Synthetic additives found in soap and skincare products, such as parabens and microplastics can seep deep into the skin, resulting in irritation and other possible health issues. Additionally, they can damage the environment and our health by ending up in our water. Known skin conditions resulting from the use of skincare products with synthetic additives are contact dermatitis, eczema, and hives if or when used for prolonged periods of time.
The main reason SOAPSTAR opts for natural alternatives in skincare products is that some synthetic additives may also contain endocrine-disrupting compounds, which can interfere with hormone functioning and lead to an array of health issues.
Interference with hormone functioning can lead to various health issues, such as weight gain, infertility, diabetes, and growth and development issues in children. Endocrine-disrupting compounds found in synthetic additives can also disrupt the body's normal hormone levels, leading to an overproduction or underproduction of certain hormones. This can have a cascade effect. The cascade effect is when one thing changes and causes other things to change too. When synthetic additives interfere with hormone functioning, it can cause the body to produce either too much or too little of certain hormones.
It's important to note that certain natural ingredients can also cause skin irritation in some people, due to the presence of allergens, but they do not pose any long-term risks to health compared to some synthetic additives.
What are parabens?
Parabens are one of the most commonly used synthetic skincare ingredients known to interfere with hormone functioning. Parbens are added to products to inhibit the growth of microorganisms and keeping products free from bacteria. These preservatives, which are often found in soaps, lotions, shampoos, and other cosmetics, can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, leading to an imbalance in hormones. A variety of studies have linked parabens to breast cancer. Examples of the most commonly used paraben ingredients include Butylene glycol, Propylene glycol and Methylparaben.
Soap without plastic
Microplastics contained in sunscreen, cosmetics, soaps and lotions are another type of synthetic additive that can end up in our water sources and disrupt ecosystems. Microplastics are used in skincare products to provide exfoliation, improve texture and consistency, and bind ingredients together. These tiny fragments of plastic absorb harmful substances like pesticides and fertilizers then release them into water systems where they accumulate over time. Not only do these microplastics contaminate drinking water supplies but they also act like sponges for toxins which can be ingested by aquatic organisms that live in our rivers and oceans.
Free from parabens, Free from microplastics
Unfortunately, it is difficult to avoid synthetic additives entirely. However, opting for natural alternatives whenever possible can reduce your exposure to potentially harmful ingredients. Natural alternatives such as plant-based soaps, oils or waxes can provide a safe way to nourish the skin without introducing additional toxins into the environment. At SOAPSTAR we believe that making smart choices about what we use on our skin, can help protect ourselves from potential health issues while also protecting our planet's precious ecosystems. SOAPSTAR prefers to opt for natural alternatives and all products are free from parabens and free from microplastics.
To shop products without parabens and products without microplastics click here.