Useful Components

Acne skin

Retinol - has the effect of reducing the secretion of sebum, reduces inflammation in the skin and supports the process of renewal of the epidermis.

Salicylic acid - has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and keratolytic properties. Regulates sebum secretion.

Activated charcoal - has a cleansing and detoxifying effect.

Aloe - soothes irritations, accelerates skin regeneration and reduces skin wounds caused by acne.

Pigmentation

Azelaic acid - blocks tyrosinase - the enzyme responsible for the formation of age spots. It is very effective in removing acne marks.

Vitamin C - has an exfoliating effect, due to which it stimulates the growth of the epidermis, and also reduces the thickness of the stratum corneum of the skin. Inhibits the formation of melanin in the skin, making the complexion brighter. Influences the synthesis of collagen in the skin.

Alpha Arbutin - brightens the skin. Works especially well for lightening freckles.

Wrinkles

Retinol - has the effect of accelerating skin regeneration and is responsible for the formation of collagen fibers and elastin in cells. Improves tension and elasticity of the skin.

Peptides - improve the appearance of the skin by increasing the synthesis of collagen by fibroblasts. In addition, they have a relaxing effect on the skin, making mimic wrinkles less noticeable.

INCI cosmetics ingredients

More and more consumers are becoming aware of which ingredients should be in cosmetics and which should be avoided. We select products that meet our needs based on what cosmetics contain. The INCI database is the ideal tool for checking the composition of cosmetics. This abbreviation stands for International Nomenclature for Cosmetic Ingredients. This is an international database of cosmetic ingredients that includes permitted and prohibited ingredients. This database is valid in the European Union, USA, China and Japan. This means that each cosmetic product on the packaging or label attached to the product must have a described composition. Chemical compounds in the database are written in English, and plant materials are written in Latin.

Ingredients on cosmetics labels are written in a fixed order - those listed at the beginning are present in cosmetics in the largest amount, and those at the end are present in the smallest. Ingredients that are present in cosmetics in quantities below 1% are listed at the very end.

What are the dangerous ingredients in cosmetics i.e. which should be avoided?

Many ingredients can be widely used in the manufacture of cosmetics, although recent research and experience with their use indicates that they can have negative effects on the skin. First of all, the following people should pay attention to such substances:

with problematic skin (sensitive or irritated),

immunocompromised,

suffering from autoimmune diseases,

parents of infants and young children.

These groups of people should choose cosmetics with the shortest possible composition, which does not contain potentially allergenic or irritating substances.

When choosing a suitable cosmetic product, you should pay attention to the fact that it does not contain:

Mineral oils and paraffin are some of the cheapest ingredients in cosmetics, so they can be found in many products. Paraffin is a carrier and solvent of active substances. It does not show any care properties. On the skin, it creates a layer that prevents the evaporation of water from the cells. It can disrupt the physiological processes in the skin. In addition, it prevents the penetration of other ingredients from cosmetics and can clog skin pores.

Parabens are preservatives added to cosmetics to protect the product from the development of fungi and mold. They can accumulate in the skin and have an allergenic effect (eczema and urticaria may occur when used). May have estrogenic and carcinogenic effects.

Glycols - PEG (polyethylene glycol) is used as a solvent, emulsifier and detergent in body care cosmetics. PPG (polypropylene glycol) is used to create emulsions. Prevents cell water loss. It is used in toothpastes, mouthwashes, and deodorants. Both substances can enter the bloodstream and have a toxic effect on the cells of the liver, kidneys and bone marrow. They can irritate sensitive skin, causing inflammation and itching.

Silicones are substances that give hair and skin smoothness. They are also added to moisturizers, fluids, foundations, and hair care products. With frequent use, they can clog skin pores, worsening acne, blackheads, and blemishes.

Propylene glycol is a humectant that promotes the penetration of active substances into the skin. It can accumulate in the body and cause irritation.

Phthalates - can accumulate in the body, especially in adipose tissue. They cause hormonal disturbances and may be a factor in the development of breast cancer. Phthalates are especially dangerous for pregnant and lactating women - they can lead to fetal malformations and disrupt the development of the child. Phthalates are prohibited in cosmetics intended for children.

SLS, SLES are detergents and degreasers. They can cause irritation and dryness of the skin, as well as irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes. Once accumulated in the body, they can damage the nervous and immune systems. Applied to the hair, they can increase the split and brittleness.

Fragrances, artificial dyes - are added to cosmetics to increase its attractiveness among consumers. They can accumulate in the body and cause allergic reactions.

Formaldehyde is added to cosmetics as a preservative and to nail polishes as a hardener. This substance is considered a strong allergen - it can cause skin irritation, erythema, eczema. Formaldehyde is also a potential carcinogen.