Natural Beauty Care: Reducing Toxins & Chemicals in your Beauty Care Products

Although I do not use as much make-up and beauty care products today as I used to, I still want to look extra nice every now and then.  And, of course, I want to smell good! 

I think most women and men truly do want to look and smell good, not only to attract a special someone, but also to feel more confident about themselves.  When I do, I want to be sure that I not only look and smell good, but that the products I use will also make me feel good from the inside out.

It wasn’t that long ago that I paid little attention to the products I used.  I’ve never been one to spend a lot of currency on beauty care.  I typically wore Maybelline, Cover Girl or Revlon make-up and nail polish.  Every now and then I’d splurge and buy some face cream and toner. 

I became alarmed when I started paying more attention to the ingredients in products I used. 

In this article, I will discuss the following topics:

1. Harmful Toxic Load Of Many Commercial Beauty Care Products
2. Who’s Protecting Us From Harm?
3. What Should We Watch Out For?
4. Avoid These Harmful Ingredients In Your Beauty Care Products.
5. What Beauty Care Products Are Safe To Use?

Harmful Toxic Load Of Many Commercial Beauty Care Products

Many beauty care products, including the ones I used, bareMinerals, Estée Lauder and even Sephora, are extremely toxic and have earned moderate to high hazard ratings on the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG’s) Skin Deep Cosmetics Database.  And unfortunately, it’s mostly women that use them.  Therefore, women generally carry much more of a toxic load then men, due to the volume of products we use. 

We use make-up, nail polish and remover, hair dyes, spays and gels, perfumes…the market is littered with eye creams, moisturizing creams, day creams and night creams, tonic serums, liquid peels…It’s endless! 

Sure, men use some of these products, too.  But you have to admit, women use much more than the men do.

Some of us watch what we eat and try to eat a healthy diet.  But did you know that what you put on your body could be just as important, if not MORE important? 

When you eat, food travels through your digestive system, where toxins and other chemicals are filtered out before nutrients and minerals are delivered to your organs, via your blood stream. 

On the other hand, when you apply products to your skin, the products are directly absorbed into your bloodstream through your skin and circulate throughout your body.  No filtration is done! 

And let’s not forget that sprayed airborne chemicals are inhaled and go straight to the brain.  If you haven’t been paying attention to the products you have been using, I challenge you to take a look, right now!

Who’s Protecting Us From Harm?

I’ve always thought that the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulated what goes into various products it approves.

This is a popular misconception, as they ONLY regulate misbranding or false advertising on packages.  In fact, they do not even investigate or test products for safety before consumers buy them.

Did you know that over 1,300 chemicals are banned for cosmetic use in the European Union, due to safety questions? In the United States, only 30 chemicals are banned.  Some say the US has a strong favoritism towards companies and manufacturers, which is harming the public and environment. 

Perhaps.

Apparently, the FDA is not allowed much independence when putting regulations on cosmetics, since there is no requirement for companies to report adverse side effects of their products. 

In any event, our laws are extremely outdated.  Congress hasn’t updated the FDA’s ability to regulate cosmetics since 1938.  Until the FDA’s ability to regulate the industry is updated, companies are allowed to choose whatever chemicals they want to put in their products, without listing their ingredients or side effects.

That means that we must watch out for ourselves!

What Should We Watch Out For?

According to the EWG, the average American uses an average of 10-15 personal care products, with a total of 126 different ingredients, DAILY. 

It is also worth noting that an average of 7 new industrial chemicals are approved by the US government DAILY and 80% of them get approved in 3 WEEKS OR LESS with little to no safety testing. 

Many of these chemicals are basic ingredients in our cosmetic and body care products.  What’s more, the EWG estimates that nearly 90% of the ingredients used in cosmetic ingredients are NOT reviewed or tested for safety.

It is clear that being healthy is a choice that we all have to make.  And it is up the individual to do their own research and determine what is safe to put in or on their body.  We MUST know what ingredients to avoid in makeup and skin care products so that we can make informed decisions.

It’s not about blindly choosing “natural” and “organic” products, as they, too, can contain harmful ingredients in them.  We must choose safer products by finding companies that are transparent with their ingredients and are committed to doing safety tests.

Avoid These Harmful Ingredients In Your Beauty Care Products

Following is a list of 20 items to be aware of that could be lurking in your beauty care products.  Some of these may be listed on the packaging.  But many may not be. 

Several products say they are “natural,” “non-toxic” and “safe” to use.  However, their ingredients many not be listed or their ingredients are questionable.  Don’t just take their word for it. 

It would be wise of you to check the company’s website and the EWG’s Skin Deep Database to gain more insight as to how safe the products you are using really are.  Look for products that have a low hazard rating of 1 to 2.

1. Benzalkonium Chloride

Benzalkonium chloride is a disinfectant used as a preservative and surfactant in sunscreens and moisturizers.  It is associated with severe skin, eye, and respiratory irritation and allergies.

2. Butylatedhydroxy Anisole & Butylated Hydroxytoluene

Butylatedhydroxy anisole and butylated hydroxytoluene are synthetic antioxidants used to extend the shelf life of products, such as lipsticks, moisturizers, diaper creams, and other cosmetics. They are thought to be carcinogens and hormone disruptors and may cause liver damage.

3. Coal Tar

Coal tar is a byproduct of coal processing.  It is a known carcinogen that is often used to make synthetic dyes to color makeup and is found in many American eye shadows and hair dyes. Some companies are using fruit pigments and henna to add color to their products, without the toxins.

4. Diethanolamine

Diethanolamine (DEA) is a foaming agent that is a carcinogen and respiratory toxin.  It can be found in bubble bath, body wash and shampoo.

5. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid

Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is found in hair dyes and moisturizers.  It is a binding agent added to cosmetics to make them more stable.  They may be toxic to our organs.

6. Ethanolamines

Ethanolamines (MEA/DEA/TEA) are surfactants and pH adjusters linked to allergies, skin toxicity, hormone disruption, and inhibited fetal brain development. It is found in a number of products including hair dyes, mascara, foundation, fragrances, sunscreens, dry cleaning solvents, paint and various pharmaceuticals.

7. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is used as a preservative in hair-straightening treatments and nail polish.  It can be found where preservatives, such as quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, and 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3 diol (Bronopol) are listed.  It is a carcinogen that is linked to asthma, neurotoxicity and developmental toxicity.

8. Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening chemical that inhibits the body’s production of melanin, the body’s natural skin tanning hormone.  It is linked to cancer, organ toxicity and skin irritation.

9. Methylisothiazolinone & Methylchloroisothiazolinone

Methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone are chemical preservatives found in shampoo, conditioner and body washes.  They are irritants, sensitizers and known to cause skin allergies.

10. Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone is a chemical filter used in many sunscreens on the market today.  However, it is also an ingredient included in many moisturizers, lip balms and makeup that provide sun protection.  They are known hormone disruptors that can alter thyroid function.  They are also linked to skin allergies.

11. Parabens

Parabens are a preservative found in many skin and hair products to keep them from growing bacteria and mold.  If a product ingredient contains a word that ends in “paraben”, such as methylparaben, proplyparaben, isopropylparaben, and isobutylparaben, that product should be avoided. 

Parabens are known endocrine disruptors that mimic estrogen in the body and can cause hormonal imbalances, reproductive problems and cancer.  In fact, a 2012 study found that 99% of all cancerous breast tumors contained parabens. 

It should be especially noted that products containing parabens should never be used on developing babies and children.  These estrogen mimicking endocrine disruptors can wreak havoc on the developing bodies of both boys and girls alike, causing breasts in boys, early menstruation in girls and obesity in both genders.

12. Phthalates

Phthalates are plasticizers added to products to make them more pliable and to make fragrances stick to the skin.  They may be listed on ingredient labels as DBP, DEHP, and DEP (among others). 

Phthalates can be found in cosmetic fragrances, hair spray, nail polish and plastic materials.  They are endocrine disruptors that can cause hormonal imbalances, reproductive problems and birth defects. 

In another study done by the EWG, phthalates were found in 75% of the products tested, where the label only stated “fragrance”.

13. Polyethylene Glycol

Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is used as a thickener, solvent, softener and moisture-carrier in many products.  It is often contaminated with ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, and 1,4-Dioxane, which causes respiratory problems.

14. Retinyl Palmitate

Retinyl palmitate, or vitamin A palmitate, is a combination of palmitic acid and retinol (Vitamin A).  As study done by the FDA suggests that when retinyl palmitate is applied to the skin in the presence of the sun, it may result in lesions and photosensitization. 

The FDA, Germany and Norwegian health agencies have raised the concern that daily skin application of vitamin A creams could contribute to excessive vitamin A intake.

15. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate & Sodium Laureth Sulfate

Sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate (SLS/SLES) are surfactants, or foaming agents, used in various beauty products.  SLS and SLES can cause skin problems or trigger allergies.  As with PEG, SLES is also often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane.  Additionally, 90% of nitrosamines, a common by-product of the sulphation process, are believed to be carcinogenic.

16. Synthetic Flavors & “Fragrance”

Synthetic flavors and “fragrance” is listed on nearly every conventional skin care or cosmetic ingredient label that contains an artificial fragrance (including the unscented ones).  The ingredients that go into making the artificially chemical fragrances or flavors are often considered “trade secrets.” The term “fragrance” or “parfum” may include any combination of 3,000+ chemical ingredients that include carcinogens, allergens, endocrine disruptors and irritants.

17. Toluene

Toluene, found mostly in nail polish and hair dyes, is a volatile petrochemical solvent that can be toxic to the immune system.  Pregnant women should be especially careful to avoid using nail polish that contains toluene, as it can cause birth defects.

18. Talc Powder

Talc powder has a soft texture and has the ability to absorb moisture.  However, it is often contaminated with asbestos which has been linked to cancer and many lung issues.   Some companies are using rice powder instead, which has similar benefits but does not run the risk of being contaminated with toxins.

19. Triclosan

Triclosan, although banned from hand soap in 2016, is still being included in mascara and foundation.  It, as well as triclocarban, are antimicrobial pesticides found to cause many health risks, such as antibiotic resistant bacteria, endocrine disruption and harm to reproductive systems.  Tricolosan was also shown to contribute to gut inflammation and promote tumor growth in mouse studies.

20. Natural

Makeup labeled as “natural” can also be deceiving, as many use a higher concentration of ingredients that contain heavy metals.  Aluminum, cadmium, lead, mercury and arsenic are all toxic heavy metals that can be found in cosmetics. 

When inhaled, ingested or absorbed through the skin, heavy metals build up in the body and can cause serious harm to your brain and body.  For example, aluminum has been linked to breast cancer and lead has been linked to miscarriages and infertility, nerve and brain damage, as well as hypertension.

What Beauty Care Products Are Safe To Use?

The sad part of all of this is that I’ve only listed 20 ingredients to watch out for.  There are thousands more!  It can really leave a person feeling deflated and wonder, “What’s the use?  Is there anything SAFE that I CAN use?”

Many people are turning to Beautycounter and 100% Pure for their cosmetics.  And while they are good choices, these companies will not be for everyone.  I LOVE what they stand for.  But the truth is, some of their products can be pricey. 

But fear not!  There are other beauty care products out there that you may even be able to find in a local store near you.  Here are a few brands that I’ve found that may not only be more cost effective, but are also versatile when purchasing color combinations.

1. Ecco Bella

• FlowerColor Eyeshadow Refills,
• FlowerColor Blush Refills,
• Refillable Duo Compact,
• Natural Liquid Foundation,
• Eyeliner Pencils,
• Mascara,
• Moisturizing Lipstick,
• Natural Lip Gloss and
• Eau de Parfum.

2. Honeybee Gardens

• Refillable Eye Shadow Pallets,
• ‘Skinny Dip’ Refillable Eye Shadow Pallets,
• Pressed Powder Eye Shadow Refills,
• Effortless Eye Liner,
• Mascara,
• Truly Natural Lipstick,
• Irresistible Lip Liner,
• Complexion Perfecting Blush and
• WaterColors Nail Enamel.

3. Pacifica Beauty

• 10-Well Eyeshadow Pallet,
• Eye Pencil,
• Water Resistant Long Lash Mascara,
• Blushious Coconut & Rose Infused Cheek Color,
• Crystal Blur Illuminating Foundation,
• Devocean Lipstick,
• Quench Lip Tint,
• Enlightened Gloss Mineral Lip Shine,
• Roll-on Perfume, and
• Radiant Shimmer (for all over the body).

4. Henna Hair Dye

Want a natural hair dye?  Well, you can find that, too, if you look hard enough! 

I don’t dye my hair, personally, but I would love to hear if anyone has used Henna hair dye!  If you have not heard of this, check out the Henna Color Lab, The Henna Guys, or Surya Brazil Henna products. 

Henna hair dye is supposed to stay rich and vibrant for 4-6 weeks.  You can layer the color as much as you want. The color will build after every application, making for dense, multi-dimensional color.  It sounds amazing!

5. Facial Creams & Toners

With regards to facial creams and toners, sure you can buy fancy brands.  Ecco Bella sells an Anti-Aging Face Cream, a Night Cream, a Face Cleanser…even a Leave-On Exfoliant & Blemish Remedy.   Honeybee Gardens has a Facial Toner.  Pacifica, too, has a Day & Night Cream and a Mask.  However, there are even more natural and easier to use products that are much less expensive.

There are many natural toning options.  Here are just a few.  You can use a cotton pad or ball to dab any one of these solutions on your skin after washing your face.

• Mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of water.
• Dilute 1 tablespoon of lemon juice in 1 cup of water. 
• Add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar to a bottle of rose water.
• Boil 1 cup of chamomile or green tea.  Let cool and store in a mason jar.
• Plain ice cold water or just an ice cube!

6. Face Masks

There are literally dozens of easy homemade face mask recipes on the internet, if you are interested.  And most of them are super simple to make using ingredients you probably already have! 

There’s really no need to buy an expensive mask.  Try applying any one of these natural masks for 20 minutes.  I, for one, have used the egg mask with success. Add:

• 6-10 mashed up fresh strawberries to 1 teaspoon of honey.
• 1 tablespoon of 100% Pure Aloe Vera Gel to 2 tablespoons of milk cream and a pinch of turmeric powder.  Mix to form a paste.
• 4 teaspoons of warm milk to 2 teaspoons of honey.
• 5 – 6 drops of almond oil to 1 egg that has been beaten until frothy.
• ½ teaspoon of turmeric powder and 1 teaspoon of baking powder to 1 – 2 teaspoons of rose water.
• 2 teaspoons of honey to 1 mashed banana.
• 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to 1 tablespoon of white cosmetic clay (such as Bentonite Clay or Kaolin Clay).
• 1 tablespoon of honey to 1 ripe mashed avocado.

7. Facial Moisturizers & Creams

And finally, facial moisturizers and creams can easily be replaced with natural old fashioned cooking oil.  I’m talking plain old coconut oil, avocado oil, extra virgin olive oil and almond oil.

As I said earlier, what you put on your body can be more important than what you put in your body.  And, if it isn’t safe to eat, then maybe we shouldn’t be putting it on our bodies either. 

I stopped using conventional facial creams and moisturizers many years ago.  I now only use coconut oil or avocado oil on my face or body to moisturize.  They are the most convenient for me to use and they are light enough to moisturize without leaving an oily residue.  I keep a jar or bottle of each oil in my bathroom and often add tea tree or lavender essential oils for added benefits and scent.  But that’s it.  And I can tell you that I have much softer skin than I have ever had in my life.

Change can be difficult.  But if you make small changes over time, it can really add up.  Maybe you try a different eyeshadow or blush the next time you run out of your usual brand.  Or maybe you decide to try a new lipstick to go with your new dress.  Before you know it, you may have replaced over 50% of your old toxic products in no time.  And if you do, you will be changing your health for the better!

Have you started using more natural beauty care products?  Have you noticed any changes?  Please share below.

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2. DIY Peppermint Lip Balm