Skin is astoundingly good at absorbing things. Hence a moisturiser can soak right in and give us a lovely peach-soft face. However there’s a downside – any harmful ingredients can pass through the skin and into our blood stream, so we need to be very aware of hidden nasties in our beauty products.
Parabens are used in many skin and hair products, because they prevent harmful bugs growing and so extend the shelf-life. However, if absorbed, they can act as ‘hormone disrupters’ by mimicking our natural oestrogens. Although more research is needed to understand the extent of this possible danger, there’s a theoretical concern that they could promote breast cancer in women and cause sex hormone problems in both teenage girls and boys. Both FDA and European regulators have restrictions on paraben use in beauty products– however if we use several products, each containing parabens, we may be absorbing more than we realise.
Some beauty companies have made a real effort to eliminate potentially harmful chemicals from their merchandise, however these are often designed for women. Teenage boys are using skin and hair products more and more, but what’s available for them?
Not much according to Stephanie Capuano, mother of two teenage boys, which is why she’s created her own range and, as a Californian, she’s called it 31st State. It includes cleansers, anti-blemish and hair styling products and I’ve been reviewing the Foaming Face Wash and Easy Hold Styling Gel.
Visually, the packaging is attractive and understated. Both products had a pleasant but subtle perfume – nothing to cause embarrassment for even the youngest teen. All 31st State products are free of parabens and other suspect chemicals, and are suitable for vegans. They use natural ingredients wherever possible.
As we know, teenage boys frequently suffer with acne and spots, and of course this causes as much embarrassment and confidence-issues as for girls. The Foaming Face Wash, which is formulated to gently cleanse and keep skin soft and clear, was very light, smooth and pleasant to use. It contains Tea Tree, which apparently works over a 12-hour period, decreasing chances of skin irritation and redness. Antibacterial Manuka fights spots, and Magnesium, Copper and Zinc work to prevent further breakouts.
The Easy Hold Styling Gel was clear and light to the touch and non-greasy. It contains naturally-derived ingredients, such as Tamanu Oil which provides UV protection and makes hair shiny, and hydrating Shea Butter for extra conditioning.
So if you’re looking for extra surprises for your son’s stocking, why not try the Christmas box, which includes the awarding winning Face Wash, Body Wash and Hair Putty and costs £25.
Stockists include ASOS, Amazon, Flannels, Ocado, Next and Liberty London, or you can buy direct from the 31st State website.
By Dr K Thompson, award-winning author of From Both Ends of the Stethoscope: Getting through breast
cancer by a doctor who knows.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01A7DM42Q http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01A7DM42Q
Note: These articles express personal views. No warranty is made as to the accuracy or completeness of information given and you should always consult a doctor if you need medical advice.