Journal

Most skin care brands these days are full of toxic, artificial chemicals. With all these dangerous chemicals being used, it is absolutely vital to research and educate ourselves on their risks and side effects. In this week’s series about chemical-filled skin care, we will look closely at an ever-present, toxic substance: sulfates.

Sulfates are typically used as cleansing agents in a wide variety of skin care, cosmetics, and cleaning products. They generally help products create a lather, so it is common to see them in face washes, body washes, and shampoos. Because they bond with dirt and oils, they can then help cleanse the face of unwanted impurities. While sulfates may be beneficial for cleansing, they are extremely problematic for health, skin, and the environment.

A common side effect of using products with sulfates on the skin is overall irritation. Since they are effective at bonding with oils, they can completely strip away the oils leaving behind dry and dehydrated skin. With continued use, sulfates can lead to swelling, redness, and rashes in many cases.

If you have particularly sensitive skin, they can trigger further allergies. Even without sensitive skin, sulfates can lead to a full-blown allergy. Not only can sulfates lead to extreme irritation, but they can also clog pores and lead to acne. The protective barrier of the skin can easily be stripped away by these harsh chemicals. The lungs, eyes, scalp, and skin can be negatively impacted after just a few uses of sulfates.

Sulfate-free skin care, cosmetics, and hair care are important because these naturally will cleanse the skin without stripping away necessary oils. They better balance the pH balance of the skin as well as leave the natural sebum for a protective layer on the skin. Natural formulas made from plant extracts help soothe and calm irritated skin.

Sulfates are synthetically created utilizing palm oil. Palm oil is known as one of the most detrimental substances causing a sustainable crisis. Large swaths of rainforests are cut down to produce it, causing excess carbon emissions as well as destroying countless animals’ homes.

From irritation to allergic reactions, sulfates leave behind dehydrated, suffering skin. It is vital to check that skin care, hair care, and cosmetics are sulfate-free. Choose only the best for your skin, body, and overall health by using natural, pure, organic products.