09/17/2018
Ok, this is a long post. But it’s important. Please take 3-4 minutes to read it.
Let’s face it...there are not a lot of regulations for commercial toiletry, skin care or cosmetic products. It’s extremely unfortunate but 100% true 😢. That’s why I LOVE DIYing all of my soap and skincare products. It makes me feel confident to know that I have complete control over the ingredients that go into my products. Am I guilty of using the occasional fragrance oil? Absolutely! I figure small doses in my soap that I wash off is ok every once in a while. Just like anything else, the key is moderation. However I will not use artificial ingredients on anything that stays on my or my family’s skin. Which is why I only use essential oils in my lotions and balms.
I was a long time fan of bath & body works in years past. But have you ever paid attention to the ingredient list on their products? It’s not good. Suddenly I feel guilty for ever gifting Bath & Body Works to anyone. Check out the snap shot of the ingredient list of this lotion.
Here is a little info on some of these yucky ingredients that we should all really avoid.
BHA and BHT: these are synthetic antioxidants used to extend the shelf life of skin care and cosmetic products. They are likely carcinogens and hormone disruptors and may even cause liver damage. Remember, the liver is the body’s natural filtration system. So it has to work hard to keep these toxins from damaging your other organs.
Found in: lipsticks, moisturizers, diaper creams, and other cosmetics.
Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA): a chelating (binding) agent added to cosmetics to improve stability. Yep, these are great for making sure your lotion keeps its consistency for years so that the water doesn’t separate from other ingredients and it keeps the lotion from going gritty. However...it may be toxic to your organs.
Found in: hair color, moisturizers, hair styling products
Parabens (methyl-, isobutyl-, propyl- and others. Any name that ends in paraben is a no no): a class of preservatives commonly used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. Parabens are endocrine (hormone) disruptors, which may alter important hormone mechanisms in our bodies. This may be a huge culprit for infertility in younger couples 😢.
Found in: shampoo, face cleanser, body wash, body lotion, foundation.
***Plus artificial fragrance and color.