As you cross the age of 35 to 40, you’re probably spending more time in front of the mirror checking for signs of aging. If the fine lines and wrinkles are bothering you, chances are that you’ve been searching on the internet for the latest anti-aging creams and treatments. Given that the beauty industry is growing at a CAGR of 7.8%, and is expected to be valued at $191.7 billion by 2019, you’re likely to find an unbelievable array of options.
Before you head for the drugstore or supermarket to buy the latest advertised products, you may want to understand what they contain – and, the possible harmful effects of anti-aging creams.
Choosing Organic Anti-Aging Solutions is a Wiser Option
One of the first questions you’ll likely have when choosing a cream, lotion, or ointment that promises to give you ageless skin is – Will this actually work?
Know that most commercial products contain chemical or organic components. And, since they are not actual drugs that you consume, the FDA does not regulate the industry. While the market is flooded with a range of products that may or may not work, you should be more concerned about their undesirable side effects. Keep in mind that every individual skin is unique, and may react differently to the products.
Like the expert consultants at PRP Injection MD recommend, a wiser option is to choose anti-aging solutions that you’ re confident will work well on your skin, give you the desired results, and not cause side effects. Given a choice between natural and chemical creams, check the ingredients carefully, and choose safer options.
Most Anti-Aging Creams Contain Chemicals
Most anti-aging creams are designed to give you smooth, ageless skin. But, the chemicals they contain can have additional effects on your skin and body by seeping into your bloodstream. Here are some of the most commonly found additives and what they can do:
1. Compounds to Maintain the pH Levels
As the National Center for Biotechnology reports, your skin has a pH level that ranges from 4.0 to 7.0 which means that it is slightly acidic. To maintain the pH levels of the product so that it remains stable and matches your skin, manufacturers add chemicals like Diethanolamine (DEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA), and Triethanolamine (TEA). Should you continue to use the products containing these chemicals over an extended time, you risk developing cancer in the liver and kidneys.
2. Hydroxy Acids to Increase the Effectiveness of the Product
For the product to work on your skin, it needs to seep into the lower layers. To make the skin more permeable so that the anti-aging creams are better absorbed, manufacturers add hydroxy acids. An unfortunate side effect is that the acids also remove the top protective layer of the skin that prevents the impact of the harsh UV rays of the sun. Given that sunrays can accelerate aging by breaking down the collagen and elastin in your skin, overexposure can give you the exact opposite of the results you’re hoping to get. As this feature on AOL.com explains, not only do you raise the risk of getting sunburns, but you also boost your chances of getting malignant melanoma, a form of skin cancer.
3. Mineral Oils to Prevent Skin from Drying Out
Mineral oils are an essential ingredient of almost all skin care products including anti-aging creams. These products are derived from petroleum, and if refined properly, they create a porous layer on your skin. The primary purpose of mineral oils is to keep your skin hydrated and prevent the moisture from escaping. While the oils don’t enter your bloodstream or cause cancer, they can cause side effects like acne and pimples. That’s because they hold impurities close to the skin and prevent excess sebum from evaporating naturally. The breakouts are particularly accentuated in users who live in a warm, humid climate or conduct strenuous physical activities that make them sweat heavily.
4. Parabens to Increase the Shelf Life of the Products
Parabens like butylparaben, methylparaben, ethylparaben, and propylparaben are often added as vital ingredients in skin care products. These chemicals are added to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold that can potentially cause infections after using the creams. You should be cautious about using anti-aging creams that contain parabens because the skin can absorb the chemicals. Parabens have a mild estrogen-like effect on your body cells, and although studies have not proved it definitely, you may raise your risk of developing breast cancer by using the products for a long time. A safer option is to choose creams that clearly state on the label that they are paraben-free. Like this article on LiveStrong explains, you can also expect redness, rashes, and irritation as side effects.
5. Limonenes to Lend Fragrance
In addition to lending a citrus-like or pine tree fragrance to creams and ointments, limonenes are added to increase the ability of the product to seep into the skin. Limonenes are known to act as antioxidants and have a soothing effect. However, they can also oxidize on the surface, and cause sensitivity and irritation.
Avoid the Use of Chemicals to Repair Your Skin
In place of layering on anti-aging creams in an attempt to reverse the clock, you could opt for organic products that you can make at home. Use organic items like coconut oil and olive oil as a base along with ingredients like honey, milk cream, jojoba oil, almond paste, and egg whites. Use these items to create face packs and watch the years vanish as your skin takes on a youthful glow. Even if these items seep into your skin, they’re unlikely to cause ill effects.
Another option is PRP therapy that uses a serum created from your blood. This serum has a concentration of healing elements that your body creates. When massaged into the skin by way of microneedling, the compounds stimulate the growth of collagen and elastin in the lower layers to erase the signs of aging. If you’re looking for a rejuvenating option that has no side effects, you couldn’t go wrong with a product made with your blood.
To get youthful, beautiful skin, you don’t need to risk your health. Look for organic and natural options that don’t contain chemicals and get the results you want.
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