What's In Your Skincare, and Why Should You Care?

When it comes to skincare, what you put on your skin is just as important as what you put in your body. The skin is the largest organ in the body, absorbing everything applied to it. Every day, our skin comes into contact with pollutants, toxins, and other harmful substances. Unfortunately, many skincare products contain ingredients that can actually damage the skin, causing irritation, inflammation, and even premature aging. That's why paying attention to the ingredients in your skincare products is so important. At SaGrah Beauty, we encourage you to read what’s in our products, as we personally research each and every ingredient to make sure you are getting only the highest quality product that actually heals your skin from within.

 Take a look at these five ingredients that should NEVER be in your skincare and our five favorite SaGrah Beauty ingredients.

 Five products that should NEVER be in your skincare:

 1) Synthetic fragrances

 When it comes to skincare, there are lots of different ingredients that can be used to create a particular scent. However, many of these synthetic fragrances can actually be harmful to the skin. This is because they often contain chemicals that can cause irritation, dryness, and even skin allergies. These synthetic fragrances can also be disruptive to your body's natural hormone balance. This is not to say all fragranced products are bad, but try to choose products with natural fragrances, NOT synthetic ones.

2) Silicones

 Silicones are a group of ingredients commonly used in skincare products. They are known for their ability to smooth and soften the skin, and they are often used in anti-aging products. However, silicones can actually be incredibly harmful to your skin. When used in skincare products, they can create a barrier on the surface of the skin that prevents the natural exchange of oxygen and moisture. This can lead to dryness, irritation, and inflammation. Silicones can also clog pores and trap dirt and bacteria, which can lead to breakouts.

 3) Formaldehyde

 When it comes to skincare, we all want products that are effective and safe. But sometimes, the ingredients in our skincare can be more harmful than we realize. Formaldehyde, for example, is a common skincare ingredient that has been linked to cancer and other serious health concerns. So why is formaldehyde so harmful? Formaldehyde is a skin irritant, meaning it can cause redness, swelling, and itchiness. It has also been linked to several serious health risks like cancer and difficulty breathing if it’s used in larger amounts. Because of its potential health risks, it's important to avoid products that contain formaldehyde.

 4) Parabens

 Parabens are a type of preservative that can be effective in preventing the growth of mold and bacteria, but they have come under fire in recent years for their potential health risks. Parabens are absorbed through the skin and can build up in the body over time, and can even cause a hormonal imbalance.

 5) Phthalates

 Phthalates are a type of synthetic chemical that is commonly used in skincare products. Although they are safe in small amounts, phthalates can be harmful if used in excessive amounts or if they are absorbed through the skin. Phthalates can disrupt hormones, and they have been linked to developmental problems, reproductive issues, and cancer. For these reasons, it is important to avoid skincare products that contain phthalates.

Our Five Favorite SaGrah Beauty Ingredients

 1) Hyaluronic Acid

 Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance that is found in the body, and it works to keep the skin hydrated and plump. It can hold 1000x its weight in water, making it an excellent ingredient for dry skin. Hyaluronic acid helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by filling in the spaces between collagen and elastin fibers and it also has antioxidant properties that help to protect the skin from environmental damage. Because our bodies naturally produce hyaluronic acid, you can feel comfortable about putting it on your skin!

 2) Jojoba Seed Oil

 Jojoba seed oil is a natural oil that closely resembles the sebum produced by our own skin. This makes it an excellent choice for people with oily or acne-prone skin, as it can help to regulate sebum production and prevent breakouts. Jojoba seed oil is also rich in Vitamin E, which is known for its antioxidant properties and ability to help protect the skin from environmental damage. Jojoba seed oil is non-comedogenic, meaning it won't clog your pores or cause breakouts.

 3) Sea Kelp

 Rich in vitamins and minerals, sea kelp can help to improve skin tone and texture, and it also has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. Sea kelp contains laminaria digitata, a substance that has been shown to promote wound healing, so it’s great for current breakouts and healing acne scars and dark marks. Sea kelp is also gentle enough to be used on all skin types, including those of us with sensitive skin. By providing essential nutrients and protecting your skin from environmental damage, sea kelp can help to keep your skin looking its best.

4) Aloe

 Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is often used in skincare products. The clear gel that is found inside the leaves of the plant contains a number of beneficial ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. When applied to your skin, aloe vera gel can help to soothe irritation, reduce inflammation, and speed up the healing process. Aloe vera gel is a natural humectant, meaning that it helps to keep the skin hydrated by drawing moisture from the air, so aloe can be an effective skincare ingredient for people of all skin types. The gel from the leaves contains 97% water, making it an excellent source of hydration for the skin.

5) Vitamin E

 Vitamin E is an antioxidant, which means it helps to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, like UV rays and pollutants. Vitamin E helps to counteract the effects of free radicals, keeping your skin looking young and healthy. Vitamin E is also known to be beneficial for fading scars and restoring moisture to the skin. Because Vitamin E is a great source of hydration, it’s a great addition to anyone’s skincare routine, as we can all benefit from a little extra moisture! By including vitamin E in your skincare routine, you can help to keep your skin looking its best.

At SaGrah Beauty, keeping your skin looking and FEELING good from the inside out is our main priority, and while we pride ourselves on delivering you only the best skincare has to offer, we know there are lots of brands out there that still contain ingredients that can be incredibly harmful to you and your skin. We hope this list helps you make conscious, healthy decisions about what you’re putting on your skin!