What’s in your cosmetics?

In today’s world, where the pursuit of beauty is a billion-dollar industry, it’s essential to take a closer look at the products we use daily. While cosmetics promise to enhance our appearance and boost confidence, there’s an alarming reality we can no longer ignore. Countless beauty and skincare products contain toxins that pose potential risks to our health. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the most common toxic ingredients found in cosmetics, their harmful effects, and why switching to natural alternatives can be a beneficial choice and you can find by going here.

Parabens

Parabens, such as methylparaben and propylparaben, are commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics to prevent microbial growth. However, these synthetic chemicals have been linked to hormonal disruptions and endocrine system imbalances. Studies have shown associations between parabens and increased risks of breast cancer, reproductive disorders, and skin irritation.

Phthalates

Phthalates, often found in fragrances, nail polishes, and hairsprays, help maintain the scent and flexibility of products. Yet, these chemicals have been linked to a myriad of adverse health effects, including developmental and reproductive toxicity, hormonal disruptions, and respiratory issues. Pregnant women and infants are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of phthalates.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

SLS and SLES are surfactants commonly found in soaps, shampoos, and facial cleansers due to their foaming properties. However, they can strip away the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and disruption of the skin’s protective barrier. Moreover, SLS can be contaminated with a carcinogen called 1,4-dioxane, which poses additional health concerns.

Benzophene

Benzophene also known as benzophenone, oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, sulisobenzone sodium, and any ingredient that contains the word benzophenone. This is a chemical that can be found in sunscreens, nail polish, lip applications, foundations, moisturizers and fragrances. It has been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, organ system toxicity, irritation, and ecotoxicity.

BHA & BHT

These chemicals are also known as butylated hydroxyanisole and butylated hydroxytoluen. They are used in moisturizers and cosmetics as preservatives. These chemicals are banned in the EU because they can cause endocrine disruption, organ-system toxicity, developmental and reproductive toxicity, cancer and irritation. They are also harmful to fish and other wildlife.

Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Releasers

While it is rarely used in its pure form, formaldehyde and its releasing agents are used as preservatives in chemicals such as in quaternium-15 and DMDM hydantoin. Formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers are commonly used in cosmetic products such as nail products, hair treatments, and even in our soaps.

Formaldehyde is a well-known carcinogen which is linked to leukemia, tumor formations, joint pain, heart irregularities, skin irritation, allergic reactions, respiratory problems, a weakened immune system and more.

While Formaldehyde could be listed on an ingredients list, it’s unlikely. Here’s a list of some formaldehyde releasers to stay away from:

• Formaldehyde
• Urea
• Imidazolidinyl Urea
• Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
• Benzylhemiformal
• 2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol
• 5-Bromo-5-nitro-1,3-dioxane
• Quaternium-15
• DMDM Hydantoin
• Methenamine
• Polyoxymethylen

Alkanolamines

• monoethanolamine (MEA)
• diethanolamine (DEA)
• triethanolamine (TEA)

Alkanolamines are used as wetting agents in cosmetics. DEA, specifically, is used to provide lather in shampoos. There is little to no information regarding the safety of this chemical in humans, but has shown to increase the incidence of liver and kidney tumors in mice from dermal exposure.

With alkanolamines the main concern is their interaction with other chemicals. It creates an extremely potent carcinogen called nitrosodiethanolamine (NDEA). This is readily absorbed through the skin and has been linked to the development of stomach, esophagus, liver, and bladder cancers.

Petrochemicals

These are incredibly pervasive in beauty products; so many common ingredients are derived from them. A huge health concern with petroleum products is that they can generate 1,4-dioxane, a substance known to potentially contribute to some cancers. It’s also a kidney toxin, neurotoxin, and a respiratory toxin, not to mention a leading groundwater contaminant. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that an alarming 22 percent of all conventional personal care products contain unsafe levels of 1,4-dioxane. EWG also found that “these trace contaminants in petroleum-based ingredients often readily penetrate the skin…and their presence in products is not restricted by government safety standards.”

Some of the common ingredients in beauty products that are petrochemical-derived include:

• Parafin wax
• Mineral oil
• Toluene
• Benzene
• Anything with PEG (polyethylene glycol)
• Anything with DEA (diethanolamine) or MEA (ethanolamine)
• Butanol and any word with butyl: butyl alcohol, butylparaben, butylene glycol
• EDTA (ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid)
• Any word with propyl—isopropyl alcohol, propylene glycol, propyl alcohol, cocamidopropyl betaine
• Parfum or fragrance—95 percent of chemicals used in fragrance are from petroleum. This one word can contain many, many chemicals that don’t need to be listed and are likely endocrine disrupters.

Phenoxyethanol

Phenoxyethanol is a preservative, stabilizer, and even found in the list of some fragrances. Japan’s Standards for Cosmetics have limited the use of this ingredient, and the European Union has labeled it as an irritant and classified it as toxic or harmful especially when used in products used around the mouth and lips.

In 2008, the FDA warned against using a specific nipple cream that contained phenoxyethanol due to it suppressing infants’ central nervous system and causing diarrhea and vomiting in breast-fed babies.

A list of ways Phenoxyethanol could be labeled:

• phenoxyethanol
• 2-phenoxyethanol, euxyl k 400
• 2-hydroxyethyl phenyl ether
• 2-phenoxy-ethanol
• 1-hydroxy-2-phenoxyethane; phe
• 2-phenoxyethyl alcohol
• ethanol, 2-phenoxy-
• ethanol, 2phenoxy
• ethylene glycol, monophenyl ether
• phenoxytol
• 2-phenoxyethanol
• Dyes

Polyacrylamides

This may also be seen on labels as acrylamide, polyacrylate, polyquaternium, and acrylate. This can be found in moisturizers, anti-aging products, color cosmetics and body lotions. It can cause reproductive and developmental toxicity. Polyacrylamide breaks down into a acrylamide which is a known carcinogen.

Siloxane

You will find siloxane in silicone-based products and those that are “Oil-free” make up products. It is used to soften, smooth, and moisten. It will also make hair and cosmetic products dry more quickly and deodorants creams slide on more easily. You want to avoid these ingredients due to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicant, cancer, influence neurotransmitters in the nervous system. They are also harmful to fish and wildlife.

Triclosan

Triclosan is an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent. This substance is labeled as an endocrine disruptor due to a study showing it increases testosterone levels in human infants from prenatal exposure, and also in multiple animal studies showing triclosan has antiestrogenic and antiandrogenic properties. Triclosan is also suspected to be a carcinogen. This substance is absorbed through the skin and can cause dermatitis, allergies, or skin irritation.

Synthetic Fragrances

Fragrances, listed as “parfum” or “fragrance” on product labels, often contain a blend of synthetic chemicals. These undisclosed ingredients can be potential allergens and irritants, triggering skin allergies, respiratory problems, and headaches in sensitive individuals. Opting for products with natural essential oils can provide a safer and more pleasant experience.

Why Switching to Natural Alternatives is Beneficial!

1. Health Benefits: By choosing natural cosmetics, you can reduce your exposure to harmful toxins and potentially mitigate the risks associated with synthetic chemicals. Natural ingredients are often derived from plants, minerals, and other sustainable sources, offering a safer and more nourishing option for your skin and overall well-being.
2. Environmental Consciousness: Natural cosmetics are typically produced using eco-friendly practices, free from harmful pesticides, and genetically modified organisms. By supporting brands that prioritize sustainability, you contribute to a cleaner and greener planet.
3. Ethical Considerations: Many natural cosmetic brands promote cruelty-free and vegan principles, meaning their products are not tested on animals and do not contain animal-derived ingredients. Switching to these options aligns with your values and fosters a more compassionate approach to beauty.

While the allure of conventional cosmetics may be hard to resist, it’s crucial to prioritize your health and make informed choices about the products you use. The prevalence of toxins in cosmetics raises concerns about the potential risks they pose to your well-being. By switching to natural alternatives, you are taking another step towards improving your overall health and wellbeing. If you would like some help finding safer cosmetics then visit my list here.

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