When it comes to skincare products, moisturisers and cleansers are a staple in many people's routines.

They help to hydrate, nourish and seemingly clean the skin, leaving it looking and feeling soft and supple. However, not all beauty products are as they appear.... some ingredients that are commonly found in them have been linked to negative health effects. 

In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of these ingredients and what you need to know about them.

Parabens: These are a type of preservative that is used to extend the shelf life of products. They are often found in moisturisers and other skincare products, as well as in cosmetics and hair care products. Parabens have been linked to hormone disruption in our bodies. While the evidence linking parabens to negative health effects is still being studied, many people prefer to avoid products containing them.

Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) is a foaming agent commonly used in skincare products as well as, you guessed it, foam parties. If you've ever attended a foam party, great for the first 30 seconds then reality kicks in, you're probably familiar with the foam that SLS creates. However, this ingredient can be harsh on the skin, stripping it of its natural oils and causing dryness and irritation. If you've ever woken up the next day after a foam party with a red face or rash, SLS may have been the culprit. Found mainly in cleansers and shampoos, it's one to avoid.

Phthalates: These are a type of plasticiser that is used to make products more pliable. They are often found in moisturisers and other skincare products, as well as in plastics and vinyl. Phthalates have been linked to hormone disruption and reproductive problems, and they may also have negative effects on the liver, kidneys, and lungs.

Fragrance: Many moisturisers contain synthetic fragrances that are designed to make them smell good. However, these fragrances can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some people. They may also be causing headaches, dizziness, and respiratory problems. While natural fragrances are available, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with synthetic fragrances.

Oxybenzone: This is a chemical sunscreen that is often used in moisturisers and other skincare products. While it does protect the skin from the sun's harmful rays, it has been linked to hormone disruption and skin irritation. Some studies have also suggested that oxybenzone may be harmful to coral reefs, making it an ingredient that many people prefer to avoid.

Mineral oil: This is a by-product of petroleum that is often used as a moisturising agent in skincare products. While it does provide some benefits to the skin, such as locking in moisture, it can also clog pores and exacerbate acne. In addition, mineral oil has been identified as a possible carcinogen, which has led many people to seek out alternative moisturising ingredients.

It's important to note that the above-mentioned ingredients are not always harmful, and the risk of negative effects varies depending on individual skin, the amount of exposure, and other factors. However, if you're concerned about the ingredients in your moisturiser or other skincare products, it's always a good idea to check the ingredient list before purchasing.

A good rule of thumb is if you struggle to pronounce the word, it may be worth doing more research on what that ingredient actually is and what it does! You will be amazed at some of the ingredients added to our skin and hair products and think why would they add that? 

Well, if you think about it, our skin is like a sponge that soaks up whatever we put on it. And who wants to be a sponge for all kinds of weird chemicals and synthetic ingredients? I mean, do we really want to turn ourselves into walking chemistry experiments? No way! We'd rather stick to the good stuff - natural ingredients that we know and trust. After all, when it comes to our skin, we don't want any funny business. Just keep it simple, keep it natural, and keep on glowing!

In conclusion, while moisturisers are an essential part of many people's skincare routines, it's important to be aware of the potential risks associated with certain ingredients. Parabens, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, oxybenzone, and mineral oil are just a few of the ingredients that have been linked to negative health effects. By doing your research and choosing products that are free from these ingredients, you can help to protect your skin and overall health.