Parabens and Phthalates

Parabens and phthalates are toxins commonly added to beauty products that I have not yet discussed, but they are certainly something I try to avoid when purchasing lotions, polish, etc. If you have sensitive skin as well, you may also want to avoid them.

Parabens are a group of chemicals used as a preservative in body lotions and creams to prevent bacteria growth. While this seems good, many people have allergic reactions or sensitivities to the parabens. When checking the ingredients list, if you see: methylparaben, propylparaben, ilsoparaben, or butylparaben, then you will want to avoid this product. Suntan lotions often have parabens.

Phthalates, or dibutyl phthalates, (aka DBP or DEP) is a chemical used to make lotions spread and absorb easier, stabilize fragrances, and prevent brittleness in nail polish. It can also be harmful and irritating to sensitive skin sufferers. Fragrances are still able to get away with not listing ingredients; therefore, making researching it very difficult. I have stopped wearing perfumes and now only use a light amount of rosewater. For nail polish, there are many brands that now advertise as being '3 free' or '5 free'. This means they are suppose to be free of phthalates, toulene, and formaldehyde. 5 free is also free of camphor and formaldehyde resins.

 It takes a little more time, reading, and research, but there are still good products out there, and there are a growing number of small companies in the natural beauty industry. There is also a growing customer demand for products that are free of 'junk'. I hope the growing competition will help keep the prices down.