Look out for these before you purchase any personal products!! Isopropanol A solvent and penetration enhancer, found in make-up, shampoo, moisturisers and nail polish. It is neurotoxic, skin drying/irritating and potentially liver toxic. Methyl-, Propyl-, Butyl- and Ethyl-Paraben The most widely used preservatives in the cosmetic industry. Parabens can cause allergic reactions and skin rashes and are easily absorbed into the body. Laboratory studies show that parabens have an estrogenic effect and there is concern that in vulnerable individuals this could act as a trigger for cancer. Paraffinum liquidum Also known as mineral oil, this is a cheap, abundant ingredient found in face creams, make-up, body lotions and baby oils. It does not add moisture or nourish the skin. Instead it can interfere with the body’s own natural moisturizing mechanism, which over time can lead to dryness and chapping. Petrolatum Also known as petroleum jelly, this mineral oil derivative is used for its emollient properties and can cause similar problems to Paraffinum liquidium. Found in lipsticks and balms, hair care products, moisturizers, depilatories and deodorants. Propylene glycol Can be found in moisturisers, deodorants, make-up, depilatories and soaps. It can be derived from natural sources but is usually a synthetic petrochemical mix. It is added to keep the product moist and acts as a penetration enhancer – driving other ingredients deeper into the skin. It has been linked to allergic reactions, hives and eczema. Ingredients such as PEG (polyethylene glycol) or PPG (polypropylene glycol) are related synthetics. PVP/VA copolymer A plastic-like substance used in hair sprays, styling aids, make-up, fake tans, toothpaste and skin creams. Inhaled particles can damage the lungs of sensitive people. Used topically it can prevent the skin from ‘breathing’. Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate Detergents commonly used in shampoos, body washes and toothpaste. Some labels list this ingredient as being derived “from coconuts”. However producing sodium lauryl/laureth sulphate requires the addition of petroleum-derived ingredients and the finished product is far removed from its vegetable origins. These detergents can cause eye irritation, scalp scurf similar to dandruff, skin rashes and allergic reactions. Synthetic colours Denoted in Britain and the rest of the EU by the prefix CI followed by several numbers. Most toiletries and cosmetics contain colours even though they add nothing to the effectiveness of the product. Many synthetic colours can be carcinogenic and so are best avoided. Exceptions are mineral based colours which are denoted with the prefix CI 75… or CI 77… which indicate mineral or other naturally-derived colours. Parfum Around 95% of the fragrances used in toiletries and cosmetics are petrochemically-based. Often they are made up of dozens of separate ingredients. Perfumes are neurotoxic and can cause headaches, mood swings, depression, dizziness and skin irritation. They are also very common triggers of asthma attacks. Toluene Used as a solvent in cosmetics, especially nail polish and dyes. A toxic, volatile chemical that may irritate the skin and respiratory tract and cause mild anaemia and liver damage with prolonged exposure.
Posted on: Thu, 20 Jun 2013 00:17:57 +0000
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