How can I check my PCPs?

At this point, we’ve covered the basics. We know what parabens are and why they are bad for us, but you’re probably wondering what to do next. Should I just get rid of all of my personal care products? Is everything bad for me? Well, that’s what we’re here for!

Don’t go throwing everything away just yet! There are so many websites and apps out there that easily allow you to check the ingredients of your PCPs to determine if they contain parabens. Some of them even recommend similar, safer products to help you find alternatives. Here’s a list of some of our favourites! Give them a try and feel free to post in the forum to let us know your favourite.

SkinSAFE

SkinSAFE is a free, mobile app that was developed by dermatologists and is partnered with the Mayo Clinic. You can scan products to see their ingredients, how they may impact your health, and find similar alternatives. They screen for various sensitive skin and toxic chemical markers, including parabens. The app presently has over 15,000 products in its database and continues to update it weekly.

Ama Care

The Ama Care mobile app is another free resource that assesses products based on whether they have high, medium, low, or unknown health risks. You can upload pictures of your personal care products to check the ingredients and personalize your skincare routine based on the avoidance of specific ingredients (ie. parabens), skin type, and any sensitivities.

Yuka

Yuka provides both free and premium subscription plans for consumers. In both options, users can scan both food and personal care products to check their ingredients for any chemicals that may cause adverse health effects. It categorizes them as bad, poor, good, or great while also providing a score out of 100. Yuka also provides consumers with safer, healthier alternatives to their favourite products.

You can find links to all of these apps below! Take a look and see if any are for you.

Week recap

It is important to use paraben-free personal care products to promote a healthier lifestyle.