When we choose between skincare products, we often look for products that promise good and fast results. Regardless of what is written in the benefits of this product, its quality and efficacy is the key to the significance of its components. Unlike foods and medications that require clarification of harmful benefits and side effects, cosmetics are not required to advertise harmful products and carcinogens they may contain. Are there harmful ingredients in your cosmetics? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) bans certain ingredients, foods or medications that may harm health, but what goes on in your creams and cosmetics is left to the discretion of each company. The biggest concerns are skin irritation and lack of proper cosmetic hygiene. However, the American Cancer Society says that the health risks related to long-term exposure to toxins in general whether from harmful cosmetics or other products cannot be completely ruled out. In addition to cancer, other concerns that may result from the use of inappropriate cosmetics include:
Contact dermatitis, or skin irritation.
Congenital defects in pregnant women.
Hormonal disorder in children and adolescents. #1: Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) Concern : acne (especially cystic acne) around the mouth and chin, skin irritation, canker sores, and disruption of the skin’s natural barrier function and oil. Found in: shampoo, body wash, foundation, face wash, mouthwash, and toothpaste.
#2: Diethanolamine (DEA) Concerns: Skin irritation - pollution concerns. Found in: A variety of facial makeup and hair products such as shampoo and conditioner. #3: Diethyl Phthalate (DEP), Dimethyl phthalate (DMP) & Dibutyl phthalate (DBP) Concerns: Damage to the male reproductive system. Found in: nail polish, hair sprays, perfumes, soaps and shampoos. #4: Formaldehyde Concerns: Carcinogenic, skin irritation, high rates of skin allergy reactions, rashes. Found in: Nail products, mascara, hair gel, baby shampoo, body soap, colorful cosmetics. #5: Polyethylene/ PEGS Concerns: frequently contaminated with 1, 4-dioxane, which is considered carcinogenic. Found in: scrubs, body wash, makeup, toothpaste. #6: Parabens Concern: endocrine disruptors that mimic estrogen. Found in: makeup – skin moisturizers-shampoos – conditioners – facial cleansers-shaving products. #7: Sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate Concerns: Skin irritation - a polluter. Found in: toothpaste, shampoo, hand soap. #8: Triclosan Concerns: disruption of thyroid and reproductive hormones - might contribute to the development of antibiotic resistant germs - might be harmful to the immune system. Found in: oral care products-shaving products – creams-colored cosmetics. #9: Siloxane (ingredients ending with siloxane or Methicone) Concern: hormonal disorder. Found in: hair products – deodorants. #10: Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) Concerns: Skin irritation - hormone disorder. Found In: Lipstick - eye shadow – exfoliants – perfume.