The saying that “whatever you put into your system you’re going to see on your face and body” is absolutely true! All the ingredients that you both consume and apply to your skin really do matter and have an enormous impact on your skin radiating to its fullest potential.
Today we want to focus on what you put on your body–it matters as much as what you put in it. Eating a diet of nutrient-dense, whole foods isn’t going to do much for your skin if you are not also paying attention to the ingredients of the products you are putting on your skin.
When it comes to ingredients in cosmetics, the FDA bans only 11 while the European Union bans over 1400! This is interesting because you would think that the FDA has your best interest in mind. Sadly, this is not the case. US law does not require cosmetic products and their ingredients, other than color additives, to have FDA approval before they go on the market. This just means that you are going to have to go on this healthy skincare journey on your own. You can find the full list of banned FDA ingredients HERE.
LET’S START WITH THE TOP 10 MOST HARMFUL INGREDIENTS TO LOOK FOR IN PRODUCTS. YOU DO NOT WANT TO LET THEM TOUCH YOUR SKIN.
These ingredients are not only known carcinogens, but many are also known as hormone disruptors. Putting them on your body’s largest organ is just a poor choice.
Parabens
Artificial Fragrance/Parfum
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Toluene
Phthalates
Polyethylene Glycol
Formaldehyde
Oxybenzone
Diethanolamine
Triclosan
HERE ARE A FEW INGREDIENTS YOU SHOULD LOOK FOR IN YOUR PRODUCTS
Antioxidants
This might sound obvious, but we can all benefit from lots of antioxidants! They prevent and repair our skin’s cellular damage, reducing the effects of sun damage and, of course, signs of aging. Look for antioxidants like vitamin E (which also preserves skincare products!), grapeseed oil, green tea, coffee, lycopene, and vitamin C. The quality of these vitamins absolutely matters. Many of these compounds are extremely unstable and, if not properly combined with other ingredients, become inactive.
Dose is also important as too much or too little can either be useless or toxic. So purchasing products from a reputable product line who is a licensed distributor is critical.
Hyaluronic Acid
While hyaluronic acid really is ideal for dry skin, it is recommended for all skin types because everyone can benefit from properly hydrated skin–and it just feels dreamy. Even if your skin is oily or acne prone, when it is properly hydrated it’s going to be a lot healthier and more balanced, which also means it will be able to repair itself faster when you do get a breakout! Look for this in serums.
We consider proper skin care a journey that takes time and consistency for healing and improvement. At Aura, we will be happy to make a skin care plan with you that includes daily home care as well as customized facials or peels to help you achieve healthy, glowing skin.
Book your skincare consultation today!