How skin care products can permeate the skin and affect our health

How Skincare Products Work on Your Skin and Impact Your Health

In recent years, there’s been a growing movement towards clean, non-toxic skincare. But many people still ask: "Does it really matter what we put on our skin? After all, it’s not like we’re consuming it".

From our own experiences and feedback from customers, we’ve noticed that using non-toxic products just feels better. But we wanted to dig deeper. Just like how a patch applied to your skin can deliver medicine into your body—whether it’s to help someone quit smoking or provide hormone therapy—the skincare products we use can have a similar effect.

In this blog, we’re sharing the research we’ve uncovered on how the ingredients in skincare products can impact your health. We hope you find it insightful!

1. How the Skin Absorbs Ingredients

Our skin is made up of multiple layers, with the outermost layer, the stratum corneum, acting as the primary barrier. Skincare products are designed to penetrate this layer in order to deliver benefits such as hydration, nourishment, and protection. Some products only work on the surface, but others are formulated to reach deeper into the skin layers, targeting issues like wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, or acne.

Unfortunately, harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances can also be absorbed through the skin. Research from Non-Toxic Revolution highlights how everyday products can expose us to toxic chemicals, leading to potential health risks. Learn more here.

Additionally, a study from the University of Birmingham confirms that "forever chemicals" (PFAS) are absorbed through human skin. Read the full study here.

2. The Health Impact of Common Skincare Ingredients

Certain chemicals in skincare can pose health risks, especially with long-term use:

• Parabens: Preservatives used to extend shelf life, parabens can disrupt hormones and mimic estrogen. A study in the Journal of Applied Toxicology links parabens to breast cancer.
• Phthalates: Found in synthetic fragrances, phthalates have been linked to reproductive issues and endocrine disruption. Report on phthalates.
• Triclosan: Banned by the FDA in 2016, it was used in antibacterial products and may cause hormonal disruption. FDA report on triclosan.

On the other hand, using natural, non-toxic ingredients allows your skin to benefit from nourishing compounds without introducing harmful chemicals into your system. Ingredients like organic oils, plant extracts, and vitamins can support skin health and overall wellness.

3. Why Non-Toxic, Clean Skincare Matters

The growing clean beauty movement emphasizes the importance of choosing products that are not only effective but also safe for your body and the environment. At Sally B’s Skin Yummies, we are committed to using organic, non-toxic, and natural ingredients that work in harmony with your skin rather than against it. By opting for clean skincare, you reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals while still enjoying products that help you achieve glowing, healthy skin.

• Organic Oils: Ingredients like argan oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil offer hydration and nourishment without the use of synthetic additives.
• Plant-Based Extracts: Extracts from aloe vera, chamomile, and calendula provide soothing and anti-inflammatory benefits, ideal for sensitive or reactive skin.
• Essential Vitamins: Antioxidant-rich vitamins like Vitamin C and Vitamin E help protect your skin from environmental damage and support natural repair processes.

4. How to Make Healthier Skincare Choices

To protect both your skin and your health, consider the following tips when choosing skincare products:

• Read Labels: Look for products that clearly list their ingredients, and avoid those containing parabens, phthalates, sulfates, or synthetic fragrances.
• Choose Organic: Whenever possible, opt for products that use certified organic ingredients, which are free from harmful pesticides and chemicals. Learn more about the benefits of organic ingredients from this study on organic product safety.
• Support Clean Beauty Brands: Brands like Sally B’s Skin Yummies are dedicated to providing safe, non-toxic skincare options that prioritize both your health and the environment.

5. The Bottom Line

Your skin is a gateway to your overall health, and what you put on it matters. Harmful chemicals in conventional skincare products can seep into your body, potentially leading to long-term health issues. By choosing non-toxic, clean beauty products, you can nourish your skin safely and effectively. At Sally B’s Skin Yummies, we believe that skincare should be both luxurious and health-conscious, so you can feel good about what you’re putting on your skin.

Ready to make the switch? Explore our organic, non-toxic skincare collection today..