How to Switch to Clean Beauty Skincare?

We are becoming more and more aware that many skincare products contain harmful substances, but yet we continue to use them because they are convenient, effective, and we have used them for years. And we know how hard it is to break bad habits. Before transitioning to non-toxic cosmetics, it is important to know what is clean beauty, familiarizing yourself with the dirty ingredient lists, and conducting thorough research.

What is clean beauty/non-toxic beauty?

It is common sense to think that hazardous chemicals should not be in the products we use on our skin, so clean beauty skincare refers to cosmetics that contain safe substances that are natural, organic, and non-toxic. Clean also means ethically sound, so not tested on animals.

We are becoming increasingly mindful of food ingredients and what we eat, so with our skin being the body’s largest organ, we should be just as conscious of the ingredients we feed it. It's time to support clean products with naturally healthy ingredients in an industry that is mostly unregulated.

Why is it a trending issue today?

Over the last ten years, certain substances have made headlines, pushing cosmetic safety to the forefront. A hair straightening treatment had large amounts of chemicals that turned into formaldehyde gas when heated, and a number of lipsticks contained trace amounts of lead.

These are only a few instances of the toxins we put into our systems on a daily basis, and long-term exposure to these substances raises the risk of developing health problems and diseases.

How to switch to non-toxic beauty skincare?

Here are a few tips for transitioning to a non-toxic beauty regime.

Understand what clean beauty entails

To begin, learn what non-toxic skin care entails. The ingredients must be non-toxic. It can be confusing to decipher perplexing chemical lists or recognizing that substances like fragrance can be also hazardous. It's impossible to call a product pure if it contains ingredients associated with hormone disruption, cancer risk, and organ damage. Additionally, the product should be manufactured and packaged using sustainable, environment-friendly practices.

Rediscover your skin

When switching to a clean beauty skincare routine, it’s necessary to rediscover how to care for your skin. When you give your skin various nutrients and formulations, pay special attention to how it looks and feels. Switching to non-toxic beauty products will improve your health, but it won't necessarily result in radiant skin because even in the green beauty sector, not all products are made equal. Be patient because each brand and formula will work differently for each person.

Learn what ingredients to avoid

Unfortunately, many global companies continue to create products that include harmful substances because of the need for higher profits. Contrary to popular opinion, a product's existence on the shelf of a pharmacy or a high-end department shop does not imply that it is safe. And neither does a high price tag.

The cosmetic and personal hygiene products we use on a daily basis contain a long list of potentially dangerous substances. Here are some of the worst offenders to avoid:

• Parabens are a class of preservatives and antibacterial compounds used in cosmetics to inhibit the growth of harmful germs and mold. They have been linked to reproductive organ damage, thyroid disruption, hormone-related malignancies, and obesity.
• Phthalates are endocrine disruptors used in perfumes, nail polishes, hair spray, deodorants, and lotions. They can increase the risk of breast cancer and reproductive birth abnormalities.
• Toluene, benzene, toluol, phenylethane, and methylbenzene are labels for the same substance. They can harm fetus development, irritate the skin, produce nausea, and impair the respiratory system.
• Lipsticks, moisturizers, and other cosmetics contain BHA and BHT as preservatives. They are probable carcinogens and endocrine disruptors and can cause allergic reactions in the skin.
• Fragrance can refer to a wide range of aroma molecules and compounds that can have an effect on the reproductive system. Dermatitis, allergies, and respiratory problems have all been related to fragrance. It can also be listed on a product as a perfume or an aroma.
• Talc is commonly used in powdered cosmetics. But if it hasn’t been purified, it can be contaminated with asbestos, a known human carcinogen.

When starting to move to a non-toxic skin care routine, start replacing the products you most often use. Get rid of the hazardous products you use daily, such as deodorant, moisturizer, foundation, mascara, sunscreen, soap, body wash, and shampoo. Replace these products with ones that use ingredients sourced naturally, produced without chemical additives, and are free from substances linked to toxicity.

What does a non-toxic skin care routine consist of?

When starting to move to a non-toxic skin care routine, start replacing the products you most often use. If a product is meant to stay on your skin all day (like a moisturizer) and/or covers a larger surface area like body lotion, they should be the first ones to be replaced with cleaner alternatives.

Get rid of other hazardous products you use daily, such as deodorant, foundation, mascara, sunscreen, soap, body wash, and shampoo. Replace these products with ones that use ingredients sourced naturally, produced without chemical additives, and are free from substances linked to toxicity.
It's crucial to keep in mind that by switching to a clean beauty routine, you may experience changes in your skin as it goes through detox from all the chemicals and adjusts to the new products. Remember to patch test new products before using them.

Conclusion

You can find affordable non-toxic skincare products at health stores, pharmacies, and retail outlets. Read the labels carefully and do your research, so you know what you’re buying and trying.
Non-toxic beauty products are an important part of leading a healthier lifestyle and increasing your overall well-being. Our skin is a living organ that takes in oxygen and water. It's also our initial line of defense against noxious substances in the environment
Not only will you be applying natural, nurturing substances on your skin, but you will also be avoiding major health consequences in the future.