[Caution] 5 Un-Pretty Beauty Ingredients
Something I read last week got me thinking about the potential toxicity of all the cosmetics, skincare and hair care products (not to mention cleaning products) in my apartment.
I decided to finish the products I have and be more mindful of what I buy going forward…
Because I tend to be an alarmist, my first thought was to box everything up and throw it away.
Of course, that wouldn’t work — adding hazardous materials to a landfill wouldn’t exactly ease my burden.
Plus, what a waste of money. Instead, I decided to finish the products I have and be more mindful of what I buy going forward. I’ll be especially wary of products with any of the following ingredients:
1. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
What:
A surfactant found in shampoos, cleansers, creams and toothpaste.
Why:
It’s linked to rashes, skin inflammation, hair loss, tooth damage and may have an estrogenic effect.
2. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG/ PPG)
What:
Propylene Glycol is used as a humectant (binds moisture). It’s in deodorant, shampoo/conditioner, face creams and makeup.
Why:
PEG compounds sometimes contain Ethylene Oxide, which is linked to leukemia, uterine, breast, and brain cancer.
3. Phthalates (DBP, DMP, DEP)
What:
The most common forms of phlalates are Dimethylphthalate, Diethylphthalate, and Dibutylphthalate and (compounds comprising) fragrance. Found in perfumes, hair spray and deodorants.
Why:
Phthalates can cause birth defects in male reproductive systems, pre-mature sexual development in girls and asthma. They are also linked to breast cancer.
4. Parabens
What:
Petroleum-based preservatives that extended a product’s shelf life. Parabens are found in many skincare products and soap.
Why:
In large amounts, parabens may cause liver problems, breast cancer and reproductive problems in children exposed to the chemical in the womb.
5. Formaldehyde
What:
Another preservative used in cosmetics and beauty products.
Why:
Formaldehyde can irritate the skin and damage the nervous system and has been linked to certain forms of cancer.
