If you’ve ever used some sketchy skin care product only to end up with an itch, irritation, redness, or burns, then you know there are dangerous things to avoid out there. Since you’re going to be reading the labels the next time you’re buying new skin care products, then use this guide to check for these five ingredients, which are considered the most dangerous to skin.
- Phthalates
These are harmful chemicals they add to plastics in order to make them bend more, and to increase strength. They are also used on skin care products, nail polish, and perfume to make products more effective in some way. The problem with phthalates is that research has linked them to health concerns such as high blood pressure and anxiety disorders. There might also be a chance that phthalates cross the placenta and interfere with normal fetal development.
- Essential Oils
Natural oils are considered safe for everybody, but they may also cause trouble during pregnancy, which is why you shouldn’t introduce new compounds until after the third trimester. Oils such as rosemary and sage are thought to trigger contractions; and may actually cause bleeding. Some oils may also increase blood pressure, but diluting with water is a smart way to get the health benefits, such as improved skin condition, and reduced stress without any of the dangers.
- Retinol
Retinol, or vitamin A, should be avoided when pregnant because of its alleged link to disturbed embryonic growth. Although it functions as an important nutrient for the growth of the heart, spinal cord, brain, and other organs, having too much retinol in your blood can actually be bad for you and the baby.There are plenty of medical publications warning against using retinol either in form of supplement or in any
- Thioglycolic Acid
This is a chemical most commonly used in hair products, and it is sometimes labeled as thioavanic acid, or acetylemercaptan. It is the active ingredients in a number of hair removal crams, and it has a dangerous effect on a growing fetus, but it’s not clear how much damage it causes. The fact remains though, that thioglycolic acid should be avoided by all women expecting a child or recently gave birth.
- Hydroquinone
This chemical hasn’t been officially linked to any severe illness, but the levels at which it is absorbed into the blood makes doctors nervous. Hydroquinone is thought to cause some form of pigmentation, which although not severe, is unpleasant. For pregnant women, the risk to the developing baby is too high for any non-healthy compound being absorbed at a rate of 40%.
These ingredients are more common than you’d think, and so most of us have come in contact with them. The best thing to do to avoid the danger of harming an unborn child is to avoid many synthetic beauty products, especially ones to do with the skin and hair, which often contain chemicals that have free radicals. Eat more fruits and antioxidant foods to safely remove free radicals, and to unburden the body from carrying all sorts of toxic materials.