Yuka: An App to Help You on Your Wellness Journey

Health app Yuka, which I recently discovered has quickly become my newest favourite app. Allowing users to scan the barcodes on cosmetic products and food items, Yuka is a great way to learn more about the ingredients in the products you use and consume.

When I first downloaded the app, I began scanning products in my home. I was pleased to learn that my Tom’s of Maine deodorant was rated ‘Excellent,’ and my Biomed Superwhite toothpaste was listed as ‘Good.’ There are other products I scanned that didn’t score as well, none of which I was surprised by, however learning more about the ingredients in some cosmetics was startling. For instance, my eyebrow pen included propylparaben which is considered ‘Hazardous’ and phenoxyethanol which is labelled as a ‘Moderate risk.’ When you click the ‘i’ next to the chemical compound, Yuka shares some information along with scientific sources so that you can conduct further research. 

According to Yuka —

“Propylparaben is classified as an endocrine disruptor that may exhibit estrogenic (i.e. it may contribute to the development of estrogen-dependent tumors and thus certain breast cancers) and anti-androgenic i.e. it affects the development of male hormones) properties.”

“Phenoxyethanol is used primarily as a preservative. It is regulated, and its concentration cannot exceed 1% of the finished product. Some studies indicate toxic effects on blood and liver. It is also suspected to have effects on the hormones and fertility.”

Although some products do not score well, what’s great about this app is that for every ‘Poor’ or ‘Bad’ rating there is a list of healthier recommendations.

Yomi and I are on a wellness journey — our main goals are to be more active, to eat more nutritious, whole foods and to limit toxic products. We’ve got a long way to go, there’s a lot to learn and unlearn, but we plan to share our journey through this space, so do join us as we pursue wellness in all forms.

Ready to start scanning? You can download Yuka today.