In conventional cosmetics, you will usually find numerous ingredients, which you should avoid. Especially if your skin, your health and of course the environment are worth something for you. Here we have created a small - and certainly not complete - overview of questionable ingredients that you should keep an eye on when you next buy cosmetics. Especially since there are plenty of natural alternatives - also with us.
Formaldehydes are used for preservation in conventional cosmetics, albeit less and less. Because they irritate the skin and damage its structure.
Benzophenones in turn are said to act as chemical UV filters. However, this can lead to allergic reactions - especially with more sensitive skin types. In addition, hormonal problems can occur. And here, too, there is a suspicion that cancer can possibly be promoted.
Mineral oils or ingredients developed from them should also be deliberately avoided. Their promotion alone causes environmental pollution. In addition, they have hardly any nourishing properties, on the contrary they clog pores and thus counteract the natural tasks of the skin.
So-called plasticizers - also known as phthalates - are said to produce a creamy effect. But since they are fat and water soluble, they can also be dangerous for your body. This applies, for example, to the pancreas, obesity or effects on the hormonal balance. If they are used as humectants, they can cause allergic reactions or damage to the kidneys and liver.
Emulsifiers are often found in creams. These substances damage important skin functions in the long term and often lead to their drying out. Which then leads to the fact that the cream is applied again. Not a healthy cycle!
Silicones also lay like an airtight layer over skin or hair and impair important natural processes in your skin, which then dry out similarly to the emulsifiers.
In contrast, surfactants are primarily intended to foam and clean, but are therefore also quite aggressive. This is noticeable if your skin itches after use or even the mucous membranes react irritably.
That was just an extract of it now - but maybe it will make you have a critical eye on your next cosmetic purchase in the future!