This is a subject that I feel VERY strongly about. I mean, without looking it up would you really know what Oxybenzone was, and the damage it can cause to your body? I sure didn’t and i’ve looked a lot in to this ind of thing. I’m sure there are thousands of others who also wouldn’t have a clue that Oxybenzone has been linked to – hormone disruption, cellular damage and low birth weight in newborns. Oh, and this is often found in various beauty cosmetics and suncreams.
So, to try and make it some what easier to understand, below is a list of chemicals you want to stay away from.
Coal Tar
Banned in the EU but still used in North America. Found in dry skin treatments and anti-dandruff shampoos. It can also list as a colour plus number – FD&C Red No. 6.
DEA/TEA/MEA
These are all suspected carcinogens in cosmetics such as shampoos, body washes and soaps.
Ethoxylated Surfactants
This ingredient is a by-product. Made from adding carcinogenic ethylene oxide to make other chemicals less harsh. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has found it in 57% of baby washes in the U.S. Avoid any ingredients containing the letters “eth.”
Formaldehyde
A carcinogen and irritant found in nail products, hair dye, fake eyelash adhesives and shampoos. Banned in the EU.
Fragrance/Parfum
This term is an umbrella to hide many types of nasty chemicals companies don’t want you to see or know about. Connected to headaches, dizziness, asthma, and allergies.
Hydroquinone
This one isn’t all that common as it’s now banned in the UK. It was once very popular for lightening the skin. This has been rated the most toxic ingredient on the EWG’s Skin Deep database. Linked to cancer and reproductive toxicity.
Lead
This is a known carcinogen in lipsticks and hair dyes. It isn’t listed individually as an ingredient because it’s a contaminant, not an ingredient. If un-sure, you can email the company directly who have to disclose this information when asked directly.
Mercury
Mercury is another lovely one which impairs brain development. It’s also a main ingredient in mascaras and some eyedrops. Both being areas close to the brain and the one place you do not want it getting in to.
Mineral Oil
This is a by-product of petroleum, often found in baby oil, moisturisers and styling gels. This nasty ingredient creates a film that stops the skin’s ability to release toxins.
Oxybenzone
Active ingredient in chemical sunscreens that accumulates in fatty tissues. It causes allergies, hormone disruption, cellular damage, low birth weight.
Parabens
Parabens are preservatives essentially. Linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity.
Paraphenylenediamine (PPD)
Used in hair products and dyes, but toxic to skin and our immune systems.
Phthalates
Plasticisers banned in the EU and California in children’s toys, but present in many fragrances, perfumes, deodorants, lotions. Linked to endocrine disruption, liver/kidney/lung damage, cancer.
Silicone-derived Emollients
This ingredient isn’t biodegradeable and also prevents the skin from breathing. This lovely ingredient has a strong link to tumours and skin irritation.
Sodium Lauryl (ether) Sulfate (SLS, SLES)
This ingredient was once used as an industrial degreaser! It’s now mainly in bath and shower gels and shampoo to make them appear more foamy. SLS is absorbed into the body and often irritates the skin.
Talc
Similar to asbestos! It’s a common ingredient found in baby powder, eye shadows, blushers and many deodorants. Linked to ovarian cancer and most respiratory problems.
Toluene
Disrupts the immune and endocrine systems. It’s an ingredient found in nail and hair products and is often hidden under the ingredient ‘fragrance’.
Triclosan
Found in antibacterial products, hand sanitisers, and deodorants – linked to cancer. Avoid the brand Microban who seem to love this ingredient!
There are so many brands that do AMAZING natural alternatives these days. At great prices too so there’s no excuse for companies to continue to use these harmful chemicals in cosmetics.
Look after your body now and it will look after you in later years. I’ve loved learning about the natural alternatives that are so readily available in shops and online. You can even make your own skincare products at home thanks to YouTube tutorials and kits you can buy. I’ve even started making my own soaps. It’s so cheap and easy to do. Plus I just love knowing exactly what’s going into each one. Plus, they make awesome gifts to friends and family!
In fact, the only products i use now are at least 99% natural, organic and fragrance free – unless by natural essential oils. My skincare involves 100% raw coconut oil – that’s it!
Do you look for these nasty chemicals in your cosmetics?
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