Inflammation Causing Ingredients

Damaging Chemicals in Skincare No One is Talking About

Facial skin is especially sensitive, even if you don’t have clinically-diagnosed ‘sensitive skin.’ The skin around eyes, nose and forehead tend to be the most prone to irritation and effected by toxins (topical, internal and external), sun and general lifestyle. It is important when considering any facial product that you look at the ingredients of those products and the side effects that might induce irritation to those most sensitive areas. Here are some ingredients to steer away from if you want to minimize your chances of skin irritation.

Alcohol

This ingredient has the most adverse effects on the skin and also happens to be found in almost all skincare products. Alcohol may take other names when listed, such as ethanol, ethyl alcohol, methanol, benzyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol. Alcohol dries out skin and dissolves the protective layer of oil on the surface of the face, whose function is to defend skin from harmful toxins. Additionally, alcohol can eliminate the ability for beta-carotene and retinol to convert into vitamin A, which is vital for cell rejuvenation. Continued use of alcohol-based products can also increase the time it takes for skin to ‘bounce back,’ once use of the alcohol-based product has ceased.

Petroleum and Coal-Based Fragrances

Coal in skincare? Yep, you read right! Petroleum and coal are used as cheap alternatives to natural scents. However, their inclusion in your skincare can cause clogged pores and irritation as well as inflammation. Be especially wary of fruit-scented products, as it is impossible to obtain essential oils from fruits and berries. Therefore, fruit-scented products are more likely to be synthetically fragranced.

Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate

Iodo-what?! This tongue-twister is a preservative that releases formaldehyde which can cause irritation as well as dermatitis. Generally regarded as a carcinogen, Iodopropynyl Butylcarbamate was primarily used as a furniture finish in the past…and we wish it had stayed that way!

FD&C Color Pigments

These are coloring agents used in skincare, which often contain heavy metals, despite their FDA seal of approval. They can cause inflammation and other bigger health issues. Most brightly colored cosmetics should be checked twice for these nasty ingredients, especially at your local drug store. Do not be fooled, a higher price tag does not necessarily mean that your skincare doesn’t contain inflammatory ingredients. Even high end products can damage your skin in the long run. Make sure you read labels carefully and know the truth about product claims. And know that we’ll NEVER steer you wrong, truth and transparency are part of our core beliefs. So if you ever have questions about the ingredients in our products, please email management@stemologyskincare.com. Sources: Made From Earth, Organic Beauty Talk