Before putting any skin care product on your body, read the label. You may trust the product’s reputation or be lured by beautiful packaging, but reading skin care labels will tell you what ingredients are included, if it is recyclable; where it was packaged, manufactured or distributed, and proper usage. One or all of these things might matter to you in a significant way. Take a few minutes before buying and make reading skin care labels a good habit.
What ingredients does it contain?
The list of ingredients should matter to everyone, not just those with sensitive skin or people prone to allergic reactions. If you are looking for a particular benefit from the skin care product, such as moisturizing properties, look for ingredients known to moisturize (Aloe vera, Olive oil, Shea butter). If you want to avoid synthetics (petroleum/chemical based) ingredients look for botanicals containing plant-based nutrients(Calendula (Extract).
The order in which ingredients are listed is important. The highest concentrations are listed first, and than anything 1% and under. The 1% and under ingredients do not have to be listed in any order. The right amount of active ingredients in the skin care product is essential to get the results you are looking for.
Is it recyclable?
If you want eco-friendly skin care products that won’t harm the environment during production, use, and disposal, read the label. Overcrowded landfills may be one concern of yours but also think about what you are washing down the drain everyday. Do not dispose of nail polish, polish remover, or medication in your sinks. Water systems and the life that depends on it may be affected. Clogged pipes are another reason for not washing toxins down the sink.
Packaging and containers for lip balm, soaps, lotions, body wash, shaving cream and hand lotion are just some of the materials that can be recycled. Look for “recyclable” on the label.
Where does it come from?
Where a skin care product is packaged, manufactured, or distributed may be another concern. Some people want only products made in the U.S.A. Some don’t want to invest in products from countries that don’t adhere to stringent quality controls, decent wages for their workers, or environmental controls. If these things are important to you look at how and where the product is manufactured.
What is the proper usage?
Who knows better than the manufacturer how the product is best used? Some times you can find some great skin care tips. Look to see if there are any warnings about use. If you are concerned about the safety of a product do an online search, relying only on the most reputable sources such as Mayo Clinic. If you have sensitive skin or allergies, always do a test on your skin before lathering it all over your body.
Read skin care labels if you want to be intentional about your skin care product purchases. It’s a small thing that can help you feel good about your decision.
Did I miss anything? Let me know what you look for on a skin care product label.
NO LIST
Below is a NO list that was compiled by Thorne Research. www.thorne.com We think it is an excellent reference to help you when checking your skin care product labels.
NO
1. Animal Testing
2. Animal B-Products
3. Artificial Colors
4. Artficial Fragrances
5. Benzene
6. Bisphenol A
7. Dimethicone
8. EDTA
9. Formaldehyde
10. Gluten
11. GMO’s
12. Hydrogenated Oils
13. MEA-,DEA-, or TEA(Triethanolmine)
14. Mineral Oil
15. Parabens
16. Petrolatum
17. Plastic/Phthalates
18. PVC’s
19. PEG’s 1,4-Dioxane
20. Silicates
21. Silicones
22. (SLS) Sodium Sulfates or Laureth Sulfates
23. Wheat