Are Chemicals in Your Body Care Really That Bad?
If you’re like most people, you probably use a variety of body care products on a daily basis. From shampoo to deodorant to lotion, these products can help us to look and feel our best. But what many people don’t realize is that many of these products contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed into our skin and wreak havoc on our health.
According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), a non-profit organization that researches and advocates for environmental health, the average person uses 9 personal care products every day, which contain over 126 unique ingredients. Many of these ingredients have been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, reproductive problems, and developmental disorders.
The Most Dangerous Chemicals to Avoid
Not all chemicals in body care products are harmful, but there are a few that are particularly dangerous and should be avoided. These include:
- Parabens: Parabens are a type of preservative that is used to prevent bacteria and mold from growing in body care products. However, parabens have been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, reproductive problems, and developmental disorders.
- Phthalates: Phthalates are a type of plasticizer that is used to make body care products soft and pliable. However, phthalates have been linked to a number of health problems, including reproductive problems, developmental disorders, and liver damage.
- Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS): SLS is a type of surfactant that is used to create lather in body care products. However, SLS has been linked to a number of health problems, including skin irritation, eye irritation, and respiratory problems.
- Triclosan: Triclosan is an antibacterial agent that is used in a variety of body care products, including toothpaste, deodorant, and hand soap. However, triclosan has been linked to a number of health problems, including thyroid problems, liver damage, and reproductive problems.
- Oxybenzone: Oxybenzone is a sunscreen ingredient that is used to protect the skin from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, oxybenzone has been linked to a number of health problems, including hormone disruption, reproductive problems, and developmental disorders.
How to Choose Safer Body Care Products
If you’re concerned about the chemicals in your body care products, there are a few things you can do to choose safer products:
- Read the labels: The first step to choosing safer body care products is to read the labels carefully. Avoid products that contain the harmful chemicals listed above.
- Look for natural ingredients: Natural ingredients are less likely to be harmful than synthetic ingredients. Look for products that contain ingredients such as aloe vera, shea butter, and coconut oil.
- Buy from reputable brands: Reputable brands are more likely to use safer ingredients in their products. Do some research on the brands you’re considering before you buy.
- Make your own products: If you’re really concerned about the chemicals in your body care products, you can make your own products using natural ingredients. There are many recipes available online for making your own shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, and other body care products.
Conclusion
The chemicals in your body care products can have a significant impact on your health. By choosing safer products, you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and protect your health.
