With this blog, I’ve been aiming to provide a well-rounded, holistic approach to senior health, and while going over the last couple of entries, I realized that I hadn’t done anything on senior skincare.
In my experience, skincare is a cherished art. For seniors, it involves accentuating and honoring the wisdom of a life well lived. We’re all about embracing the natural changes that come with age as opposed to swimming against the current. Your skin deserves a routine that’s both kind and effective, a routine free of ingredients that disrupt the delicate balance that it relies on.
Embrace your skin’s journey
Your skin tells the story of your life. Each line, crease reflects moments of laughter, worry, pain, strength, and love. When it comes to caring for this remarkable canvas, it’s essential to give attention to hydration, nourishment, and protection.
Aging skin is more sensitive and prone to dryness. Selecting the right skincare products becomes a critical part of our daily routine. And that critical part also involves understanding the ingredients within these skincare products, differentiating between the beneficial ones and the harmful ones that cause harm over time.
The hidden dangers in common skincare ingredients
Certain chemicals have raised concern amongst experts. As a pharmacist, I have encountered many inquiries about the potential risks associated with these ingredients. I have compiled a list of ten chemicals that you will want to keep an eye out for. My advice would be to steer clear of products containing these chemicals.
Parabens
Parabens are used as preservatives, but that’s not all they do. They’re criticized for their estrogen-mimicking properties. The presence of parabens such as methylparaben and propylparaben in skincare products interferes with hormonal balance over time. We don’t need those unexpected chemical influences.
Phthalates
Commonly found in emulsions and fragranced products, phthalates are known for their potential as endocrine disruptors. They interfere with natural hormones over time, proving toxic to the skin and the rest of the body. The tricky part is that they’re not usually listed on the labels of products, so you have to put on your Sherlock cap to determine their presence.
Look for ingredients like this on the label: diethyl phthalate (DEP), di-n-butyl phthalate, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), and butylbenzyl phthalate (BBzP). Some products use it in an even sneakier capacity, opting to not name names but only use the word “fragrance” or “flavor” as an ingredient.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
This surfactant is included in many cleansers and shampoos to create lather. It is an aggressive cleansing agent that leaves the skin feeling tight and stripped of moisture. A mild cleanser with naturally derived ingredients can help maintain the skin’s hydration and integrity.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Similar to SLES, SLS is valued for its ability to produce rich foam. It’s also excessively drying, especially for mature skin that is already battling dryness. Choosing a cleanser that employs alternative, gentler agents can preserve your skin’s natural moisture.
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasing Agents
There are certain preservatives like DMDM hydantoin and imidazolidinyl urea that release formaldehyde, a known irritant. Exposure to these agents, even in small quantities, leads to sensitivities that accumulate with repeated use. Prioritize products with natural preservation methods to protect your skin’s comfort.
Synthetic Fragrances
The allure of a pleasant scent surely elevates a skincare product, but let me de-elevate it for you in just a second—many of these synthetic fragrances trigger allergic reactions or sensitivities. You want to opt for fragrance-free or naturally scented products that provide a more reassuring experience for skin that deserves gentle care.
Oxybenzone
Mostly found in sunscreens, this chemical does offer sun protection but with a side of hormonal effects. Mineral-based alternatives offer a natural line of defense that supports the skin’s balance without disrupting your hormones.
Triclosan
The antibacterial agent has been dubious in terms of its effects on hormonal health. In its stead, use products that have natural antibacterial properties such as tea tree oil. They’re equally effective without compromising your skin’s well-being.
Alcohol Denat.
In higher concentrations, denatured alcohol can be overly drying, leading to irritation in mature skin.
Polyethene Glycols (PEGs)
While they do create a smooth texture in creams and lotions, PEGs can be contaminated with impurities that are not friendly to sensitive skin.
Natural Alternatives for Healthier, Happier Skin
Our skins deserve the gentle touch of nature as opposed to the harsh treatment from chemicals. Consider products with these natural ingredients to offer your skin the nourishment, hydration, and protection it needs without compromise.
- Aloe Vera is a timeless healer. Its soothing properties calm irritation, hydrate deeply and promote skin regeneration.
- Jojoba Oil closely mimics the skin’s natural sebum, making it an excellent moisturizer that doesn’t clog pores or feel heavy.
- Shea Butter is a rich emollient packed with vitamins A and E, which help combat dryness and promote skin elasticity.
- Green Tea Extract is a powerful antioxidant that protects against environmental stressors and supports skin health with its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Rosehip Oil is revered for its anti-aging benefits, rich in essential fatty acids and vitamin C, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and improve skin tone.
- Coconut Oil offers deep hydration and antibacterial benefits, making it ideal for dry, sensitive skin.
- Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide are mineral-based sunscreen alternatives that provide broad-spectrum protection without the harmful effects of chemical sunscreens.
Choosing products with these natural ingredients will ensure your skincare routine is effective and kind to your skin.
Your Skin Deserves the Best
Embrace your skin’s journey with care that you can trust.
Thanks for the exhaustive guide to skin care provided here. Formaldehyde is especially troubling. Years ago, my husband and I started to make our own beer because of the fact that the fermentation process is often stopped with formaldehyde. It’s strange how certain things you never forget and that’s one thing I will never forget. Craft beers are free of most chemicals. But I digress.
I do not drink alcohol anymore, but I do use skin care products because of going on YouTube every day to create videos. Thank you for the information.
Hi Alison – I am guilty of not using the skin care products other than regular soap and sunscreen when I’m out in the sun. But that, in itself, is a product and I am going to start checking ingredients based on your comprehensive guide. Thank you very much for this valuable resource. You saved me a lot of time with your explanations and to be honest, I would not have even considered looking at the ingredients had it not been for your blog post. Thank you!
Hi Alison,
This is such a helpful guide! Taking care of our skin as we age is so important, I’m learning that now that I’ve turned 50. I love how you highlight both the harmful ingredients to avoid and the natural alternatives to use instead. There are so many options out there! It’s great to know that we don’t have to rely on harsh chemicals to keep our skin healthy. Thanks for sharing these tips!
Meredith