Ingredients like seed oils, preservatives and fragrances are bad
Hook yourself up to any podcast in the functional medicine or naturopath field and you'll quickly learn that seed oils are bad to consume. They are in ultra processed foods like Doritos, Cheetos, and also in salad dressings, snack foods and granola bars, to name just a few.
What are seed oils?
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Soybean Oil: Soybean oil is widely used in processed foods and cooking oils. It is high in omega-6 fatty acids, which, when consumed in excess, can contribute to inflammation and various health issues.
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Corn Oil: Like soybean oil, corn oil is rich in omega-6 fatty acids. It's commonly used in cooking and food processing, but its high omega-6 content is a concern when consumed excessively.
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Cottonseed Oil: Cottonseed oil is another seed oil high in omega-6 fats. It's used in cooking oils and processed foods, but its inflammatory potential is a concern for health-conscious individuals.
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Canola Oil: While canola oil has a better omega-6 to omega-3 ratio compared to some other seed oils, it still contains a significant amount of omega-6 fatty acids. Excessive consumption can lead to an imbalance in the body's fatty acid profile.
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Sunflower Oil: Sunflower oil is used in cooking and food preparation. While it contains some beneficial nutrients, its high omega-6 content is a concern when consumed in large quantities.
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Safflower Oil: Safflower oil is similar to sunflower oil in terms of its omega-6 fatty acid content. It's often used in cooking oils and processed foods.
Why are seed oils bad in skin care?
First, if it's bad to consume, then you shouldn't be putting it on your skin.
These seed oils are considered problematic primarily due to their high omega-6 fatty acid content. While omega-6 fatty acids are essential for health, they need to be balanced with omega-3 fatty acids. An excessive intake of omega-6 fats, especially in the absence of sufficient omega-3s, can promote inflammation in the body and contribute to various health problems, including:
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Inflammation: A high intake of omega-6 fatty acids relative to omega-3s can lead to chronic inflammation, which is linked to conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, and autoimmune disorders.
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Imbalanced Omega Fatty Acid Ratio: The modern Western diet often contains an imbalance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, with an overabundance of omega-6s. This imbalance is believed to contribute to inflammatory processes in the body.
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Cardiovascular Health: Excessive consumption of omega-6 fatty acids from seed oils may promote the development of cardiovascular issues like atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and high blood pressure.
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Skin Health: When applied topically, seed oils high in omega-6 fatty acids may not be suitable for all skin types. They can potentially contribute to skin inflammation, eczema, rash, acne, and other dermatological issues, especially in individuals prone to sensitive or acne-prone skin.
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Oxidative Stress: Some seed oils, when heated during cooking or processing, can undergo oxidation, leading to the formation of harmful compounds that contribute to oxidative stress and cellular damage in the body.
It's essential to note that not all seed oils are necessarily harmful. Some oils, such as flaxseed oil and chia seed oil, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and can be beneficial when consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Additionally, oils like olive oil and avocado oil, which are low in omega-6s and high in monounsaturated fats, are considered healthier options for cooking and skincare.
What other ingredients are problematic in skin care?
For one, water.
Yes, water, the essential element of life, is not as innocuous as it seems in skincare products.
Water-based products require preservatives to prevent bacterial growth, leading us to question the safety of these preservatives on our skin.
Delving deeper into the world of skincare ingredients, we uncovered the hazards of preservatives commonly used in beauty products. Parabens, for instance, have been linked to hormonal disruptions and potential risks of breast cancer.
Meanwhile, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, often found in shampoos and body washes, can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues.
So can fragrance oils.
We recommend products with natural, non-toxic ingredients and steer clear of harmful additives like parabens and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
There's a powerful reminder here that skincare goes beyond vanity – it's about making informed choices that promote not just beauty, but overall health and well-being.
Next time you reach for that lotion or cream, take a moment to read the label and uncover the truth behind the ingredients.
Your skin will thank you for it.
