The dangers of chemical-based cosmetics

Many cosmetics contain dangerous chemical ingredients that can cause damage much deeper than the skin level. The cosmetics industry adds synthetic chemicals to everything from shaving cream to body lotion to lipstick. Many of these ingredients are the same as those found in products used to stabilize pesticides and clean industrial equipment. You may think it would be illegal to include such dangerous ingredients in cosmetics sold to the public, but major loopholes in federal law allow the practice to continue, despite the fact that these ingredients are linked to birth defects, infertility, and even cancer.

Many people do not fully understand the dangers of chemical-based cosmetics, and never give a second thought to what they may be putting on their skin. Remember, the skin is the largest body organ. Anything applied to it is absorbed directly into the bloodstream. The continued use of chemical-based cosmetics has been linked to numerous adverse health effects, yet most people continue to use them without realizing how dangerous they really are.

Below, we’ll take a look at some of the most commonly used chemicals in cosmetics and how they affect your health.

lead

Lead has been found in more than 650 different cosmetics, including lipstick, nail polish, whitening toothpaste, foundation, and sunscreen. Lead is a known neurotoxin that has been linked to behavior problems, speech delays, and learning disabilities in children. It has been shown to delay puberty in girls and reduce fertility in both men and women.

Ethylene oxide

Ethylene oxide is a chemical that is traditionally used to sterilize surgical instruments. Because it has been shown to buffer the effects of soapy agents, trace amounts can be found in body washes, shampoos, and facial cleansers. According to the National Toxicology Program, is it also classified as a carcinogen?

parabens

Parabens are one of the most commonly found chemicals in chemical-based cosmetics. They are used in deodorants, creams, lotions, and ointments as a kind of condom. They are very easily absorbed by the skin, making them one of the most dangerous chemical ingredients known. In fact, they have even been identified in samples of breast tumors.

phthalates

Phthalates are chemicals found in synthetic fragrances (such as scented body sprays) and nail polish that have been shown to disrupt the endocrine system. This can cause girls to experience puberty early, increasing the risk of developing breast cancer later in life.

triclosan

Triclosan is a popular chemical that is widely used in toothpastes, deodorants, and antibacterial body washes to prevent mold growth. This chemical is technically classified as a pesticide. Studies have shown that the use of products containing this chemical can impair thyroid function and hinder normal breast development. Many hand sanitizers also contain triclosan and it has been shown to contribute to bacterial resistance.

Although most cosmetics contain some type of chemical, there is something you can do to avoid using them. Make sure the cosmetics you use contain only natural ingredients, preferably harvested from organically grown and GMO-free sources. What you put IN your body is important for optimal health, but what you put IN your body is just as important.