Checking ingredients in skin care products is as important as checking what is in your food. The skin is the largest organ of the body. It flushes toxins outward and absorbs nutrients and vitamins from the sunlight. Healthy skin expels at least one pound of waste products daily and works to cleanse the blood and free the system of toxins. In addition, much of what you put on the skin is absorbed allowing harmful chemicals to move past the outside layer of the skin.

With that in mind, it is important to examine the ingredients in your skin care and bath products. These chemical ingredients can cause allergic reactions, severe irritation, dryness, loss of skin flexibility and dermatitis; they may even put you at risk of developing serious health concerns and should be avoided. Among the offenders are:

Benzene – solvent used in after shave and an additive in many skin care products.

Diethannolamine (better known as DEA) – used as emulsifier and foaming agent.

Propyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) – antiseptic/solvent commonly used in cosmetics, shampoos, shaving products, and more.

Sodium Laurel Sulfates or Sodium Laureth Sulfate – used as a surfactant (to break down surface tension in water) and foaming agent. It is found in many soaps and detergents, shampoo, cleansers, and toothpaste.

Parabens (methyl-, propyl-, butyl-, and ethyl-) – most common preservatives used in skin care products and sunscreen.

Phthalates – typically labeled as “fragrances” may be found in baby products, nail polish, hair spray, and perfumes.

Artificial fragrances and colors – labeled FD&C (Food, Drug or Cosmetics) or D&C (Drugs or Cosmetics), this designation is followed by a color and then a number (e.g., FD&C Red No. 6).

Effective skin care is necessary to keep the skin supple and in good condition so that it both looks beautiful and fulfills its functions. Using products that only use natural substances, such as floral waters, essential oils and herbal extracts, will not only allow skin to breathe but they will also slow down the effects of aging and can even repair some of the damage that has already occurred.

Terra Andre` Natural Skin Care creates products completely free of chemicals, dyes, sulfates and phthalates. For more information call 321-952-9624 or visit NaturalSkinCareTA.com.