Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in May, 2024 but has been updated for freshness and accuracy. Capital Femme is now a space where skincare meets Scripture💛
You’re a busy real estate professional; mastering day‑long showings, client calls, and closing deals. With demanding schedules, self-care often takes a backseat, and your skin and emotions bear the brunt of toxic ingredients.
But did you know that using clean, healthy products not only nourishes your complexion—it also supports your overall health, emotional well-being, and self-worth?
Here’s how, when your body feels well and your emotions are balanced, you’re more likely to view yourself with kindness and confidence.
Good health supports energy and clarity, while emotional well-being helps silence negative self-talk. Both of which nurture a deeper sense of self-worth rooted in how Christ sees you.
The Clean Skincare market
As women in real estate who value appearance yet sometimes struggle with confidence, choosing safe skincare becomes an act of honoring your body—your temple, as encouraged in 1 Corinthians 6:19‑20. It’s faith-aligned self-care that reinforces your identity and keeps you energized amidst a hectic workweek.
“The global vegan cosmetics market was valued at $17.8 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $32.48 billion by 2031.” according to InsightAce Analytic. “The North American vegan cosmetics market was valued at $13.5 billion in 2019 and is expected to reach $21 billion by 2029.” – The Vegan Society.
These statistics show that there is quite a large market out there for clean skincare products.
In today’s post, you’ll see some popular toxic skincare ingredients, their effects on you and safer alternatives. We’ll look at parabens, hydroquinone, benzophenone, formaldehyde and phthalates.
1. Parabens
Parabens are very commonly used preservatives as they prevent the growth of bacteria, moulds and yeast.
The potential risks are skin irritation and hormone disruption. Parabens are endocrine-disrupting chemicals that can mimic estrogen in the body and affect the hormone system.
They can be absorbed through the skin, blood, and digestive system.
Estrogen fluctuations can cause mood swings. Low estrogen leads to feelings of sadness, anxiety, or frustration. It has also been found in some breast cancer tumours. Parabens also negatively affect female reproductive systems.
Potassium sorbate is a natural alternative. It is a natural preservative derived from mountain ash tree berries. Potassium sorbate is considered safe for the skin and is used in many natural skin and hair care products. It’s non-toxic and non-sensitizing.
2. Hydroquinone
Hydroquinone is commonly used in prescription-based creams to lighten dark areas on the skin such as in Melasma or large sun spots. At high concentrations or in vulnerable individuals, it can trigger skin irritation.
When used for prolonged periods, it can cause darkening or discoloration of the skin. It can make your skin sensitive to sunlight, leading to unexpected burns. When used in large amounts over a prolonged period it can also be associated with low birth weight in a fetus.
Research done by the Public Library of Medicine in the US indicates a connection between different ingredients such as hydroquinone and emotional well-being. “Higher doses of hydroquinone are associated with a greater risk of depression” quoted from the research.
It is banned in Europe, Japan and Australia.
Some plant-based alernatives include:
- Kojic acid: A natural alternative derived from the fermentation process of malting rice
- Licorice: It contains compounds that prevent the body from producing too much tyrosinase, the building block of melanin. Excessive production can lead to hyperpigmentation and other skin issues.
- Niacinamide: Also known as nicotinamide or Vitamin B3, this antioxidant inhibits the transfer of pigments to skin cells.
- Soy: A melanin inhibitor that can help brighten and even out skin tone.
- Tumeric: Has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce hyperpigmentation and even skin tone.
3. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde in skincare arises as a by-product from preservatives which gradually release formaldehyde in order to prevent micro-organism overgrowth such as bacteria. Formaldehyde can cause dryness, irritate the skin and trigger an allergic reaction in some individuals.
Formaldehyde can also cause skin irritation or a red, itchy rash when it comes into contact with the skin. Long-term exposure can affect the nervous system causing headaches, dizziness, thirst, apathy, and difficulty concentrating.
Some natural alternatives to formaldehyde are:
- Potassium sorbate: A salt derived from sorbic acid found in some fruits and vegetables. It’s a natural preservative that can extend the shelf life of water-based products and protect against microbial growth.
- Sodium benzoate: Derived from benzoic acid, which is found in some fruits and berries.
- Phenoxyethanol: is naturally found in plants like green tea and chicory.
If you’ve been exploring clean skincare and want something practical yet nurturing—especially for those moments when you’re moisturizing on the go. The Urban Hydration Rosehip Hand Cream is a beautiful option. It’s enriched with phenoxyethanol, packed with nourishing ingredients, and designed with both care and affordability in mind.
Looking for a better way to care for your skin without compromise? Read the full review here and find out why it’s worth it.
4. Benzophenone
This is a UV filter commonly found in sunscreens.
Some small studies have suggested that it and its derivatives oxybenzophone and avobenzophone can be hormone disrupters. Like formaldehyde, benzophenone can also cause dryness.
This has led to many cosmetic formulations using alternative UV filters while further research continues.
Benzophenones (BPs) are a family of compounds that are persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT). They are found in many personal care and skin care products, like sunscreens and moisturizers.
Their widespread use in skincare products has prompted more people to seek gentler, skin-loving options.
Mineral sunscreens made with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are natural alternatives to chemical sunscreens. They are safe and provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
When it comes to moisturizing, particularly hand care, especially if you’re frequently washing and sanitizing at work. You deserve a product that does more than just moisturize.
Urban Hydration’s Rosehip Hand Cream is a clean, nourishing option that’s free from benzophenone and full of ingredients your skin will love, like glycerin and rosehip oil.
It’s affordable, easy to toss in your bag. Perfect for keeping your hands soft and cared for throughout the day. This hand cream is low-maintenance skincare for women on the go. Get one for yourself here 💖.
5. Phthalates
Phthalates are chemical compounds used in skincare products to help moisturizers absorb into the skin and extend shelf life. Phthalates are extremely harmful.
They are a type of endocrine disruptor, which can potentially disrupt the normal functioning of the hormonal system and create an imbalance.
That is why it is recommended to use phthalate-free products for healthy skin. Commonly found in shampoos, face wash and body lotion. Phthalates can lead to increased chances of eczema in children and neurotoxicity.
Symptoms of neurotoxicity include:
- Behavioral problems
- Depression
Other safer options include:
- Tea tree oil
- Glycerin
- Sodium gluconate
Takeaway
Long-term exposure to toxins like parabens, hydroquinone, formaldehyde, benzophenone, and phthalates isn’t just harsh on your skin. It can disrupt hormones, silence emotional balance, and even affect your health.
As a busy real estate professional, your body, mind, and spirit deserve better.
When you choose clean, vegan, transparent skincare, you’re doing more than boosting glow—you’re supporting your whole self. You’re embracing confidence rooted in self-worth, honoring your faith, and nourishing your physical and emotional health.
At Capital Femme, we recommend faith-friendly picks like Urban Hydration’s Rosehip Hand Cream—perfect for your busy lifestyle and for caring for that temple God gave you.
Thanks for staying till the end!
Note: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through it, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support.
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