Personal care products are so popular that they have become a part of our lives. While using moisturizers, sprays, shaving creams and lotions we pay very less attention to the likely real-life risks associated with them.It is a common fact that consumer products contain toxins and harmful chemicals. The toxins, in few products, despite being in very less quantity can pose a real risk and the most amusing irony of it is that these products are presumed to be safe and so people are encouraged to use them further. Studies reveal chemicals in these products may cause long term health problems.
1. Antibacterial soaps and cleaners
The general notion is that if it is antibacterial, it is capable of killing germs. It is true for the soaps that are graded as healthcare soaps, which includes the ones used in hospitals. However, this notion does not hold true for the soaps and cleaners we use at home, which have a weak concentration. Research has proved that antibacterial soaps are similar to ordinary soaps in terms of their ability to reduce or prevent disease and bacteria. Far worse data shows that prolonged use may lead to surfacing of “superbugs”, which are antibiotic resistant. Another major issue is the appalling effect on the environment by the antibacterial chemicals of the soap, which enters the waterways and pose threat to marine life. According to the research by Rolf Halden, Associate Professor at Arizona State University’s Biodesign Institute, these chemicals have a harmful effect on aquatic life and algae. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), urines of 75 percent adults and children had traces of triclosan, an antibacterial ingredient. This was found more in higher income group people. It is advisable you do not buy products having triclosan or triclocarban. Avoid antibacterial products and wash hands and home with ordinary soap.
2. Phthalates
Common ingredients used in perfumes, hair sprays and deodorants. Phthalates are also found in plasticizers which are used in varnishes, plumbing, vinyl floors etc.
One study found that these phthalates in human bodies also function as hormones and its high doses disturbs hormone production. It was found in an animal study that hormone production is disturbed by phthalates taken as high dose.Though it was conveyed that small amount of it won’t cause any problem, but it was found that phthalates are found everywhere (in the dust particles of our home also). Recent facts reveal that contact with phthalates may lead to low sperm quality and count in humans. It may also lead to slight genital formation in baby boys if pregnant women are exposed to it. It is suggested that you avoid Phthalates in your personal care products . And be more cautious with expecting mother and children.
3. Parabens
Preservatives in cosmetics contain a chemical Parabens. They are used to prevent the growing of microbes. This is done so that bacteria and fungi do not contaminate the product. These are used mostly in foods, drugs, moisturizers, hair care and shaving products.Parabens operate, in the body, like the hormone estrogen. It has been found in breast cancer tumors but studies have not shown that parabena causes cancer. In order to avoid this chemical avoid products which have the word butylparaben, methylparaben, propylparaben, or words with “paraben” in the ingredient list.
4. Musks
Since centuries people have been using scents of a male musk deer called ‘musk’. It is one of the favorite fragrance loved by both men and women. Nowadays synthetic musk fragrance is being made. It is also known as white musk in the perfume industry. It comes from chemicals made in laboratories ‘nitro musks’ and ‘polycyclic musks’. The chemicals that are used to make the musk fragrance accumulate in the environment and may cause tissue damage. To avoid them you may have to ask for the complete listing of the ingredients as manufacturers hide the chemical name musk under the name of “fragrance”. Or you can opt for fragrance free products.