Why Paraffin, Microplastics, PEGs, and Endocrine Disruptors are Bad for Your Skin and the Environment

When it comes to skincare, we all want products that work effectively without causing harm. But did you know that many common ingredients in skincare, such as paraffin, microplastics, polyethylene glycols (PEGs), and endocrine disruptors, can have negative effects on both your skin and the environment?

In this comprehensive blog, we will dive into the science behind these ingredients, explaining how they affect skin health, contribute to environmental damage, and why it's essential to consider safer alternatives.

The Downside of Paraffin in Skincare

1. Occlusion and Barrier Function

Paraffin, also known as mineral oil, is a common ingredient in moisturisers and creams due to its ability to create a protective barrier on the skin. While this can help retain moisture, it can also block pores and hinder the skin's natural oil production over time. This occlusive effect may cause skin imbalances like acne, dryness, and folliculitis.

• Study: Draelos (2018) discusses the safety of mineral oil in skincare, emphasizing that it can cause occlusion-related issues, particularly in individuals with sensitive or acne-prone skin. Read the full study here.

Additionally, long-term use of paraffin-based products can weaken the skin’s natural barrier function, making your skin dependent on external moisture sources and prone to dryness.

• Study: Loden (2003) explores the impact of prolonged moisturiser use on skin health, noting that paraffin-based products can reduce the skin’s ability to retain its own moisture. Read more.

2. Comedogenic Potential of Paraffin

Paraffin is considered low on the comedogenic scale, meaning it’s less likely to clog pores compared to other ingredients. However, some studies have shown that paraffin can still contribute to clogged pores, especially in individuals prone to acne.

• Study: A 1974 study by Fulton et al. evaluated the comedogenicity of skincare ingredients, including paraffin, and found it can contribute to clogged pores under certain conditions. Read the study here.

The Environmental and Skin Impact of Microplastics

Microplastics are small plastic particles that are often added to skincare products as exfoliants or fillers. While they improve product texture, they are a significant environmental hazard. Once washed off the skin, microplastics enter water systems, where they accumulate and harm marine life.

• Study: Duis and Coors (2016) discuss how microplastics are pervasive in the environment and can be ingested by aquatic organisms, leading to long-term ecological damage. Learn more here.

On the skin, microplastics may cause irritation, especially for sensitive skin types. They can create micro-abrasions, weakening the skin barrier and increasing susceptibility to irritation.

PEGs: Harmful to Skin and the Environment

Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are commonly used in cosmetics as emulsifiers or thickeners. However, PEGs can interfere with the skin's natural moisture barrier, especially when applied to broken or damaged skin, leading to irritation.

• Study: Brown et al. (2017) published a study in the Journal of Toxicology, highlighting how PEGs can penetrate the skin and cause irritation. 

Furthermore, PEGs are derived from petroleum, and their manufacturing process can introduce harmful contaminants, such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane—both of which are classified as potential carcinogens. These compounds can persist in aquatic environments, further harming wildlife.

• Study: Muncke et al. (2016) detail how PEGs contribute to environmental pollution and can persist in water systems, causing long-term ecological harm. 

Endocrine Disruptors in Skincare

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with hormone function, which can lead to serious health issues. Many ingredients in skincare, such as parabens, phthalates, and triclosan, have been identified as endocrine disruptors. These chemicals can mimic or block hormones, potentially causing reproductive, developmental, and immune problems.

1. Parabens: Hormone-Mimicking Preservatives

Parabens are widely used as preservatives in cosmetics, but they can mimic estrogen and disrupt the body’s hormonal balance. They have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and reproductive issues.

• Study: Darbre et al. (2004) found measurable levels of parabens in breast cancer tissue, suggesting that these compounds can accumulate in the body and potentially contribute to cancer development. Read more.
• Study: Guo et al. (2018) reviewed the presence of parabens in human tissues and the potential health risks posed by their widespread use. Learn more here.

2. Phthalates: Plasticizers that Disrupt Hormonal Balance

Phthalates are used in cosmetics, particularly in fragrances and flexible plastics, but they can disrupt hormone production. They have been linked to reproductive health issues, including lower sperm count and infertility.

• Study: Swan et al. (2005) found that prenatal exposure to phthalates was linked to altered genital development in male infants. Read the full study here.
• Study: Howdeshell et al. (2008) elaborated on the reproductive health risks associated with phthalates in their research on endocrine disruption. Read more here.

3. Triclosan: Antibacterial Agent with Thyroid Disruption

Triclosan, an antibacterial agent once commonly found in skincare products, has been shown to interfere with thyroid hormone activity, potentially affecting metabolism and overall hormonal health.

• Study: Paul et al. (2010) found that triclosan disrupted thyroid hormone activity in rats, raising concerns about its impact on human health. 

4. Bisphenol A (BPA): Plastic Packaging and Hormonal Disruption

BPA, often found in plastic packaging and sometimes in skincare products, mimics estrogen and has been linked to reproductive harm, cardiovascular issues, and certain cancers.

• Study: Rubin (2011) reviewed how BPA interferes with hormone function, emphasizing its role in reproductive health problems. Read the review here.

Environmental Concerns for Endocrine Disruptors

Endocrine disruptors not only affect human health but also pose significant risks to the environment. Once they enter water systems, these chemicals can interfere with the reproductive systems of aquatic organisms, leading to population declines and ecosystem disruption.

• Study: Kidd et al. (2007) demonstrated how synthetic estrogen, a common endocrine disruptor, caused the collapse of fish populations by disrupting reproduction. 

Conclusion: Choose Safe, Eco-Friendly Alternatives

With mounting evidence about the harmful effects of paraffin, microplastics, PEGs, and endocrine disruptors, it's essential to be mindful of what ingredients are in your skincare products. These chemicals not only pose risks to skin health but also contribute to environmental degradation.

At Obvs Skincare, we are dedicated to providing safe, natural, and sustainable skincare options. Our products are free from harmful synthetic additives, ensuring both your skin and the planet remain healthy.