I think that knowledge is empowerment. And, as consumers we really need to be in the know when we are shopping and looking for beauty products to put on our precious skin and bodies. It doesn't matter whether it says "natural" or not. This word means different things to different people because the law allows this term to be loosely applied.
I have done several posts on this topic and feel that health comes before beauty. Especially when it comes to carcinogenic chemicals and preservatives being put into makeup and foods. Why take the risk of placing chemicals in our bodies without full information? And, relying on the FDA doesn't guarantee safety.
In this article I will give some brief information about some common ingredients that are found in beauty products.
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is used for reducing the appearance of dark spots and for skin lightening. It has been considered an alternative to hydroquinone.(Hydroquinone is an old skin lightener that has been on the market for decades. It has eventually been found to be carcinogenic and cause liver damage.Although it remain on the market in the US, many countries have banned its use.)
Licorice
This root extract helps to fade discolorations. An example would be hyperpigmentation that often accompanies aging and excess sun exposure.
Bearberry extract
This is a natural skin lightener that inhibits melanin production. Melanin in the outer layers of the skin is what gives color and pigment to the skin.
Hyaluronic acid
Provides great moisturization for the skin. It is able to retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
Salicylic acid
This substance is great for cleansing excess oil from the pores. It is often used in acne treatments. It is better for women of color to start with this substance since it is milder.
Niacinamide
Helps to decrease sebum production and evens out skin tone.
Ferulic Acid
This ingredient enhances the effects of vitamins C and E. It also helps break up pigment and evens out skin tone.
Sources:
"The Good stuff" Essence Magazine
I have done several posts on this topic and feel that health comes before beauty. Especially when it comes to carcinogenic chemicals and preservatives being put into makeup and foods. Why take the risk of placing chemicals in our bodies without full information? And, relying on the FDA doesn't guarantee safety.In this article I will give some brief information about some common ingredients that are found in beauty products.
Kojic Acid
Kojic acid is used for reducing the appearance of dark spots and for skin lightening. It has been considered an alternative to hydroquinone.(Hydroquinone is an old skin lightener that has been on the market for decades. It has eventually been found to be carcinogenic and cause liver damage.Although it remain on the market in the US, many countries have banned its use.)
Licorice
This root extract helps to fade discolorations. An example would be hyperpigmentation that often accompanies aging and excess sun exposure.
Bearberry extract
This is a natural skin lightener that inhibits melanin production. Melanin in the outer layers of the skin is what gives color and pigment to the skin.
Hyaluronic acid
Provides great moisturization for the skin. It is able to retain up to 1,000 times its weight in water.
Salicylic acid
This substance is great for cleansing excess oil from the pores. It is often used in acne treatments. It is better for women of color to start with this substance since it is milder.
Niacinamide
Helps to decrease sebum production and evens out skin tone.
Ferulic Acid
This ingredient enhances the effects of vitamins C and E. It also helps break up pigment and evens out skin tone.
Sources:
"The Good stuff" Essence Magazine
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