What to Avoid in Body Care: The Benefits of Going Sustainable for Skin and Lung Health

Conventional products often contain chemicals that may cause skin irritation, disrupt hormones, and even affect lung health. As awareness of these risks grows, so does interest in sustainable alternatives.

 Hence, we first discuss the common harmful ingredients in body care, explaining their potential effects on skin and lung health. Later, we explore the benefits of switching to sustainable body care options that use natural, gentler ingredients.

Harmful Ingredients in Conventional Body Care Products & Potential Impact on Skin and Lung Health

A comprehensive approach to skin and lung health involves making mindful choices that nurture the skin surface and respiratory system. For lung health, integrate sustainable body care practices with targeted dietary supplements. For instance, check out Pneumotrophin PMG® from Standard Process. It contains a unique Protomorphogen™ extract from bovine lung tissue, which offers a blend of nucleotides and peptides to promote respiratory wellness.

So, which ingredients should you avoid to protect your skin and lung health?

Parabens and Phthalates

Parabens and phthalates are common in body care products. While they help extend the shelf life of creams, lotions, and shampoos, they may also contribute to significant health risks. Parabens, for instance, are endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with the natural hormone functions. This disruption can lead to skin irritation for some, especially those with sensitive skin.

Phthalates, often used to hold fragrance, are associated with respiratory concerns. Inhaling products containing phthalates over time may worsen respiratory issues and has been linked to increased risks of asthma and allergies. When applied topically, these chemicals can enter the body through the skin, which may have additional internal implications over time.

Sulfates

Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), are surfactants used in products like body washes, shampoos, and facial cleansers to create that satisfying foamy lather.

However, these cleansing agents can strip off natural oils from the skin, leaving it dry, tight, and sometimes irritated. For individuals with sensitive skin, conditions like eczema or dermatitis can be triggered or worsened by sulfate-laden products. Prolonged exposure can compromise the skin barrier, making it more vulnerable to environmental stressors and allergens.

Sulfates also pose respiratory risks. For instance, inhalation of airborne particles containing sulfates can lead to respiratory irritation, especially for those with asthma or other lung sensitivities. Regular use in enclosed spaces, like bathrooms, can intensify this effect, making it a concern for daily routines.

Synthetic Fragrances

The use of fragrance is an appealing factor in body care products, but synthetic fragrances often contain a mix of dozens or even hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. These can trigger allergic reactions on the skin, causing rashes, itching, or redness, particularly in those with sensitivities or allergies.

Inhaling synthetic fragrances can also be problematic. Many fragrances contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that evaporate quickly into the air. These VOCs can irritate the respiratory system, especially in people with pre-existing conditions like asthma.

Artificial Colors and Dyes

Artificial colors and dyes to enhance a product's appearance come from petroleum or coal tar, which can lead to skin irritation and allergic reactions. For those with sensitive skin, using products with artificial dyes can result in breakouts, itching, and redness. Over time, prolonged exposure to these synthetic colors may even accelerate signs of aging by weakening the skin's natural resilience.

Artificial colors can also compromise lung health, especially in spray or powder formulations where particles become airborne. When inhaled, these particles can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, sneezing, or more severe reactions in those with respiratory issues.

Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents

Formaldehyde is less commonly listed on labels but is sometimes used in body care products to help preserve ingredients and prevent bacterial growth.

In addition, some ingredients, known as formaldehyde-releasing agents (such as DMDM hydantoin or quaternium-15), slowly release formaldehyde over time. Though effective for preservation, formaldehyde can be particularly harsh on the skin, leading to reactions such as burning, rashes, and dryness. 

Formaldehyde vapors can also cause severe irritation to the respiratory tract, and long-term exposure may increase the risk of asthma and respiratory cancers.

The Benefits of Sustainable and Natural Body Care Products & Key Ingredients to Look For

Natural body care formulas use plant-based, biodegradable ingredients that are less likely to clog pores or strip off the natural oils. This shift can also protect the skin barrier, allowing it to retain moisture more effectively and resist environmental stressors.

In addition to personal health benefits, sustainable body care promotes environmental well-being. Many natural body care brands commit to ethical practices such as cruelty-free testing, eco-friendly packaging, and responsible ingredient sourcing, helping to minimize environmental harm.

Key sustainable ingredients to look for include the following:

Natural Oils and Butters

Natural oils and butters are foundational ingredients in sustainable body care due to their deep moisturizing properties and compatibility with most skin types. Shea butter, for instance, is rich in vitamins A and E, which help nourish and soothe the skin while promoting elasticity.

Coconut oil is another versatile ingredient. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties make it suitable for moisturizing, reducing redness, and even as a gentle cleanser. In addition, jojoba oil, which closely resembles the skin's natural sebum, is easily absorbed and can balance oil production without clogging pores. Thus, it's beneficial for oily and dry skin types.

Essential Oils for Natural Fragrance

Rather than relying on synthetic fragrances, sustainable body care often incorporates essential oils for a natural, pleasing scent.

For instance, lavender oil is renowned for its calming properties, both on the skin and the senses, and is suitable for soothing irritated skin. Chamomile oil can help reduce redness and promote a clearer complexion because it's anti-inflammatory. However, while essential oils are a healthier alternative to synthetic fragrances, be cautious because some people are sensitive to certain oils.

Botanical Extracts

Botanical extracts add vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties to sustainable body care products. Aloe vera, for example, is widely used for its soothing, hydrating, and cooling effects on the skin, making it an ideal ingredient for people with sensitive or sun-damaged skin.

 

In addition, green tea extract is rich in antioxidants that protect the skin from environmental damage and help reduce signs of aging.

Natural Waxes and Clays

Sustainable body care products often incorporate natural waxes and clays to provide texture and gentle cleansing properties. Beeswax and candelilla wax, for example, are commonly used to create texture and form protective barriers on the skin, locking in moisture without clogging pores.

Further, clays like kaolin and bentonite serve as natural exfoliants, drawing out impurities and excess oils without stripping the skin. These ingredients are ideal for individuals with oily or combination skin, as they help to cleanse and balance the skin gently.

Conclusion

Transitioning to sustainable body care products may take some time, but the benefits to skin health and the environment are worth it. For example, sustainable products help maintain the natural moisture balance, reducing irritation and improving overall skin texture. Additionally, they often contain fewer harsh chemicals, which minimizes the risk of allergic reactions and supports a healthier skin barrier.

On the environmental side, sustainable body care products frequently use biodegradable ingredients, which reduce pollution and lessen harm to aquatic life when washed down the drain. These products also tend to come in eco-friendly packaging, such as recyclable or compostable materials, helping to reduce plastic waste and contributing to a cleaner planet.