What’s in your Cosmetics?
Cosmetics can also be a source of irritation for many people; your body may instantly react to some irritants while others may cause you to become more sensitive over time. The best way to protect your body and prevent itchy rashes, uncomfortable allergic reactions, and the absorption of carcinogens is to follow these three tips:
Avoid the following chemicals if possible:
Parabens
Fragrances
Artificial colours (labelled as D&C or FD&C)
Triclosan
Phthalates
Formaldehyde
Sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate
Propylene glycol
Toluene
Many sunscreen chemicals like PABA, benzophenone, and avobenzone should also be avoided whenever possible.
As a general rule of thumb, find products which contain the fewest ingredients as possible and those which are the most natural. This will significantly reduce your chances of suffering from an allergic reaction.
A product may say that it is “natural”, “non-irritating”, “hypoallergenic” and “dermatologist tested”, but this does not mean that you will not react to the product. If possible, request free samples of the products before you buy them and do a patch test.
Make sure that you cleanse your face twice a day… if you think sleeping with your makeup on isn’t a big deal… think again! When makeup is left on the skin, not only can the build-up increase our sensitivity to the product over time, but it also blocks our pores (which can lead to breakouts and enlarged pores), and prevents our skin from being able to exfoliate itself naturally. This can leave our skin looking dry, dull, and aged. Cleansing and toning your face in the morning and at night ensures that the makeup you applied the day before has been completely removed so that your body – both inside and out – can properly heal and repair. This will leave your skin looking fresher, brighter, and more youthful.
If you have had a reaction to something in your cosmetics, I stock a range of skin care products that are specially designed to strengthen your skin’s natural protective barrier as well as alleviate redness, itching, and irritation caused by cosmetics.
Please call 0433 090 696 if you would like to learn more about the natural AWE Cosmeceuticals skin care range or to book a Facial Ritual.
