Hidden Dangers in Cosmetics
Many Cosmetics Could Hold Health Hazards
Looking great is important to Americans, which is one of the reasons the cosmetic industry is booming. Most people pay relatively close attention to what they put in their bodies, but how many people pay just as close attention to what they put on them?
The Skin as a Barrier and a Sponge
Doubtful that the skin acts as a barrier and a sponge? Try this experiment: cut a clove of garlic in half then rub the juice of the garlic on the bottom of the big toe. After that watch the clock and see how long it takes before the taste of garlic materializes in the mouth.
The skin organ is meant to act as a barrier to the outside world, but that does not mean it is impenetrable. This organ we call the skin does tend to absorb what is on it, including lotions, cosmetics, swimming pool water, soap, detergent and dyes from clothing. The skin is also, obviously, quite close to the blood stream as demonstrated by our garlic experiment. It turns out that paying attention to what we put on our bodies is just as important as watching what we put into them.
Cosmetics and Toxic Ingredients
Depending on an individual's choice in cosmetics, there could be one of several different toxins included. These toxins can be found in makeup, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, soap and more. It is important to read the label and see exactly what is being purchased.
- Phthalates. These chemicals, banned in Europe, are known to disrupt the endocrine system as they mimic estrogen in the system. They have been linked to a variety of different issues including reproductive and neurological damage, birth defects, lung, kidney and liver damage. A recent study also linked phthalates to ADHD when it was found that school-aged children with high amounts of this chemical in their urine were more prone to hyperactivity. Phthalates are not, however, always easy to identify. Some psydonyms include DPB, DEP, DEHP, BzBP, and DMP. It is also said that customers should be leery of the generic term "fragrance" when purchasing their personal care products.
- Formaldehyde. In a study by The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics of 28 products tested for this potential carcinogen, 23 or 82% of the products contained the substance.
- 1,4 Dioxane. This chemical, not required to be listed on ingredient labels because it is a byproduct of processes and other chemicals, was found in 32 of 48 products in the same study. This chemical is also a known carcinogen and could be posing as a "fragrance" additive as well.
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG). PEG is a chemical also found in many cosmetics and is often used as a binding agent. It is known to strip moisture from the skin and causes dermatitis and rashes on some people. It is also a possible carcinogen.
It seems that the E.U. is taking quite an initiative, having banned over 1000 dangerous substances from use in cosmetics, while the U.S. is still at a mere 8. Considering the evidence backing toxins in cosmetics it would seem time that the U.S. get on the train!
Product Avoidance Rules
Read labels! First and foremost, find out what you can from the product label. Avoid products with too many ingredients and lengthy names. Try to choose products whose labels can be deciphered. Google any ingredients with unfamiliar names. Organic products tend to have less likelihood of containing toxic chemicals. Shop at a local store where employees specialize in a particular department and do not be shy about asking. They are usually happy to help!
References:
- Kim BN, Cho SC, Kim Y, Shin MS, Yoo HJ, Kim JW, etal. Biol Psychiatry. (2009). Phthalates Exposure and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder in School-Age Children.
- Harmon, Katherine. (2009). Hidden dangers in cosmetics and body care. Scientific American.
- Shapley, Dan. How to Avoid Phthalates In 3 Steps.(2008). The Daily Green
Hidden Dangers in Cosmetics
|
What do you think about this article?
More in Health & Wellness
Latest Articles