WHAT CAN IT DO TO YOUR HEALTH

WHAT CAN IT DO TO YOUR HEALTH 

WHAT CAN IT DO TO YOUR HEALTH 

BHA and BHT can cause allergic skin reactions. BHA is also a hormone disrupter—it mimics the natural action of hormones in the body (in this case estrogen). This can raise the risk of estrogen-dependent cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer. As such BHA and BHT are potential carcinogens.

In low doses, these preservatives can cause eye and skin irritations and can trigger allergies. In larger doses, formaldehyde fumes are carcinogenic.

Parabens can cause allergic reactions and skin rashes. Parabens easily absorb into the skin; studies show they are estrogen mimics that have been found in samples of breast tumors.

Studies show it is neurotoxic, skin drying or irritating, and potentially toxic for the liver.

Research suggests that it can interfere with the body’s own natural moisturizing mechanism, which over time leads to dryness and chapping.

Studies show that, like paraffinum liquid, it can interfere with the body’s own natural moisturizing mechanism, which over time leads to dryness and chapping.

Studies have linked these to allergic reactions, hives, and eczema. Propylene glycol can be derived from natural sources (see box, opposite). PEG compounds may be contaminated with the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane.

If sensitive people inhale particles of this plastic-like substance, it can damage their lungs. Used topically, it can prevent the skin from “breathing.”

These detergents can cause eye irritation, scalp “scurf” (similar to dandruff), skin rashes, and allergic reactions. Sodium Laureth sulfate may be contaminated with the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane.

Many synthetic colors are carcinogenic. Exceptions are mineral-based colors (see box, opposite).

Perfumes are neurotoxic and can cause headaches, mood swings, depression, dizziness, and skin irritation. 

They are also very common triggers of asthma attacks.

Studies show it can cause developmental and reproductive abnormalities.  It is toxic to the liver and kidneys.

Some siloxanes can disrupt hormones, which means they are potential carcinogens as well as reproductive toxins.

Research shows that triclosan is a hormone disruptor. It is also implicated in causing resistance to commonly used antibiotics.

This chemical can dry the skin and cause redness, itching, and swelling. In sensitive individuals, it can cause blistering.

MIT has caused an epidemic of skin reactions, which has provoked dermatologists to demand that it be removed from toiletries and cosmetics.  It is also a neurotoxin and potential carcinogen.