19 Oct
Have you looked lately at the toxic ingredients that are in your cosmetics and skin care products?
Posted in Health & Fitness on 19.10.09
Author: Geri Stogsdill
Source: articleage.com
Have you ever examined the ingredients listed on the labels of your cosmetics or skin care? Do you know what are the ingredients? What you may not realize is that many of the products of skincare and cosmetics you are buying contain ingredients that are not only harmful to the skin, but also their long-term health. Many of these ingredients are carcinogens (cancer causing substances) and are used by the cosmetic industry simply because they are cheap! Harmful ingredients commonly found in skin care products and cosmetics The following are just some of the synthetic chemicals that have been identified by scientific studies that may be harmful to our health. Sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS) Often described as being "derived from coconut" to disguise their toxic nature, these chemicals are commonly used in shampoos, toothpaste, foaming facial and body cleansers and bubble baths . SLS and ALS can cause severe skin irritation and is easily absorbed into the body, accumulate in the brain, heart, lungs and liver, causing health problems long term. SLS and ALS may also cause cataracts and prevent children's eyes are conducted properly. Paraben Preservatives Parabens are widely used in cosmetics, deodorants, skin care and baby products to prolong its life. They are known to be highly toxic and have caused rashes and allergic reactions. Recent scientific studies in the UK found a strong link between the use of parabens and the increasing rate of breast cancer in women. The researchers found a high concentration of parabens in 90% of breast tumors examined. Propylene Glycol Found in many beauty creams, cosmetics and cleaning products, propylene glycol can cause skin rashes and contact dermatitis, and has been shown to cause damage to kidneys and liver. Isopropyl Alcohol Alcohol is used as a solvent in many products for skin care. Cause skin irritation and strips the skin of its natural acid mantle, promoting the growth of bacteria, fungi and viruses. It can also cause premature skin aging. DEA (Diethanolamine), TEA (Triethanolamine) and MEA (Monoethanolamine) These substances are harsh solvents and detergents used in cosmetics and face and body creams as an emollient. They can cause allergic reactions, and prolonged use of products based on DEA (eg Cocamide DEA) have been linked to an increased incidence of liver and kidney cancer. Aluminum A common ingredient in antiperspirants, aluminum has been linked to Alzheimer's disease. mineral oil from petroleum (crude oil), mineral oil is commonly found as a main ingredient in face creams and cosmetics. Baby oil is 100% mineral oil! It coats the skin like a plastic film, clogging pores and leave skin of the elimination of toxins, which can lead to acne and other skin disorders. Other ingredients are petroleum-based paraffin wax, paraffin oil and vaseline. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) used as a thickener in products for skin care and cosmetics, PEG interfere with the natural moisture balance of the skin, causing an increase in aging and leaving the skin vulnerable to bacteria. Talc Talc is a mineral used in talcum powders and cosmetic powders. Scientific studies have shown that routine application of talc in the genital area is related to a period of three to four times more in the development of ovarian cancer. Inhaling cosmetic powders containing talc may be harmful to health in the long term. How to avoid these toxins examine the product labels for cosmetics and skin care carefully, and learn to recognize ingredients that are harmful to skin and health. Many websites have lists of potentially harmful ingredients in addition to those mentioned above (eg Environmental Working Group). Do not be fooled by the words 'natural' or 'organic' on the front label. Many products contain at least one or two natural or organic ingredients, but can also contain harmful synthetic chemicals as well. Whenever possible, choose products with 100% natural ingredients like essential oils and herbs. Your skin will thank you!