Science will tell you that the gluten protein is too large to permeate the skin, but sometimes science is wrong. I thought I was being good to my hair and face by using Kiehl's products - after all, they tout their use of the "finest, naturally-derived ingredients." Unfortunately, one of those ingredients is the hydrolyzed wheat protein - and it's in everything from shampoo to body wash to moisturizers. I recently embarked on a search for gluten-free skincare and cosmetics; here's a list of my favorite gluten-free skin products:
Giovanni "Smooth As Silk" Deep Moisture Shampoo & Conditioner
Giovanni is an organic haircare line that's also affordable! The duo alleviate frizz and increase shine without using any sulfates. According to their marketing pitch, Giovanni's Smooth As Silk products contain a blend of organic oils, ripe-harvested from renewable plants at the peak of their freshness, cold pressed and refrigerated immediately to ensure maximum purity. In addition to the shine factor, I also love the products because of their refreshing, citrus scent.
100% Pure Organic Pomegranate Antioxidant Hydration SPF20
Straight from the website, this facial moisturizer is 100% natural, 100% vegan and 100% gluten-free. I have freckles, so I only use moisturizers with SPF - then comes the problem of having the product act more like a moisturizer than a greasy sunblock. This lotion is super light weight, which may have been why I did not find it to be super moisturizing. It definitely works in the interim, but I am on the market for a new moisturizer when this bottle runs out. I've been looking at the Keys brand, so I may try their Solar Rx Moisturizing Cosmetic Sunblock SPF 30+
Afterglow Cosmetics
I used to be a faithful Bare Escentuals fan and thought I was doing wonders for my skin with the natural mineral-based makeup. I didn't realize that the excess shine and end-of-day cakey look was because of the makeup's bismuth oxychloride ingredient. Bismuth oxychloride is a thick, heavy mineral with reflective qualities. Afterglow Cosmetics are free of synthetic dyes, paraben preservatives and free irritants like bismuth oxychloride. And they're also gluten-free! I am absolutely in love with my Afterglow foundation, bronzer and blush - they look incredibly natural and I never feel shiny!
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