This Not That: Skincare Ingredient Detox

For decades, hormone disrupting ingredients (EDCs) like retinol, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid have been considered the gateway to achieving clear and healthy skin. These ingredients may deliver results, but the side effects such as skin irritation and long term damage to your skin and health are kept hush-hush. 

The truth is, the products you put on your skin are not skin deep. Your skin is the largest organ and it absorbs everything you apply to it - hormone disrupting chemicals and all. So although ingredients, like retinol, may help to promote youthful looking skin in the near term, the gradual bioaccumulation leads to hormone imbalance and negative long term effects on your skin later. 

Thankfully, science and skincare technology is pushing beyond old school heroes and looking to hormone clean alternatives that deliver the same benefits without the compromise. So if you’re looking to unlock clear and glowing skin without harsh and potentially harmful ingredients, opt for these clean ingredient swaps! 

Get with Benthi Plant Peptides NOT Retinol

Retinol and other retinoids, such as tretinoin, is one of the most popular “cure all” skincare ingredients recommended to those with acne and wrinkles. Equally as well known are the many side effects, from irritation to peeling to sun damage from sun sensitivity. One of the lesser known side effects of retinol is its ability to disrupt testosterone and progesterone levels, which can trigger a host of other problems beyond a compromised complexion. 

Skip the irritation, “purging” periods, and hormone disruption, and opt for Benthi Plant Peptides. These hormone safe botanical peptides offer the same benefits as retinol, including boosting collagen production and improving skin tone and texture. Plus they add moisture to your skin, eliminating the increased dryness/sensitivity/irritation experienced with retinol.

Use Willow Bark Extract NOT Salicylic Acid

Salicylic Acid, a Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHA), is a skin exfoliant known for its ability to treat and prevent breakouts. But, it’s also a known endocrine disruptor, as high quantities may imitate the hormone estrogen. Salicylic acid is also not recommended during pregnancy as it is made from the same chemical as aspirin.

Willow Bark, however, is a multi-active ingredient that purifies and exfoliates the skin, reduces the appearance of pores, and balances oil production. This natural breakout fighter is rich in polyphenols (antioxidants) and helps soothe the skin. It uniquely tackles breakouts, without disrupting hormones and is safe for pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Try Sulfur NOT Benzoyl Peroxide

Benzoyl Peroxide is a go-to for acne-prone skin. Although it can wipe out blemishes and bacteria, it also can wipe out your whole skin microbiome. The effect is to wreak long term havoc on your complexion and leads to irritation, redness, and flaking. Although more research is needed, one study demonstrates the potential for endocrine disruption with repeated exposure, and it is not considered safe for use during pregnancy. 

Swap in sulfur Instead. It's one of the only (and extremely effective) anti-breakout ingredients that is hormone safe. Studies have shown that sulfur has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a natural pimple fighter. What makes this active so effective is that it doesn’t just soothe breakouts and calm angry skin; it also exfoliates, helping to clear dead skin cells and prevent your pores from being blocked and new blemishes from forming. It also happens to be the hero ingredient in our Blemish calming Cleanser.

Find it in Blemish Calming Cleanser:  The first hormonally safe face wash. This  foaming cleanser clears breakouts by decongesting pores with gentle exfoliation and as a natural antibacterial it kills bacteria on the skin.  

Look for Ascorbyl Glucoside NOT L-Ascorbic Acid

While neither of these ingredients are considered endocrine disruptors, the significant difference in efficacy and stability is worth noting. Vitamin C is a popular ingredient in skincare – it offers antioxidant protection, boosts collagen production, brightens and hydrates. However, certain types of vitamin C, including L-Ascorbic Acid, are highly unstable, meaning they lose their effectiveness quickly. 

Think of Ascorbyl Glucoside as the amped up version of L-Ascorbic Acid. This type of vitamin C is the most stable and effective form available. Ascorbyl Glucoside is hydrophilic (able to dissolve in water), making it easily absorbable, increasing its glow-inducing effects. Despite its potency, Ascorbyl Glucoside is the least form of vitamin C least likely to cause irritation.

Opting for old classics when it comes to skincare can feel like a safe and dependable route. But detoxing your skincare ingredients and choosing hormone clean alternatives will deliver the same results without potential negative effects. Your skin will thank you in the near and long term.