Parabens and Sulphates
(what they DON'T tell you on labels)
Parabens are found in most beauty products.
Their purpose? To preserve the shelf-life of the products themselves. Without these, "preservatives" the products wouldn't last as long as the marketer would like. However, the consumers are left blinded by the fact that these preservatives are indeed toxins to the human body.
Ethylparaben, methylparaben, propylparaben and butylparaben are most commonly used.
Isopropylparaben, Isobutylparaben and benzylparaben are less often used.
Studies have shown that parabens mimic the female hormone estrogen and have been linked to the development of several forms of breast cancers.
As for males, scientific studies show that parabens affect the secretion of testosterone and functionality of the reproductive system.
There are other preservatives that are naturally derived however, that these manufacturers can use instead. They are just as inexpensive but 100% less dangerous.
These include: Vitamin E, citric acid, grapefruit seed extract, etc.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, Sodium Laureth Sulphate or SLS are also dangerous chemicals found in most beauty products. This inexpensive foaming product is found in most shampoos and facial cleansers as well as bath or shower gels.
These SLS ingredients have been found to be extreme irritants to one's skin and hair because it strips us of our natural protective oils.
However, the main concern over these ingredients is not the dryness they bring to our skin, but that when mixed with many other different ingredients, these Sulphates can create nitrates (nitrosamines) which are carcinogens. *They can cause cancer*
How do you protect yourself?
READ THE LABELS OF YOUR BEAUTY PRODUCTS CAREFULLY!
Some products may list that they are organic but in reality they include the same sulphates that are harming you in just like in other shampoos or products.
Do your research.. it's well worth it if you know you are protecting your body from harm's way.
Be safe and stay green!
- E
