Unmasking the Dark Side of Skincare:

Harmful Ingredients to Avoid

When I joined Lemongrass Spa Products back in 2014, I was living in blissful ignorance about the products lining my bathroom shelves. Little did I know how harmful those daily skincare choices could be for my skin. The moment I examined a list of ingredients to avoid and cross-referenced it with my current products, my eyes were opened wide. And once you KNOW, you can never UN-know!

Now, I consider it my mission to teach others about the significance of becoming “Ingredient Detectives.”  The beauty industry, while offering a plethora of options, can also harbor ingredients that may compromise our well-being in the long run. In this blog, we’ll dive into the shadows and shed light on some notorious skincare ingredients to steer clear of.  Here we go! 10 ingredients to avoid in your skincare products:

1. Parabens:

Widely used as preservatives in cosmetics, parabens (such as methylparaben and propylparaben) have been linked to hormonal disruptions. Studies suggest that these synthetic compounds may mimic estrogen in the body, raising concerns about their potential contribution to hormone-related health issues.

2. Mineral Oil:

Despite its prevalent use in skincare, mineral oil is a petroleum-derived ingredient that can clog pores and inhibit the skin’s natural ability to breathe. This occlusive agent may create a barrier on the skin, hindering its ability to expel toxins and leading to potential skin irritation.

3. PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols):

PEGs, commonly used as emollients and penetration enhancers, may be contaminated with harmful substances such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. These contaminants have been associated with carcinogenicity and other health risks.

4. Sodium Laurel or Laureth Sulfate:

Found in many foaming skincare products, these sulfates can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. Additionally, the production process may result in the formation of potentially harmful by-products.

5. Triclosan:

Once a popular antibacterial agent in skincare products, triclosan has faced scrutiny due to its potential contribution to antibiotic resistance. It has also been linked to hormonal disruption, prompting many companies to phase it out of their formulations.

6. Synthetic Fragrances:

While pleasant to the senses, synthetic fragrances often hide a cocktail of undisclosed chemicals. These fragrances may trigger allergies and skin sensitivities, contributing to long-term adverse effects.

7. Formaldehyde:

A known carcinogen, formaldehyde and its releasing agents (such as DMDM hydantoin and urea) are sometimes used as preservatives in skincare products. Continuous exposure to formaldehyde has been associated with an increased risk of cancer and skin irritation.

8. Oxybenzone:

Commonly found in sunscreens, oxybenzone has raised concerns due to its potential hormone-disrupting properties. Studies suggest that this chemical sunscreen ingredient may be absorbed through the skin and accumulate in the body.

9. Retinol:

While retinol is celebrated for its anti-aging properties, excessive use may lead to skin sensitivity, redness, and peeling. Pregnant women, in particular, are advised to avoid high doses of vitamin A derivatives like retinol.

10. D.E.A, T.E.A, and M.E.A:

Diethanolamine (DEA), Triethanolamine (TEA), and Monoethanolamine (MEA) are used to adjust the pH in skincare products. Prolonged exposure may result in skin irritation, and DEA has been classified as a potential human carcinogen.

Conclusion:

Establishing trust with a skincare company is crucial, and Lemongrass Spa is the ultimate EASY BUTTON! With ingredients like Activated Charcoal, Apricot Kernel Oil, Caffeine, Cocoa Butter, and Coconut Water, you can rest assured you’re making the right choices.