Ingredients we dont use

Unfortunately, in a high proportion of today’s skin care, petrochemical and synthetic additives are used. Many of these additives can be quite toxic over a period of time and, instead of hydrating the skin, may leave an impenetrable barrier which doesn’t let moisture in and doesn’t let toxins out. Some of the more familiar additives that you may notice in skin care and shampoos are:

DEA (Diethanolamine) and TEA (Triethanolamine)
Often used in skin care to adjust the pH and used with many fatty acids to convert acid to salt, when then becomes a base for cleansers. They can cause allergic reactions including eye problems, dryness of hair and skin and may be toxic if absorbed into the body over a long period of time.

Sodium Lauryl sulfate, Sodium Cetyl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate.
Used in cleansers, shampoos, soaps and dishwashing liquid for their foam-building abilities. May cause eye irritations, skin rashes, hair loss, scalp scurf similar to dandruff and allergic reactions. Often disguised as a coconut extract. Should be avoided.

Methyl Paraben, Proply Paraben, Butyl Paraben.
Used an inhibitors of microbial growth and to extend shelf life of skin care. Widely used even though it is known to be toxic. May cause skin rashes and allergic reactions. Toxic synthetic chemical. Avoid if possible.

Detergent.
The synthetic chemical industry’s answer to soap. Made from petroleum derivatives and not as biodegradable as soap. May be very drying and damaging to the skin and hair.

Mineral Oil.
Oil manufactured from crude oil. It is a mixture of liquid hydrocarbons separated from petroleum. Petrochemical hypersensitivity can result leading in time, to arthritis, hyperkinesis, epilepsy and diabetes. Mineral oil does not penetrate the skin so avoid preparations using mineral oil.

Where possible it is best to avoid putting these chemicals on your skin and use only natural vegetable derivatives which draw out toxins and benefit your skin’s delicate make up. For more information check out www.beinformed.com.au