There’s a growing concern amongst healthcare professionals regarding the vast number of cosmetics we’re using. Wait, allow me to re-phrase that, the issue is not so much about the number of cosmetics themselves, but the number of chemicals in which they contain. A recent report claims the average woman is exposing herself to around 515 different synthetic chemicals each day care of her grooming routine. The very same chemicals that are found in cleaning products and that are linked to cancer, allergies, irritation, hormone disruptions and organ damage.
Here’s a breakdown of some everyday cosmetic items. I won’t be surprised if the following alarms you and thus prompts you the ask the question: So, what’s the alternative? I must add that not all products on the market contain these chemicals, so my best advice is to read the label carefully and try switching some, if not all, of your products to those that are natural and/or free of parabens and preservatives. Try Ren, Sodarshi or Pur products.
Hairspray
Average number of chemicals: 11
Most alarming ingredient: Octinoxate Isophthalates
Possible side effects: Allergies; hormone disruption; linked to changes in cell structure
Shampoo
Average number of chemicals: 15
Most alarming ingredient: Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Tetrasodium, Propylene Glycol
Possible side effects: Irritation; possible eye damage
Deodorant
Average number of chemicals: 15
Most alarming ingredient: Isopropyl Myristate
Possible side effects: skin: eye and lung irritation; headaches; dizziness; respiratory problems
Body lotion
Average number of chemicals: 32
Most alarming ingredient: Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Polyethylene Glycol.
Possible side effects: Rashes; irritation; hormone disruptions
Fake tan
Average number of chemicals: 22
Most alarming ingredient: Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben
Possible side effects: Rashes; irritation; hormone disruption
Perfume
Average number of chemicals: 250
Most alarming ingredient: Benzaldehyde
Possible side effects: Irritation; nausea; linked to kidney damage
Nail varnish
Average number of chemicals: 31
Most alarming ingredient: Phthalates
Possible side effects: Linked to issues with fertility and developing babies
Foundation
Average number of chemicals: 24
Most alarming ingredient: Polymethyl Methacrylate
Possible side effects: Allergies; disrupts immune system; links to cancer
Blush
Average number of chemicals: 16
Most alarming ingredient: Ethylparaben, Methylparaben, Propylparaben
Possible side effects: Rashes; irritation; hormonal disruptions
Eyeshadow
Average number of chemicals: 26
Most alarming ingredient: Polyethylene terephthalate
Possible side effects: Linked to cancer; infertility, hormonal disruptions; possible organ damage
Lipstick
Average number of chemicals: 33
Most alarming ingredient: Polymethyl Methacrylate
Possible side effects: Allergies; links to cancer
Source:
www.dailymail.co.uk