Is Your Acne Wash Toxic?

You should be aware that what you eat can also affect your skin. Holistic and Functional Nutrition will get you started on a path towards regaining your body’s health with a food-based detox and cleanse.

1- Polyethylene glycol (PEG): This petroleum by-product (like Propylene Glycol) is often used in cleansers due to the chemical’s effectiveness at dissolving oil and grease. This powerful oil-stripping agent, which is also used in oven cleaners, can strip the skin of all natural oils, instead of just removing the excess. Even more concerning, this compound is considered to be potentially carcinogenic, in part due to its contamination with the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane. Studies have shown that the contaminant increases incidences of skin, liver and lung tumors and carcinomas of the gallbladder.

2- Propylene Glycol (PG): Another petroleum by-product, the propylene glycol used in skincare products is the same active component found in antifreeze. PG breaks down protein and cellular structure; penetrating the skin very quickly. While this chemical is found in makeup, hair products, lotions and other various beauty products that are applied directly to the skin, the EPA requires workers who handle PG to wear protective gloves, clothing and goggles. Exposure to Propylene Glycol is connected to liver disease and kidney damage and it can potentially cause breast cancer.

3- Mineral Oil: Yet another petroleum ingredient, mineral oil is found in many skin care products, including acne prevention items, even though it has been found to cause blemishes. Mineral oil coats the skin, sitting on top of the surface, rather than being absorbed, blocking pores. Rather than moisturizing the skin, mineral oil can cause dryness.

4- FD&C Dyes: Many color pigments used in foods, drugs and skincare products are frequently made from coal tar, which can cause skin sensitivity and irritation. Some animal studies have shown most dyes to be carcinogenic. Many skin care products, including acne care cleansers, gels, masks and more contain these dyes.

5- Fragrance: Fragrances used in body and skincare products, like shampoo, deodorant, body washes and other products are generally composed of thousands of separate ingredients, most of which are synthetic and known to be carcinogenic. For example, phthalates are commonly found as a component in fragrances—a chemical known to disrupt the endocrine system, which can alter your hormones. Sensitivities to fragrances in cosmetics have been well-documented and symptoms include headaches, rashes, dizziness and skin irritation.

6- Benzoyl Peroxide: A common ingredient in acne products due to its drying properties, benzoyl peroxide has been thought to increase free radical action in the skin. Use of benzoyl peroxide can lead to rashes and peeling, as well as irritated, flaking skin, which causes premature aging.

7- Hydroquinone: Many of the skin lightening products are available on the market today contain dangerous ingredients that are known to cause cancer. Hydroquinone is no longer available in some parts of the world due its harmful effects on the skin from long-term use. If you are looking for a solution to your skin pigmentation, be sure that you’re using skin brightening products that do not contain hydroquinone.

Try opting for more more natural ways to cleanse your face like this recipe:

-3oz unscented liquid castile soap
-1 tsp. Argan oil
-10-15 drops essential oil (Tee tree or lavender are great choices)
-5oz distilled water

Place this in a foaming pump dispenser and use daily. Follow with your favorite moisturizer.

You may also try one of my favorite products by Dr. Jart+, the Dermaclear is one of the best face washes I have used and its all natural!


I also use many of their other products for redness, dry skin, and moisturizer! You can buy any of these products at Sephora. Receive a Free Dr. Jart Cicapair Tiger Grass Camo Drops Trial Size with Any $25 Purchase. Use Code DOUBLEDUTY




That's a deal you cannot pass up!

If you are looking for more natural remedies to clear acne, check that out Here