WHY GLUTEN-FREE SKINCARE IS IMPORTANT

With celiac disease and gluten-intolerance on the rise, gluten-free diets are becoming increasingly prevalent. While many individuals understand the importance of removing foods that contain gluten ingredients or byproducts, few take the additional step of eliminating skincare, makeup and other products that contain gluten. Here are a few reasons why choosing gluten-free skincare is important.

Originally published on faciallounge.com

WHY USE GLUTEN-FREE SKINCARE

ALLERGIC REACTION IS POSSIBLE

Contrary to popular belief, gluten is not able to be absorbed through the skin. In order for any substance to be penetrate the skin, it must be less than 500 daltons in size (a dalton is a unit of mass used to express atomic and molecular weights). Gliadin (the protein in gluten) is approximately 631 daltons, making it too large to be absorbed by the skin (source).

However, gluten in skincare product can still be ingested through the mouth in two ways. First, applying products containing gluten on the lips or around the mouth make ingestion highly likely. These products may include lip balms, lipsticks, lip gloss and even moisturizer that has been applied to the face areas around the mouth.

Second, you may apply a product containing gluten to the body (like body lotion) that does not go on the face or mouth. If, however, you do not thoroughly wash your hands after application, you may inadvertently ingest it if you put your hands in or near your mouth. The product can also be transferred to food when touched and thus ingested.

Doctors agree that each celiac or gluten-sensitive individual have different levels of tolerance and different reactions. NYC dermatologist Dr. Robyn Gmyrek states, “When I have a patient on a gluten-free diet and still having symptoms, we go through every product and eliminate any which might provide a gluten exposure.” (source).

Full article continues to discuss what ingredients to avoid as well as our favorite non-toxic and gluten-free makeup!