Some of the most frequently used chemicals in beauty products are:

• Parabens (methyl-, propyl-, butyl-, ethyl-) are synthetic compounds found in most skin and hair products and are used as preservatives. They are popular because they are low in cost and although they are considered safe to use, parabens can cause skin irritations in individuals with some allergies.
• Sodium laureth sulphate (SLS) is found in many shampoos, as well as many soaps and toothpastes. SLS has a foaming quality that when rinsed off, will have cleansed the area but removed moisture from that area of skin. SLS is a known irritant for individuals with skin sensitivities and this drying of the skin can cause flare-ups.
• Fragrances are rarely made from flowers these days, but from an array of chemicals which are derived from petroleum. Some of these chemicals can cause skin, eye, nose and throat irritations, dizziness, pigmentation of the skin, as well as induce an asthmatic reaction.
• Ethanolamines (TEA/ DEA/ MEA) are some of the most widely used chemicals in cosmetic products that are used to adjust pH levels in cleansers, soaps, shampoos and conditioners and moisturizing creams. These chemicals can be absorbed by the skin and are thought to possibly be carcinogenic.
• Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) is used in cosmetic products to preserve fats and oils. Although it may combat oxidative stress, it may also have carcinogenic properties. Some individuals may also have problems metabolising BHA so it can create some health problems for them.
• Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) is used as an antioxidant food additive, and in cosmetic products. BHT has been banned in several countries around the world due to its toxicity and possible carcinogenic properties. It is also absorbed through the skin so it can cause certain skin conditions and allergic responses.
  Some products that you do want to see in your beauty products include;
• Aloe Vera – extracted from the aloe vera plant, excellent for skin conditions such as burns, cuts and eczema, as well as with reducing inflammation and improving wound healing.
• Chamomile – a calming, relaxing herb good for sensitive skin
• Cucumber – cooling and calming effect on the skin
• Horsetail – used for skin conditions such as acne and eczema
• Lavender – helps with skin conditions such as acne, and skin burns and inflammation
• Lemongrass – calming effect and good for mild skin conditions
• Oatmeal – skin soother, excellent for itchy skin
• Peppermint – soothes and relaxes muscles, anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory
• Rosehip – helps restore the skin’s pH balance
• Rosewater – a natural fragrance

At healthyU we have hand-picked a variety of natural and organic beauty products that will make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated! We also have our own range of Uclinic aromatherapy beauty products which have been concocted by our resident aromatherapist. They include face mists, aromatherapy body oil blends, essential oils, and an aromatherapy skin care range including the stunning Save Face cream.