Q: I’m careful to avoid preservatives in foods I eat. Should I also avoid cosmetics and skincare products that contain them?
MyChelle Dermaceuticals licensed esthetician Catie Wiggy responds:
When you hear “preservatives,” it’s usually in reference to chemical ingredients in processed foods that we’re constantly cautioned to avoid. But the truth is, not all preservatives are bad. Some, like those used in the MyChelle skincare line, are naturally derived and serve a very important purpose.
Why would preservatives be added to cosmetics and skincare products? They become contaminated by bacteria and fungi easier than you would think. Products containing water, oils, peptides and carbohydrates are a good place for growth of microbes. Preservatives help prevent microbial growth and spoiling as well as infection of the skin.
MyChelle Dermaceuticals uses plant-based, natural preservatives that depend upon sodium benzoate””an organic acid””as the the main preservative. Sodium benzoate is a bacteriostatic, which means it limits the growth of bacteria by altering the products metabolism; and, it’s considered a fungicide.
Our natural preservatives have potent antimicrobial properties that prevent products from spoiling and prolonging substantially of the shelf-life. Some of these agents also have stabilizing effects able to preserve the function of various active ingredients including antioxidants (vitamins), emulsifiers and surfactants.
MyChelle uses a preservative system that is globally accepted and includes preservatives that are permitted by ECOCERT, NATRUE and the Soil Association for use in certified organic cosmetics. We only use consumer-friendly preservative solutions, including effective paraben replacements.
If you haven’t already, give MyChelle skincare products a try! Gentle, natural and great for every skin type, you won’t be disappointed.