I do try to buy personal care products and cosmetics that aren’t packed with things that are bad for me and for the environment, but it isn’t always easy. With names I can barely pronounce, I’m just not sure what’s safe and what isn’t. I’ve compiled a ‘dirty dozen’ list to help you weed out those personal care products and cosmetics that are not good for you and your family.
Of course we want to you to be safe, so we’re giving away a wonderful Barefoot Venus hamper. Barefoot Venus is safe and healthy for you, your family and Mother Nature–it’s straight up natural. Simply like our Facebook or follow our Instagram page or leave a comment on the contest post there. Good luck!
BHA/BHT
After conducting tests on animals, the National Toxicology Program has concluded that BHA “is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen,” and has been shown to cause cancer in some cases.
Coal tar dyes
A known carcinogen which results from burning coal, coal tar dyes are known to cause skin tumors and neurological damage. Other cancers like those of the lung, bladder, kidney and digestive tract have also been linked to coal tar.
DEA- related ingredients
Known to cause eye and skin irritation and liver cancer and is a possible human carcinogen.
Parabens
These are ubiquitous and found in almost all cosmetic and personal care products. They are thought to cause endocrine disruption and breast cancer and can reduce reproductive function.
Petrolatum
The European Union classified this by-product of the petroleum industry as carcinogenic as it is known to cause cancer, skin irritations and allergies.
Siloxanes
The European Union classifies siloxanes as toxic to reproduction. Health Canada recognizes that siloxanes have a negative impact on the environment and bio-diversity.
Sodium Laureth Sulfate
While some products are safe, impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane can creep in during the manufacturing process. Ethylene is a known human carcinogen while dioxane is a suspected carcinogen.
Triclosan
This is one of the better studied additives, so we have more information on triclosan. Triclosan is known to weaken the immune system and have an adverse effect on the endocrine system and thyroid. A common ingredient in antibacterial products, many children who use these regularly have a chance of developing allergies, eczema and asthma.
Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
These are very common in cosmetics and personal care products like shampoo. They are known endocrine disruptors, can cause cancer and irritate skin.
Propelyn Glycol
Often used as a de-icing agent, it is thought to cause skin irritations, and kidney and liver damage.
Synthetic Colour
Made from coal tar or petroleum, synthetic colours are linked to ADHD in children, are a known carcinogen and can cause skin irritation.
Dibutyl phthalate
Found in cloves, Dibutyl phthalate was added to the list of suspected teratogens in November 2006. It is thought to be an endocrine disruptor. While no human studies have been conducted, it was shown to negatively affect development and reproduction in animals.