Are You Reading the Ingredients in Your Skin Products?
Whether you only apply lotion on your skin or have a complicated skincare routine, it’s important to know the ingredients in the skin products you’re using.
Technically, marketing phrases like “fragrance-free,” “for sensitive skin,” and “hypoallergenic” don’t mean much. They don’t guarantee the product doesn’t contain any irritants or won’t irritate highly sensitive skin. Instead of relying on these claims, read the ingredients label for yourself. Ingredients are listed in order of concentration except for chemicals that make up less than 1% of the formula, which will be placed at the end in any order the manufacturer decides. Nevertheless, pay attention to the ingredients at the end. Even if the harmful irritants come in small amounts, they can still have strong negative effects.
Here are some key ingredients to steer clear from and safer alternatives:
Ingredients to Avoid
- DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamine), and TEA (triethanolamine)
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
- Parabens (Methyl, Butyl, Ethyl, Propyl)
- Mineral oil
- PEG (Polyethylene glycol)
- Phthalates
- Propylene Glycol (PG) & Butylene Glycol
- Synthetic fragrances
Safe Ingredients
- Hyaluronic acid
- Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
- Ceramides
- Retinol
- Argan oil
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Green tea
At Green School Green Future, we seek to spread information and knowledge for better and healthier living. For natural skincare products free from harmful chemicals and ingredients, check out the offerings from our affiliate, Annmarie.
