When you look at the ingredients list in a product you are using or are about to buy, you may find all sorts of chemical names that aren’t familiar to you. Two of these chemical types are Sulfates and Parabens.
Parabens are man-made chemicals used to preserve cosmetics, medicines, foods, and other products and help prevent mold and bacteria growth. This means that the products will last longer. But various studies indicate that parabens can disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility and reproductive organs, affect birth outcomes, and increase the risk of cancer. They can also cause skin irritation.
Sulfate is a salt that forms when sulfuric acid reacts with another chemical. Sulfates include synthetic sulfate-based chemicals, such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate. These compounds are produced from petroleum and plant sources like coconut and palm oil. You’ll mostly find them in your cleaning and personal care items. They are used to create lather, so you think you’re getting more cleaning power.
Sulfates can irritate eyes, skin, and lungs, especially with long-term use, and can lead to cancer. Products with sulfates that get washed down the drain may also be toxic to aquatic animals. Many products with sulfates are tested on animals to measure how they will react.
If you use products with these chemicals or other harmful ingredients, they could end up giving you health issues at some point in your life, because the body cannot easily get rid of them by itself.
You CAN take charge of your health and totally control what goes onto your skin by choosing products with healthy, natural and plant-based ingredients that will keep not only your skin healthy, but all the rest of your body as well. At Amavi we opt for healthy and environmentally friendly alternatives, using only natural ingredients that are beneficial and healthy for your hair and your skin. Give them a try!