Skin Care

5 Skin Care Ingredients You Want to Avoid

In a world of products boasting “all-natural,” “100% organic,” and “100% pure,” it’s not hard to understand why many people are turning to “clean” skin care products. Unfortunately, the same standards of purity that we demand from food are not quite as accurate when it comes to skincare products—and that’s a big mistake. In fact, many of the ingredients commonly found in skin care products are simply bad for your skin.  Not only can they be damaging to your skin but they can also be bad for your health.

Below are 5 common skincare ingredients that you want to avoid.

1.  Parabens

These are synthetic preservatives that are commonly used in skincare products. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has identified several parabens that have been linked to breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Some of the parabens have been banned from the European Union, and this may soon happen in the United States as well. This shows us just how dangerous they are.

2.  Phthalates

Phthalates are chemicals that are widely used in personal care products. They are often added to make the product smell good or give the appearance of a softer feel. Some phthalates have been linked to birth defects in animals, and that’s not very reassuring.  Here is a look at why phthalates and parabens are so bad for you.

3.  Fragrance

This is another ingredient that is very popular with skincare manufacturers. This is because fragrances are known to help make products smell good, and so it is easy to see why companies would want to include them in their products. Unfortunately, they contain ingredients that can be toxic to your skin and your health.

4.  Sulfates

Another commonly found ingredient in skin care products is sulfates.  They are very effective at keeping products looking fresh and clean. Unfortunately, however, they are extremely harsh on your skin. Sulfates are linked to rashes and eczema, and this is especially problematic for people with sensitive skin.

5.  Alcohol

While the use of alcohol in skincare products may seem innocent at first, you should be wary of the effects that this ingredient has on your skin. Alcohol strips the natural oils from your skin and dries out your skin. The alcohol can even cause your skin to crack and peel.

The good news is, when it comes to skincare products, you don’t have to rely on questionable ingredients to treat the skin. The best natural skincare products use organic ingredients that nourish and replenish the skin, leaving it soft and supple.

Skin Care

Skin Care Hacks for Glowing Skin

As you age, it’s important to look after your skin, but sometimes we have no idea where to begin. From using essential oils to prevent wrinkles to using honey as an exfoliator, here are some simple skin care hacks that will help you get your glow back.

Start with Your Diet

Diet plays a major role in the overall appearance of your skin. Certain foods can contribute to the appearance of dark spots and wrinkles. These include:

  • Processed foods: Sugar and salt are two of the main culprits in causing wrinkles. They are added to food as preservatives and to make food taste better.
  • Sugar: Too much sugar in your diet can lead to increased cholesterol levels, which in turn can cause dark spots and wrinkles on your skin.

Stay Hydrated

A dehydrated body will have lower amounts of water content, which leads to dry skin, dull hair, and even brittle nails. Hydrate your body with at least 8 glasses of water each day.

Use Lots of Sunscreen

To protect your skin from sun damage, you should use sunscreen every day. It is best to use sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher.  Sun damage is one of the biggest causes of wrinkles and aging skin.  Aging skin isn’t the only thing you need to worry about, sunscreen can also help to protect you from skin cancer too.

Apply Honey

Honey is a natural product, and relatively inexpensive, yet it works as well as some of the more expensive serums and exfoliants. It can help remove dead skin cells, and it contains antibacterial properties. To cleanse your skin, put a drop of honey on a cotton ball, and apply it to your face. Leave it on for about 10 minutes and wash it off.

Clean Your Makeup Brushes

Dirty makeup brushes may cause skin irritation and harm your eyes. Make sure that your brushes are kept clean. You can use a solution of warm water, white vinegar, and dish soap to clean them.

Don’t Wash Your Face in the Morning

If you have an elaborate routine at night for cleaning and moisturizing your skin, washing it in the morning will strip all of that moisture out of your skin.  By all means, splash some water on your face, but there is no need to use your cleanser again.

Massage Your Face When Applying Moisturizer

Massaging our face increases blood flow, that in turn helps.  The best thing you can do for your skin is to eat right, get regular sleep, exercise regularly, and stick to a skincare routine.  Good skin doesn’t really come from quick hacks, it comes from living well and taking care of yourself.