read ingredients and patch test.

Q: How can I tell if a product is truly clean?

A: Look for certifications (EWG Verified, MADE SAFE) and research the brand.

Q:  I'm concerned about the environmental impact of my beauty routine, so what can I do?

A: Choose clean beauty products with sustainable practices, reduce consumption, and opt for multi-purpose and refillable options.

Final Skincare Ingredients Thoughts

Navigating the world of skincare can feel like deciphering a complex code but armed with the knowledge of potentially harmful ingredients and the empowering principles of clean beauty, you can confidently curate a skincare routine that prioritizes both your skin's health and the well-being of our planet. Remember, every step you take towards a cleaner beauty routine, from scrutinizing ingredient lists to supporting brands committed to transparency and sustainability, is a step towards a healthier and more radiant you. Embrace the journey of discovery, and let your skincare ritual be a celebration of

Sources:

• Axelstad, M., Boberg, J., Hougaard, K. S., Christiansen, S., Jacobsen, P. R., Mandrup, K. R., ... & Hass, U. (2011). Exposure of pregnant rats to di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate induces anti-androgenic effects in male offspring. Reproduction, 141(6), 805-814.

• Schlumpf, M., Cotton, B., Conscience, M., Haller, V., Steinmann, B., & Lichtensteiger, W. (2001). In vitro and in vivo estrogenicity of UV screens. Environmental health perspectives, 109(3), 239–244.   

• Krause, M., Klit, A., Blomberg Jensen, M., Søeborg, T., Frederiksen, H., Schlumpf, M., ... & Skakkebaek, N. E. (2012). Sunscreens: are they beneficial for health? An overview of endocrine disrupting properties of UV-filters.  International journal of andrology, 35(3), 424–436.

Disclaimer: **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is important to consult with your doctor and a qualified dermatologist or licensed aesthetician to determine the best approach for your individual needs.