Ecohip: What's really in our skin care products?

We are constantly bombarded with the latest beauty fads. Shop shelves and glossy magazines are crammed with creams to make those suitcases under our eyes disappear, lotions to make cellulite history and deodorants that guarantee 48-hour freshness. With promises of flawless radiant skin, who wouldn’t want to splash out on these beauty must haves? But what is really in these products? To the masses, the never-ending list of ingredients might as well be in Chinese, you would need to have a chemistry degree to really understand what they are or do. Whilst you might be over the moon with your luscious pout or softer skin, are there any health implications that we are unaware of in our lack of understanding of what the products contain?

Every day it is reported that the average woman applies around 175 chemicals to her skin either in the form of cosmetics or toiletries. The list of potentially harmful ingredients includes substances that have been linked to cancers, skin irritations and even hormonal problems. Many cosmetics and toiletries use industrial strength chemicals which are more cost effective and give longevity to the product, not because they benefit the consumer.

Parabens used as preserving agents in many moisturisers and body creams have been linked to breast cancer while sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulphate commonly used in shampoos and hand wash are known skin irritants. Previously it has been thought that links may exist between male infertility and the use of deodorants and skin creams!

Whilst the products we buy might feel fantastic at first, they are readily washed off and the chemicals they contain can be easily absorbed into your bloodstream via your skin.

Making a few simple changes to your daily routine when it comes to skin care, can make a real difference not only to you but to the environment too! Using a natural moisturiser will replenish your skin with natural oils keeping your skin feeling moisturised all day and can be cheaper than those branded creams that promise miracle cures. So you’ll be winning all round!!