It’s no secret that we are constantly bombarded with marketing and advertising. Nowadays, it appears that even thinking about skincare will result in a barrage of advertisements and sponsored posts on social media. But how reliable are some of the marketing buzzwords used to describe the effects of skincare products?

Though the unrealistic aims of skincare have mostly remained consistent over time (e.g., look young and glowing; be wrinkle- and blemish-free), the vocabulary surrounding these goals has evolved, as have consumer ethics and expectations.

In the 1950s, the word “sustainable” might not have piqued the interest of purchasers, but in an age where our planet’s future is dependent on humanity’s ability to change its environmental policies, phrases like “sustainable” are heavyweights in all industries, including skincare.

But labels aren’t everything, and language, like appearances, may deceive.

Here are some examples of overused terms.

“Organic” and “All Natural”

The issue with this term is that it is used as a synonym for “good stuff,” whereas in reality, there are many natural ingredients that are harmful to your health (poison ivy and cyanide are both natural!). Just because something comes from nature does not imply that it is good, and just because something comes from a laboratory does not imply that it is evil.

Similarly, the usage of ‘organic’ ingredients has not been proved to provide a competitive advantage over their conventional counterparts. Organic products have very little scientific evidence to demonstrate any health benefits.

“Vegan”

‘Vegan’ is a big trend these days, especially in beauty products. Companies claim that their products are ‘vegan,’ so we unconsciously link it with something more natural, plant-based, and environmentally beneficial; however, this is rarely the case, because vegan just implies that the product does not contain any animal-derived ingredients. These items are not always natural, safer for you, or better for the environment. They are even tested on animals in some circumstances.

“Plant-Based”

This word has the potential to be completely misleading. A plant-based product can be further changed by a synthetic chemical, compound, or polymer/resin. The product may contain plant-based components but may also contain synthetic preservatives. It could also contain an allergen that causes breathing problems, skin sensitivity, and so forth. When we see the term “plant-based” on a label, we try to relate it to the phrase “sustainable” and use it as a measure of naturalness – which it is not – and safety – which it is not.

“Sustainable”

From the standpoint of ‘greenwashing,’ anyone can claim that a product is sustainable, especially if one or more of the ingredients are obtained or made in a sustainable manner (this includes the packaging). And, while each step toward a more sustainable future is vital, if you want a totally sustainable product, you’ll have to go a little deeper.

If you’re worried, search for third-party certifications that back up the claim you’re reading.

 

Why buzzwords like vegan, plant-based, and natural/organic should still make you suspicious

We are duped by terms like “organic,” “natural,” “gluten-free,” “vegan,” “healthy,” and “raw.”

The problematic issue about these terms is that they can occasionally be accurate — the buzzword isn’t a falsehood or a deception tactic. The food is *really* nutritious, although that isn’t always the case.

We can’t even start talking about “plant-based” diets without addressing the elephant in the room: veganism.

True, the word “plant-based” has now become another term for “veganism,” albeit one that is more acceptable to a large portion of the populace. Many individuals still associate veganism with a demanding eating philosophy that needs rigorous devotion and tolerates little criticism. “Plant-based” appears to be more broad.

The trouble is that, like so many other phrases before it, plant-based has become completely meaningless.

When we look at what it was supposed to mean: a mixed diet with a high proportion of plant foods, the phrase “plant-based” was useful. That would make a diet consisting of 35% meat (paleo) a plant-based diet, but not a vegan one.

By equating “plant-based” with “vegan,” the former phrase becomes virtually meaningless.

Greenwashing is a word used in the health food sector. It’s when you get to call a bad product “healthy” by utilizing health-related phrases that everyone knows.

The use of the phrase “made with whole grains” on a box of sugared chocolate cereal is a prime example of greenwashing. Another is “plant-based.”

Simply because a product was “manufactured” with whole grains does not imply that any whole grains remain in the finished product. And just because a product is plant-based, whether it’s a cleaning solution, eye ointment, or food, doesn’t imply it’s any good. After all, you can synthesize some really awful plant-based compounds, especially if you start with deadly mushrooms.

 

Reading Labels: Skincare Ingredients to Avoid and How to Spot Them

Here are some steps to take to spot out products that use buzzwords.

• Check for potentially dangerous components.
• Do your homework. Don’t be scared to look up any ingredients you’re unfamiliar with.
• Choose natural or naturally sourced items.
• Understand your skin type and issues.

When it comes to skincare and other personal care products, we at AWA Marketplace can safely state that the more natural the components, the happier your skin.

However, with so much growth and knowledge around the clean/green/natural beauty market, it can be difficult for any consumer to grasp whether components are truly “clean,” especially because the term itself is not regulated.

We’re taking the uncertainty out of reading ingredients by sharing some of the top ingredients to avoid in skincare and how to identify them.

 

Why you should always read the labels

If you don’t read the ingredient list on your skin care products, there’s a problem. Did you know that your skin is the greatest organ in your body? It also serves as your first line of protection against infections and illnesses.

We’ve all heard how vital it is to have a daily skin care routine. Cleaning, moisturizing, and protecting your skin from UV damage are all important steps in maintaining its health.

However, keep in mind that not all skincare products are equal. The chemicals in the product you select can have a significant impact on its effectiveness. In some situations, cosmetics containing artificial substances and chemicals can really be harmful to your skin.

Let’s look at why the ingredients in your skincare products matter so much.

You’ve most likely heard the adage “you are what you eat.” This means that what you put into your body has a big impact on its overall health.

The same may be said for what you put on your body. When you apply something to your skin, it is absorbed by your body. So, when you look at a skin care product’s ingredient list, ask yourself, “Do I want this in my body?”

Also, remember that skin care products are significantly less regulated than food. As a result, it is especially crucial for you to pay attention to what is in these items.

According to one recent study, the average lady applies 168 chemicals to her skin per day. That’s 168 substances entering your body, the majority of which you can’t even pronounce.

These compounds introduce hazardous pollutants into your body, increasing its total toxicity. This can have a number of harmful consequences for your health.

 

Ingredients to look out for in your products

These Ingredients are also not supported on ÀWA Marketplace

• Aluminum
• Diethanolamine (DEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA), and Triethanolamine (TEA)
• DMDM Hydantoin & Urea (Imidazolindinyl & Diazolidinyl urea)
• Mineral Oil
• Parabens (Methyl, Butyl, Ethyl, Propyl)
• Polyethylene glycol (PEG)
• Phthalates
• Propylene Glycol (PG) & Butylene Glycol
• Siloxanes
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfates (SIS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) & Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
• Synthetic Fragrances (Parfum)
• Triclosan & Triclocarban
• Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde releasers
• Bronopol & quaternium-15
• Coal Tar
• Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid (EDTA)
• BHA & BHT
• Hydroquinone
• Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
• Toluene
• Lead
• Otinoxate
• Octinoxate
• Homosalate
• Talc
• Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) (Teflon)
• PFAs & PFCs
• Oxybenzonol
• Oxybenzone
• OM Cinnamate
• Benzalkonium Chloride
• Resorcinol
• Carbon Black
• Silicones
• Petroleum jelly
• PVP/VA copolymer
• Synthetic colors and dyes
• Diethanolamine
• Dimethicone
• Isopropyl Alcohol
  Retinyl palmitate
• Selenium sulfide
• Titanium Dioxide

 

Clean Beauty

A clean beauty product is one that does not contain potentially dangerous compounds found in skin care products, such as parabens, phthalates, PEG derivatives, and artificial colors and perfumes. Clean beauty products are often made with natural materials. The best part about clean beauty is that it prioritizes not just appearance but also skin health.

It’s time to refresh your skin care routine with products made with natural components. If you’re looking for inspiration, Awa Marketplace Products are free of chemicals and dubious components that are typically found in skin care products. Remember that skin care products are important because your health is the most important.

When you use the correct skincare products, you might see a significant improvement in your the health and radiance of your skin. However, in order to achieve the best results, you must first identify what condition your skin is experiencing and then select the suitable products that can treat these concerns while also nourishing your skin. The problem you’re having could be lessened or even eradicated entirely depending on the chemicals in your skincare products. This is why reading labels is critical for getting the most out of your skincare products.