It is a psychologically recognized fact that our body absorbs significant amounts of what we put on our skin within seconds. To me, with certified organic food quickly becoming the nutrition of choice by the health conscious amongst us, why would you accept anything less for your skin?
There are over 9,000 ingredients are allowed for use in personal care products, and the average woman wears at least 516 of them every day! The truth is, more than 80% have never been tested for safety. Of this small sample of chemicals that have been tested, many are now known or are strongly suspected of causing disease or cancer, genetic mutation or birth defects.
The 7 Carcinogens You Put On Your Body Before You Leave The House
A Press Release from the Cancer Prevention Coalition dated June 18, 2002, states, “Cancer and health risk experts just determined reviews that indicate mainstream cosmetics, and personal hygiene products pose the HIGHEST cancer risk exposure to the general public, even higher than smoking.”
Sunscreen
Its summertime and at least 70% of women use a sunscreen under their makeup. Unfortunately, sunscreens that contain Retinyl Palmitate, may actually increase the growth of cancerous skin tumors and lesions.(2) Most sunscreens aren’t safe or protective against skin cancer and have a long list of toxic chemicals difficult to pronounce. Oxybenzone is commonly used in sunscreens and is an endocrine disruptor. Today more than ever it’s important to be aware of carcinogenic sunscreens that both line the retail shelves of grocery stores, as well as big box stores. Several studies have actually confirmed that appropriate sun exposure actually helps prevent skin cancer and is our best source of vitamin D.
Solutions: There’s no reason to waste seventy dollars on a moisture cream with an SPF of 45 or 50. According to EWG, high-SPF products may not really be high-SPF. If you are going to be outside in the sun all day, I would recommend a clear zinc sunscreen, such as Babo Botanical. Spray sunscreens are never suggested.
Moisturizers
A study has found that topical applications of moisturizers such as Dermabase, Dermovan, Eucerin Original Moisturizing Cream, or Vanicream could increase skin cancer risk. Mineral oil has been linked to no less than twenty-three different diseases and health problems. Ingredients in body moisturizers can include: Arsenic, Coal Tars, Mineral oils, and Ionizing radiation and are linked to skin cancer.(4)
Solutions: Our skin eats. So why not choose to feed it organic, unrefined, cold pressed coconut oil?
Solutions: You can mix organic geranium essential oil with aluminum free baking soda, for a homemade deodorant. OR, you can purchase Nourish Organic cream deodorant with geranium. Please note: Uncontrollable body orders can be linked to poor gut bacteria and dehydration.
Deodorants
Consider the fact that petroleum products, aluminum, Parabens, and Triclosan can be found in deodorants. These prevalent toxins can make their homes in the fat cells of our breast and underarms, creating havoc in our internal environment. Deodorants can harm our central nervous system, metabolic system, and endocrine system. Additionally, the ingredients are linked to cancer.
Toothpaste
Toothpaste ingredients can include fluorides, sodium lauryl sulfate, saccharin, propylene glycol and several colored dyes. These have been linked to cancer and neurotoxicity.
Solutions: You can choose non-fluoride, non-chemical toothpaste. OR, you can use a dab of Dr Christopher’s Herbal Tooth & Gum Powder. OR, you can purchase Organic BR Brushing Rinse and add a drop of organic peppermint essential oil to your brush.
Lipsticks
It’s ironic that Revlon has a campaign called “Kisses for the Cure” that urges women to buy lipstick to fight breast cancer. The ingredients in toxic lipsticks can include Tar, Lead, Formaldehyde, Petroleum Distillates, Propylparaben, Polypropylene and more.
Skin Lighting Creams
Mercury can be found in excess over the legal limit in skin lightening creams.(6) Skin lightening creams are used on the face for hyper-pigmentation. Besides toxicities, they have never proven effective for long-lasting results.
Solutions: Make an appointment for a diamond peel at your local spa instead.
Hairsprays
Hairsprays contain chemicals that are environmentally risky. I’ve seen customers develop rashes on their forehead from frequent hairspray use. Common ingredients in hairsprays are shellac, Phthalates, Formaldehyde, denatured alcohol and propylene glycol. Hairsprays can potentially cause multiple chemical sensitivities. Because of their noxious fumes hairsprays can lead to lung damage.(8)
Solutions: I use a product called: Intelligent Nutrients hair balm. It’s not a spray, but it’s certified organic!
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