The Best Skin Care Products For Men Contain Nourishing Ingredients
There are thousands of cosmetic ingredients that have been banned by the European Union, but only a handful of them have been banned by the US.
It seems that we're a little bit behind the times in America.
The European Union recognizes the work done by scientific researchers.
We researchers say that if a compound is a probable cause of cancer in humans, it gets banned.
US companies are still sticking with the out of date idea that chemicals do not penetrate the skin's outer barriers.
While it is true that only tiny, barely detectable amounts might penetrate after one use, these are products that we use every day.
Those tiny amounts of chemicals add up to big healthcare problems.
If you want to be safe and protect your long-term health, you're not alone.
It's fun to play the tough guy, but when you're lying in a hospital bed, it isn't easy.
Skin care products for men should, above all else, be completely safe and non-toxic.
They should not contain possible cancer-causing agents, hormones or petrochemicals.
Look for brands that have signed the "Compact for Safe Cosmetics".
None of the major US manufacturers have signed the compact, because they do not adhere to the European guidelines for safety in cosmetics.
When you read the label, avoid cleansers that contain triclosan, a common antibacterial agent.
It mixes with chlorine in water to form chloroform gas, a known human carcinogen.
It is also bad for the environment, because it is not biodegradable.
It kills fish and damages wildlife.
If you want antibacterial activity, choose skin care products for men that contain natural ones like manuka honey or tea tree oil.
They will help reduce blemishes and are completely biodegradable.
For an aftershave astringent, use witch hazel.
It too has natural anti-bacterial and antioxidant activity.
Antioxidants do a lot for our skin's health and appearance.
Realizing that we know this, some companies claim that their skin care products for men include antioxidants, but when you read the label, you find that the only antioxidant agent in the product is an artificial preservative.
Artificial preservatives are technically antioxidants, because they prevent oils from oxidizing and prolong shelf-life.
But, the antioxidants that are good for the skin's health are things like vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, plant-based oils and natural extracts.
Coenzyme Q10 has even been shown to reverse sun damage, one of the primary causes of premature aging.
One excellent ingredient to look for is bioactive keratin.
It stimulates the skin's cells to produce more of their own antioxidants; glutathione and superoxide dismutase.
That helps reverse age spots and evens out pigmentation.
Bioactive keratin has also been shown to reduce redness caused by irritants like razors.
It blocks a biochemical pathway that causes inflammation.
The best skin care products for men contain nourishing ingredients that improve the skin's health, not hazardous chemicals.
Take the time to read the label, before you buy.
It's just the safest thing to do.