2021 is here, and it’s time for a fresh start! We’re all accustomed to making New Year’s resolutions to lose weight, exercise more, eat healthier, give up bad habits and make other lifestyle changes. But, there’s one health-related resolution that never makes the list: a pledge to take better care of your skin! It’s surprising that skincare is often overlooked despite the fact that your skin is the largest organ of your body, and it serves as the most critical barrier to keep the bad out and the good in.
So, what can you do to resolve to take better care of your skin? Let’s start with avoiding the bad, then we’ll recommend some good.
For years, Naples Soap Company has maintained a list of toxic and harmful ingredients we call “Badditives.” Items on this list are harmful and toxic ingredients that we won’t use in formulating their products, and we urge people to avoid using products containing these ingredients. Although the “Badditives” list is quite long, we’re highlighting three nasty ingredients here that you should avoid.
Triclosan
Check your medicine cabinet for anything that is labeled as antibacterial. Triclosan was a commonly used ingredient in antibacterial products like hand sanitizers, antibacterial soaps, body washes, and cosmetics. However, in 2016, the FDA issued a rule stating that over-the-counter antiseptic wash products containing triclosan can no longer be marketed to consumers. Studies have shown that triclosan alters hormone regulation in animals, may contribute to antibiotic-resistant germs, and may be harmful to the immune system.
Parabens (Methyl, Butyl, Ethyl, Propyl)
Parabens are a preservative that can be found in deodorants, lotions, shampoos and other face care products. Parabens disrupt the endocrine system and have been found in breast cancer tumors, and may contribute to hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues.
Phthalates
Found in fragrant lotions, nail polish, liquid body wash, hair spray and other products, phthalates are used as a lubricant or softener. They are known to be an endocrine disruptor that has been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues. For some users, products made with phthalates can cause skin and eye irritation, nausea, dizziness, and vomiting.
Let’s focus on the good.
In 2009, Deanna Wallin, our Founder & CEO, set out to create a line of skincare products designed for people with skin sensitivities. After personally suffering from psoriasis and eczema, she turned her experience as a former nurse and her passion for skincare into a successful business with locations throughout Florida and product distribution to hundreds of boutiques and spas across the country.
Here are three natural ingredients we use in a variety of products because of their health benefits.
Cocoa Butter
Cocoa Butter is used in over a third of our skin and hair care products. Cocoa Butter is derived from cocoa beans. It is high in fatty acids, and helps hydrate the skin, create a protective barrier and improves elasticity. It works well to reduce stretch marks, smooth wrinkles and help calm skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Coconut Oil
Not only is coconut oil a great alternative for cooking, but it also does wonders for the skin. Made by extracting oil from coconuts, the fatty acids in coconut oil have been found to possess antimicrobial properties, reduce inflammation, and keep skin moisturized. We use this ingredient in our natural soaps, body oil, bath bombs, sea salt scrubs and other products.
Vitamin E
In addition to eating a diet rich in vitamins, you should also look for products made with vitamins to support healthy skin. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that is effective at reducing UV sun damage and free radicals. It is a fat-soluble nutrient with anti-inflammatory properties that help improve skin health and cell functions.
As we all look to put 2020 behind us, let’s put the Badditives there, too. Read the labels of the products you use and focus on making better choices not only with your diet and exercise, but also with your daily skin and hair care routine. You’ll see a transformation towards feeling better and looking better, too. Cheers to a new year!