Creams and lotions are personal care products that are applied to the skin to moisturize, protect, and nourish it. The ingredients in these products can have both positive and negative effects on the skin. Here are some details on ingredients and materials commonly found in creams and lotions:
Positive ingredients and materials:
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Glycerin: A popular humectant ingredient that can be derived from any animal or vegetable fat or oil. It helps to hydrate the skin by attracting water to it.
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Emollients: These are ingredients that help to soften and smooth the skin by filling in gaps between skin cells. Examples of emollients include glyceryl stearate SE, isostearyl palmitate, and cetyl ricinoleate.
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Natural and organic ingredients: These ingredients are often preferred by consumers who are looking for products that are free of synthetic chemicals and additives. For example, Love Hair Revitalizing Shampoo & Nourishing Conditioner contains 100% natural and organic ingredients with no additives or harmful chemicals.
Negative ingredients and materials:
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Synthetic fragrances: These are known to lead to a range of skin reactions, including redness, itching, hives, or dermatitis. When “fragrance” is listed on the ingredients list, proceed with caution. The label does not legally have to list what that compound is actually composed of, which means there are often an array of potential irritants hidden in any artificially fragranced formulation.
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Formaldehyde: This is a carcinogenic ingredient that is sometimes added as a preservative in hair treatments such as Brazilian blowouts and keratin treatments. Formaldehyde releasers such as bronopol, imidazolidinyl urea, DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, and diazolidinyl urea are also harmful.
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Triclosan: This is an antimicrobial agent that is commonly found in soaps and body washes. It has been linked to hormone disruption and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
It is important to read the ingredients list on creams and lotions before purchasing them. Apps such as the Environmental Working Group and Think Dirty can help you find products with ingredients that are safe and non-toxic.
