Benefits of Clean Beauty
What is Clean Beauty?
Although there is no official definition of clean beauty, the description stands for any beauty product with ingredients that will not risk your health. Clean beauty is also referred to as natural, non-toxic, green or organic beauty.
How do some beauty products harm us?
Some beauty products contain toxic ingredients that can harm our health. Some toxic ingredients that we should avoid include:
Parabens
Parabens are commonly used to extend shelf life by preventing the growth of bacteria and mold. Parabens may disrupt the endocrine system, cause reproductive harm and cause contact allergy. Parabens may also increase the risk of breast cancer, skin cancer, and decreased sperm count.
Look for ingredients that are marked “paraben-free”.
Fragrance:
Often products list “fragrance” on the label or list of ingredients but do not name the specific ingredients that make up the fragrance (Examples: Acetaldehyde, Benzophenone, Benzyl Salicylate, Diethyl phthalate, and many more). These specific ingredients affect the kidneys, can cause contact allergies, affect reproductive and respiratory systems, cause endocrine disruption, and can cause cancer.
Look for products that are “fragrance-free” and especially those who do not list the specific ingredients when listing “fragrance”
Phthalates:
Phthalates are commonly found in fragranced lotions, body washes, nail polish and hair care products. Phthalates are chemicals linked to developmental and reproductive toxicity and cancer. Phthalates may also cause contact allergies.
Look for products that are fragrance-free and that do not contain Di-n-butyl Phthalate (DBP) to prevent exposure to phthalates.
Other toxic ingredients you should avoid:
- Hydroquinone
- Sulfates
- p-Phenylenediamine
- Phenoxyethanol
- Sodium laureth sulfate
- Octinoxate
- Oxybenzone
- Triethanolamine
Benefits of Clean Beauty
Daily, we use lotions, deodorants, shampoo, and soaps on our bodies without realizing the harmful ingredients and chemicals they contain. “By incorporating clean beauty products into your routine, you avoid harmful and toxic ingredients from synthetic fragrances, parabens, phthalates, sulfates, colorants, and formaldehyde,” says PIH Health Dermatologist, Avanta P. Collier. “And you will be proactively protecting your health from the long-term negative effects that can be caused by these harmful ingredients,” Dr. Collier adds. Clean beauty products are free from artificial colors, fragrances, parabens, and sulfates. Using these products is an excellent way to start taking better care of our bodies by using products that are non-toxic, gentle, and free of harsh chemicals. If you’re unsure which clean beauty products would be best for you, ask your dermatologist for their recommendations!
