Give Your Skin A Break

by Respekt Hero February 28, 2020

Are Natural Products Superior?

Natural, organic, and vegan cosmetics are becoming more and more popular, and with good reason– harsh chemicals can cause skin sensitivity, dermatitis, hormonal imbalances, and some are even carcinogenic.

Reasons To Use Natural Products

Clean, healthy, nourishing, vegan, and natural products are not only better for your own health, they are less harmful to animals and of course, the environment. Even using acids or natural physical exfoliants instead of micro-beads is a step forward.

More Harm Than Good

1. Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
SLS is an ubiquitous ingredient. It is an effective but also very harsh detergent that can dry out your skin or even cause an allergic reaction. It also dries out your hair and strips it of its natural protective oils.

Commonly Found In: Shampoo, soap, other cleansing products

2. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives that can cause allergic revelations and have been linked to hormonal imbalances. They are not dangerous in small quantities, but I would still choose a healthier alternative when possible.

Commonly Found In: Almost everything, from soaps to moisturizers and shampoos

3. Phthalates
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors that can affect your metabolism, hormones and eventually even your fertility. It has been linked to ADHD, obesity, neurological issues, and more. It is also a possible carcinogen.

Commonly Found In: Moisturizer, perfume, nail polish

4. Fragrance
Artificial fragrance can cause severe irritation and a lot of them contain the aforementioned phthalates. It can cause hormonal issues, fertility issues and allergies. Another often overlooked fact is that fragrances are not only an essential component of perfumes, the vast majority of cosmetic products contain fragrance.
This ingredient can be especially problematic because cosmetic companies are not required to disclose which particular fragrance they have used. Respekt products and we as a company are always transparent. We pride ourselves on the fact that we only use natural and high quality fragrances.

Commonly Found In: Everything scented

5. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a preservative that prevents bacterial growth, and it definitely has its place in certain fields, but you should avoid it when it comes to skincare and makeup. It has been linked to allergic reactions, weakened immune system, and certain cancers.

Commonly Found In: Eyelash glue, lotion, hair gel

6. Lead
Lead has a long history of use in cosmetics. It’s also one of the worst offenders on this list. Lead can eventually cause serious damage to most organs, including your brain. Luckily it’s getting used less and less, but if you find it on the ingredient list of a cosmetic product, I suggest you steer clear of it.

Commonly Found In: These days mainly in lipsticks

7. Dimethicone
This silicone is not necessarily as dangerous as the other ingredients on this list, but it can still cause clogged pores and acne. Silicones also have a very distinct texture that can be bothersome to some.

Commonly Found In: Conditioner, some moisturizers

More Good Than Harm

Are there chemicals that are actually beneficial? Yes, there absolutely are. Here are top 7 chemicals that will actually benefit you.

1. Salicylic acid
Salicylic acid is a fairly gentle but incredibly effective acid. It can significantly reduce acne, blackheads, and even dandruff. If you are overproducing sebum this one is a great choice.

2. Hyaluronic acid
Hyaluronic acid is actually produced by your body. Products containing it can heal atopic dermatitis and hydrate your dry skin, making it more youthful and plump.

3. Peptides
Peptides make your skin more taut and smooth. It’s one of the ingredients that can actually help you lessen the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

4. Lauric Acid
Lauric acid is naturally found in coconut oil and has incredible anti-bacterial and moisturizing properties. Great for acne prone or inflamed skin.

5. Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)
Alpha Hydroxy Acids are great for anyone struggling with hyper-pigmentation, fine lines, and enlarged pores. One of the best anti-aging ingredients.

6. Sun Screen
There are two types of sun screens, those with a chemical filter, and those with a physical, mineral filter. I believe that the benefits of using sunscreen outweigh any potential negative side effects (such as clogged pores). Even if you do find that one type doesn't suit you, there are different formulations, and I am absolutely certain
anyone can find the right one for them.

7. Retinol
Retinol is another acid that can be incredibly beneficial when used as a part of your skincare routine. It encourages cell renewal, collagen production, and makes your skin look younger and healthier.

Knowing Yourself Is The Key

Your skin changes with you. It gets drier as you age and requires different ingredients and products. Knowing your needs is the first step to having the healthiest skin possible.

Happy And Healthy Choice For You

All our products are ethically sourced with clean, safe, natural, and organic ingredients.
We use natural fragrances, botanical preservatives, and are certified vegan and cruelty-free.
We also know that choosing the right products can be a daunting task, so here are a few that are guaranteed to make your skin happy and healthy.