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​Organic Ingredients vs. Synthetic Chemicals

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 Pretty hurts: are chemicals in beauty products making us ill?

 

         According to the US agency that regulates cosmetics-the FDA's Office of Cosmetics and Colors-"a cosmetic manufacturer may use almost any raw material as a cosmetic ingredient and market the product without an approval from the FDA."  Testing of product ingredients is not only controlled by the manufacturers but is also voluntary. Not surprisingly then, many ingredients in cosmetics, skin care products, and other personal care products are not tested for safety at all, and most have not been evaluated for safety by the FDA. This means that companies can market ingredients that are known to pose potentially serious health risks, including some found in moisturizers. Once believed to be a barrier, we now know that skin is permeable and that ingredients used in skin care products can be absorbed. These include irritants, possible and known carcinogens, and ingredients that may be hormone disruptors.

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​Toxic ingredients found in our everyday personal care products and their effects:



1.4 Dioxane-The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified 1,4-dixane as "likely to be carcinogenic (cancer causing) to humans." Most often found in products that create suds, like shampoos, shower gels, and dish soaps but has also been found in toothpastes, mouthwashes, deodorant, and hair dyes. 

Parabens (Methyl, Ethyl, Propyl, Butyl)-May alter hormone levels, possibly increasing risk for certain types of cancer or impaired fertility. Studies have found parabens in breast tumors; probable skin toxicant (a poison or poisonous agent). 

Phthalates(Dibutyl Phthalates)-Linked to *endocrine disruption; neurotoxicity and neurodevelopmental disorders; toxicity of the brain, kidneys, liver, and lungs. Research from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) shows a probable link between phthalates and asthma as well as allergies. Banned in Europe

Sodium Laureth Sulfate/Sodium Lauryl Sulfate-Alters skin structure, allowing other chemicals to penetrate deep into the skin, increasing amounts of other ​chemicals that reach the bloodstream. Hormone disruptor. May cause hair follicle, skin, and eye damage.

Triclosan-Probable *endocrine disruptor and carcinogen. Easily bio-accumulates to dangerous levels. Linked to cancer and other significant health problems.
Restricted in Japan and Canada

  *Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the endocrine (hormone system) in animals, including humans. These disruptions can cause cancerous tumors, birth defects, and other developmental disorders.​

 

       Please click on the links below for additional information on widely known dangerous ingredients in body and food products.