It’s Time to Revisit Toxic Ingredients in Skincare Products.

It’s Time to Revisit Toxic Ingredients in Skincare Products.
        by Markey Martin

I promise not to get too wordy here, but with so many new companies popping up, it is essential to consider that no one is taking a shortcut to cause possible concern for your skin. By this, I mean the use of toxic preservatives and ingredients. I know, I know. Parabens are necessary for companies to preserve the shelf life of their products, especially when they can have a long-extended, safe life “up there”.
This being recognized, we smaller companies have the privilege of producing products in small batches using preservatives that are safe, non-sensitizing, and generally accepted for various reasons, primarily because of them being gentle and natural (lactobacillus, for example) in the skincare community. We have noticed some of the larger companies are now offering products with safer and more acceptable preservatives.
Many are concerned about glycol(s), a solvent-based ingredient. Solvents are relatively harsh on the skin, so they should be used with that in mind. Garden of Wisdom uses corn-based organic glycol in a couple of our products.
We do not and never will use this as a “filler.” We will only use it minimal amounts when a gentler solvent is needed.

According to Lifetime Movies, this is toxic, and it is commonly used as a poison.
     I bet we all knew that one a long time ago!

*What is a “filler” in skincare products?
A filler is an ingredient added mainly to improve a product’s texture, consistency, or shelf life without offering real skincare benefits. While fillers aren’t always harmful, they can dilute the potency of active ingredients, making a formula less effective. Instead of nourishing or treating the skin (like actives), they simply ‘bulk up’ the product, often giving it a luxurious feel without enhancing results.

Here is a list of common toxic ingredients to try and avoid:

• Aluminum: Known to cause skin irritation and possible long-term health effects.
• Parabens: Commonly used preservatives that some believe may disrupt hormones.
• Phthalates: Found in fragrances and plastics, potentially linked to hormonal issues.
• Sulfates (SLS and SLES): They can be harsh on sensitive skin and are often found in foaming products. 
• Formaldehyde: A preservative that can be irritating to the skin. 
• Benzalkonium Chloride: This can cause contact dermatitis and allergic reactions, but it is used in many eye preparations, and it is deemed safe. 
• Synthetic Fragrances: Artificial scents that can cause skin reactions in some people. 
• Mineral Oil and Petrolatum: May create a barrier on the skin that isn't suitable for all skin types. 
• Propylene Glycol (Glycols in General): We use a corn-based, organic glycol, but it is used in strict moderation. Glycols are considered toxic when used in many topical products at high concentrations.
• Alcohol: Can be drying and irritating, especially for sensitive skin. (we do use Organic alcohol that isn’t drying like commercial over-the-counter alcohol (grain alcohol).
• Triclosan: An antibacterial agent with potential hormonal concerns. 
• Oxybenzone and Octinoxate: Commonly found in sunscreens, with concerns about environmental impact. 
• Hydroquinone: Used in skin-lightening products but can potentially irritate the skin. 
• Microbeads: Tiny plastic particles that can harm the environment.