Most people know that there are oodles of chemicals and preservatives in the health and beauty products that we buy. What makes them particularly scary is that the names are long and unpronounceable, making them sound even more ominous. Sadly, most of these chemicals are known carcinogenics, but they remain on the market. You may recall that the purpose of this blog is to find and recommend wonderful natural products that make us beautiful without sacrificing health or pocketbooks. (By the way, it really is fun to try to make these products yourself. That way, you really know what's going in the stuff). If you don't have time, read through the list below and try to avoid these chemicals, preservatives and antimicrobials when you are buying your beauty items.
Beware of these chemicals
Urea and DMDM - These preservatives release formaldehyde. (Formaldehyde is used in embalming fluids. Do you want that on your body?) It can irritate the respiratory system, cause skin reactions and trigger heart palpitations. It may also cause allergies, depression, chest pain, headaches and asthma attacks. It is also carcinogenic.
These chemicals are commonly found in: store brand skin, antiperspirants, body, hair and nail products.
The parabens
The parabens include: methyl paraben, butyl paraben, propyl paraben and ethyl paraben.
These chemicals behave like estrogen in the body. Many breast tumors are related to abnormal estrogen levels.
They are used to inhibit the growth of bacteria.
They are found in nearly everything: hair pomades, lotions, and skin creams.
Petroleum and mineral oil
These two products come from petrolatum (intially, they were used in lubricating machines). They are often used in skin care products to moisturize and protect the skin. Ironically, they have been found to do neither; on the contrary, they block pores and prevent the skin from secreting natural oils which lead to dryness. In the case of prevention of chafing, it has been found to lock in moisture whch can lead to skin breakdown, such as diaper rash.
These products are found in almost all health and beauty aids particularly in hair pomades, creams, lotions and soaps.
Sodum laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate
Are two chemicals are known for their sudsing action. They are commonly found in shampoos. These products cause dryness and also strip the hair of natural oils. Eye and mucus membrane irriation are common.
Ths product also can be found in toothpastes.
Synthetic colors
These chemicals are put in products for nothing more than to make them look good. However, the list of problems that they can cause is not so pretty. They have been linked to cancers and can irritate the skin.
You can identify them by FD C followed by a number and the name of the color.
These products can be found in anything that has a color.
DEA, MEA, TEA
These are hormone disrupting chemcals that form nitrates, which are known carcinogenics that have been linked to cancers of the liver and kidneys.
They are known to adjust the ph of the product.
Synthetic fragrances
Added to products to provide an appealing smell.
These chemicals can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, vo9miting and rashes.
In summary
Stay away from these chemicals. There are not worth sacrificing your health. Instead, seek out natural oils and products that will enhance your beauty from the inside out.
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