Many anti-aging products are presented with the argument that they protect against premature aging. Their success is also based on buzzwords like "stimulate," "regenerate," and "activate." Most people purchase these products with the hopes of looking younger. The truth is many of these products often contain toxic ingredients because these toxic chemicals are inexpensive and easily accessible.
Even some products that claim to be natural have very dangerous chemicals in them. It is important to remember that everything you place on your skin is absorbed by your body. Therefore, it is essential to become knowledgeable of the various side effects that can occur when using some of these products, including but not limited to skin irritation and skin cancer.
Harmful Ingredients
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
This is one of the most commonly used ingredients, and it is used in over 90% of anti-aging creams. It will easily penetrate the skin and permit other chemicals to pass through. It reduces the level of moisture within the skin and ultimately leads to excessive dryness and signs of early aging. It has the ability to connect with other chemicals and form a carcinogen called "nitrosamine." This chemical is also commonly used as a degreaser, garage floor cleaner, and in car washing soaps.
- Acrylamide
This chemical is used in many facial products. Studies have linked this chemical with mammary tumors.
- Propylene Glycol
This chemical is found in many skin care products, especially lotions. It can cause circulatory collapse, paralysis, convulsion, and respiratory failure. Because the skin absorbs all of these chemicals, it can affect your health over an extended period of time.
- Toluene
Every person should know about this ingredient, particularly women who are pregnant. It has the ability to affect a developing fetus. It is derived from petroleum or coal tar, and it is primarily used in synthetic fragrances. Prolonged exposure to this chemical can damage a person's liver and kidney.
- Alcohols
When using anti-aging products, it is important to see what type of alcohols are being used. Some of the most dangerous alcohols are methanol, ethanol, ethyl, Isopropyl, and benzyl alcohol. Alcohol causes premature aging. They also deplete the skin of its natural moisture, producing dryness and making it susceptible to irritation. Cetearyl and stearyl alcohol are commonly used in many anti-aging products, but they are safe. They are not toxic as the ones previously mentioned.
- PH Balancers
Diethanolamine, Monoethanolamine, and Triethanolamine are commonly used in many skincare products for balancing PH levels. However, they are potential carcinogens and have been banned in Europe. Prolonged exposure to the skin could greatly affect an your health. It also dries out the hair and skin.
- Nitrosamines
This chemical develops once amines are combined with formaldehyde. It is also considered carcinogenic.
Prior to purchasing any type of product for your body, visit the Environmental Working Group Cosmetic Database and enter the product's name. This organization has more than 69,000 products in its database. It will provide you with a great deal of information about the product and the potential side effects.
