Shower gels are an essential and must have product for millions and billions of people all around the globe. They promise freshness and hydration to your skin but it is important to remember that not all of them are created equally. Many commercial shower gels contain harsh chemicals that can do more harm than good especially with regular use.
In this blog let us explore the most common harmful chemicals found in shower gels and the reasons to avoid them along with why to choose safer alternatives like natural shower gels for healthy skin.
Sodium Lauryl and Laureth Sulphate
These are the most common chemicals which are used to create lather in soaps and shower gels. While they make products foam they can also strip the skin filled with natural oils which can lead to irritation or dryness.
Long term use can make your skin barrier weak which can cause breakouts or inflammation.
Parabens
Parabens are preservatives used to discourage microbial growth on cosmetics. Parabens, however, have been found according to studies as the culprit responsible for disrupting hormones because parabens imitate estrogen within the body.
The interference with hormones has created worries that parabens are likely to have something to do with breast cancer so that the majority of brands say they are "paraben-free."
Phthalates
Used to extend the life of fragrances' vapours, phthalates are not always included on labels since they are used in secret "fragrance" recipes. Sadly, they are associated with endocrine disruption and reproductive problems.
Low-intensity exposures with heavy use can have synergistic activity, particularly in children and pregnant women. Consider using natural shower gels like the California Body Wash which is free from any artificial and added chemicals and the safest for sensitive skin.
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents
They also have preservatives which emit minute quantities of formaldehyde, a proven human carcinogen. Formaldehyde releasing substances such as DMDM Hydantoin and diazolidinyl urea emit the gas into the product over time.
Long-term exposure causes skin irritation, allergy, and respiratory illness.
Artificial Perfumes and Dyes
While these add-ins will scent or colour your shower gel and make it attractive, they are titanically irritating to most skins, particularly sensitive skin. Fragrances are typically mixtures of unidentified chemicals that will trigger allergies, migraines, and asthma attacks.
Dye is also produced synthetically by petroleum derivatives and has been shown to cause rashes on the skin and is unnecessary in skincare in general.
Triclosan
Triclosan was a highly used antibacterial active ingredient in personal care products a few years back. Even though it is great to have antibacterial action in your shower gel, Triclosan has been identified as a hormone disruptor and as the culprit behind bacterial resistance.
Its use has been banned by the FDA in some products but there are still some imported or older products containing it.
Alcohols (Some Types)
Not all alcohols are bad, but some, like isopropyl alcohol or denatured alcohol, are drying and irritating beyond imagination.
They strip away natural oils and lead to disruption of the skin barrier function so that the skin is more vulnerable to environmental abuse and bacteria.
BHA and BHT
These man made antioxidants are employed to extend shelf life but are potentially toxic to the kidneys and liver.
They can cause allergic effects and have been reported to be possible human carcinogens by health authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What ingredients should I avoid in shower gel?
Avoid SLS, SLES, parabens, phthalates, fragrances, and preservatives that release formaldehyde.
Q2. Which chemical should not be in bathing soap?
Body wash should not contain triclosan because it has been connected to hormone disturbance and bacterial resistance.
Q3. What are the hazards of shower gel?
Dermatologically abusive shower gels can have the ability to induce skin irritation and even chronic health risks such as cancer.
Why Natural Matters
Skin is the largest organ in the body and has the capacity to absorb much of what is applied upon it. Using chemical shower gels daily can accumulate toxins in the body after some time. Natural products ease that burden and add to the overall health of skin. Natural products are typically eco-friendly with biodegradable ingredients and recyclable packaging.
Apart from being eco-friendly, natural shower gels are also cruelty-free and ethically derived therefore, they are a good choice for your body and the environment.
What Makes Us Special – Apple & Bears
We at Apple & Bears believe that skincare does not have to be toxic or harsh. Our award winning body care treatments are made from nature's best ingredients- SLS-free and toxin-free.
Our products are all vegan-certified, cruelty-free, and made in the UK, providing the best quality and ethical standards.
About Us
Apple & Bears is a UK family run skincare company committed to providing natural and ethical body care. We are clean beauty enthusiasts and produce high quality bath and body products that encourage well being and sustainability.
We combine science and nature to develop recipes that care for, guard, and restore your skin without safety and sustainability compromises. Love, transparency, and the highest respect for people, animals, and the planet go into every bottle.
