8 BENEFICIAL AND HARMFUL CHEMICALS YOUR SKIN ABSORBS（Part.2）

Next to the last article, let's move on：

Ever wondered which chemicals can actually absorb into your skin and get into your bloodstream? Here are nine which can, and either affect your health positively or negatively. Let’s start with the chemicals to avoid.

Chemicals That Benefit The Skin

5. Aloe Vera

While you might not class aloe vera as a chemical, aloe vera gel actually contains various plant chemicals, including two hormones: auxin and gibberellins. These hormones are wonderful skin chemicals that help inwound healing and have a potent anti-inflammatory action. Aloe vera also contains polyphenols, which help to inhibit the growth of the bacteria that can cause infections and inflammation. Studies have also shown that the compound in aloe improve facial wrinkles and elasticity.

6. Coconut Oil’s Medium-Chain Fatty Acids

There are three fatty acid compounds in coconut oil that are beneficial for your skin: lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid. Lauric acid has anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-protozoa properties. It can be helpful for destroying lipid-coated viruses, such as herpes. Capric acid, is antimicrobial, too. Caprylic acid is antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory, fighting candida, skin infections and acne. Medium-chain fatty acids permeate cell membranes easily, and when applied to the skin, they keep it smooth to the touch, retaining the moisture content of the skin. Taking coconut oil internally also benefits the skin, as the fats deposit under the skin and give it an even tone, reducing the appearance of large pores.

In studies, coconut oil has been shown to benefit xerosis, a skin condition characterized by dry, rough, scaly and itchy skin and may be helpful in wound healing.

To benefit from this wonderful oil, look for organic products that contain cold-pressed coconut oil. Ann Marie Gianni uses coconut oil in her Aloe Herb Cleanser.

7. Hyaluronic Acid

Though it sounds like a chemical you wouldn’t want to put on your skin, hyaluronic acid is produced by the body naturally and helps retain collagen, increase moisture and provide elasticity and flexibility.

In studies, it has been shown to be a key molecule in skin aging, treating wrinkles, improving hydration and increasing elasticity. It is also thought to be beneficial for treating cold sores and providing sunburn relief.

To benefit from hyaluronic acid’s properties, look for skincare products fortified with high-quality hyaluronic acid, such as Ann Marie Gianni’s Anti-Aging Serum

8. Herb Infused Oils

If you thought aromatic herbs and essential oils were added to skincare products for their scent, you’d be right. But herbs and essential oils contain extremely complex natural compounds that go wild in your body and on your skin, and can heal a variety of skin complaints.

One of the top essential oils for your skin is rose. Rose is especially soothing for dry and aging skin, and has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds which can help conditions like psoriasis and dermatitis. One study even found inhaling rose essential oil inhibited water loss in skin.

Ashwagandha is not a common herb you might find in your skincare products, but quality products like those by Ann Marie Gianni contain it.

Ashwagandha fights the signs of aging, heals wounds, soothes rough and dry skin and stimulates collagen production.

To improve your skin using these natural substances, look for organic herb infused oils that include cutting-edge superfoods, and high-quality essential oils and extracts.