Be alert! There are ingredients in common cosmetics that are hazardous… and that you might not be aware of!
Hazardous Cosmetics Ingredients
Unfortunately, there are chemicals in household products that do not have to appear on a label. One of these is 1,4 Dioxane for the simple reason that it is something which is produced during the manufacturing process. This is not a chemical that is added to the actual product.
This chemical appears on the list as those that cause breast cancer and it has been shown to cause cancer in animals. It can be extremely toxic to your brain, kidneys, and to your respiratory system. 1,4 Dioxane is so common that you are most likely exposed to it in several products each and every day.
Products where it can be found include body washes, shampoos, and in children’s bubble bath. It is in any product that creates suds or a lather. It is found in products which contain sodium laureth sulfate.
This is just one of those chemicals which is hard to avoid. Consequently, you need to look for alternative choices. Try to find those that are certified as USDA Organic. As well read the labels as there other some products that are free from this chemical.
Nitrosamines
Many ingredients contain impurities which are known as Nitrosamines. They are usually found in things like mascara, conditioner, concealer and in sunless tanning products. In addition, many countries including Canada and the European Union have banned these cancer causing chemicals. Unfortunately the United States is not one of them.
This chemical is absorbed through your skin and can build up in your liver, bladder, and other areas of your body. It is very toxic and causes cancer. Furthermore, it produces other health risks.
The FDA is actively encouraging cosmetic companies to remove nitrosamines from their cosmetics products across the US. However, it can still be found in approximately 10% of products.
Hydroquinone
One recent trend is that of skin lightening. By using these types of products, you are exposing yourself to a harmful chemical. This chemical is known as hydroquinone. It is found in hair relaxers, hair extension glues and in certain hair coloring products and in hair conditioners. Many facial cleansers and moisturizers also contain this chemical.
Hydroquinone is thought to increase your chances of skin cancer by reducing the amount of melanin in your skin, as well as from being exposed to the actual chemical itself.
Melanin is how your body naturally protects your skin against the sun. As this natural chemical is reduced your skin becomes more vulnerable to UVA and UVB rays. It is banned in many European countries at this time.
Other causes for concern with this chemical is that it is considered a neurotoxin and could affect your brain. It is toxic for your immune system, reproductive system, and for your endocrine system.
If there is one chemical in cosmetics that you totally want to avoid, it would be this one. Thus, ensure that you read all your product labels. And stop using those that contain it. Finally, if it is not labeled, do a little extra homework. Try to discover if it is used during manufacturing.
Cosmetics and Your Health
Always look at the label. After all, this is good practice. Knowing whether there are dangerous substances in your cosmetics is your prerogative. Finally, keep up to date with potential hazards in your cosmetics brand. Protect your health!
