Skincare Ingredients to Avoid

People use skincare products to improve their skin’s condition, so why do we overlook ingredients that should be avoided? Many times marketing and advertising tricks mislead us and other times full ingredient names are just confusing.

While avoiding some of these ingredients is nearly impossible, everyone can do their best to limit their use. Try buying organic brands that do not use harmful additives.

BHA & BHT

Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butyl Hydroxytoluene (BHT) are found in products like moisturizers, cleansers, and cosmetic makeups. They are added to preserve the shelf life of a product.

The International Agency for Research on Cancer claims that BHA is a possible carcinogen and BHT has shown to be toxic in lab animals it was tested on. These two ingredients can cause cancer, interfere with hormone function, and break down essential vitamins in the body.

Parabens

Parabens are used for a number of functions in skincare products including use as an antifungal and preservative. Parabens are listed on ingredient labels as the second part of a name (i.e. methylparaben or propylparaben).

Parabens are easily absorbed through the skin and can enter the bloodstream. The body cannot break down these synthetic agents which imitate estrogen. As it builds up in the body, it collects in fatty tissue. Some scientists believe there may be one cause of breast cancer tumors/tissue.

Fragrance

Did you know “unscented” and “fragrance-free” products often contain fragrance anyways? Probably not. Fragrance ingredients are not required to be disclosed on labeling, meaning no one truly knows what chemicals are associated with the scent of their choice. They often appear on labels as “DHP”, “DBP5”, and “DEHP”.

It is known that the many chemicals found in “fragrance” are linked to skin irritation, hormone disorders, cancer, and neurotoxicity. Products that truly use natural ingredients and fragrances frequently have essential oils or extracts in them.

Triclosan

Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent used in personal care items, household cleaners, cosmetics, and more. It is easily absorbed through the skin and is not easily broken down when rinsed down the drain (and into the environment). Triclosan is often found in antibacterial items, but is not a necessary ingredient.

It has been linked to disrupted hormone functions, decreased sensitivity to antibiotics, and mimics estrogen which may lead to cancer-causing cells.

Contact Barba Skin Clinic

Barba Skin Clinic is Miami’s leading skincare clinic. We offer a variety of facials, peels, hair removal services, and much more. To learn more about our services, contact our skin care experts today. Book an appointment online or call 305-851-3033.