BLOG: Talking about Safe Cosmetics

Before this week's topic I never really thought about what was in my beauty products. After this topic I have taken a serious look at what I use on my body. Check out what I found.

Perfumes and Fragrances

Phthalates are a class of chemicals linked to hormone disruption, meaning it can effect development and fertility. Most fragrances do not list phthalates on their labels, but they do list them as "fragrance".
Neurotoxins can also be found in fragrances. Neurotoxins are chemicals that harm the brain. Dating as far back as 1986, the U.S. National Academy of Sciences identified fragrance ingredients as one of six categories of neurotoxins that should be thoroughly investigated. Research has yet to be conducted.

Lipsticks 

According to a study by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, 61 percent of lipsticks contain lead. Lead is a neurotoxin that can cause learning, language and behavioral problems. No level of lead is safe!

Bath Products

Even baby shampoo contains cancer-causing chemicals! In March 2009 results of a study conducted by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found two carcinogens 1, 4 dioxane and formaldehyde in dozens of bath products that both babies and kids use. Both chemicals are known carcinogens. Formaldehyde can also cause skin rashes in sensitive children.

Nail Products and Salons

Nail polish, polish removers and artificial nail products contain numerous toxic chemicals. These chemicals are known or suspected to cause cancer, reproductive harm, asthma and other health effects. Very few studies have been conducted on the effects of these chemicals. Many salon workers have reported decreased attention and processing skills as well as increases in asthma and other respiratory issues.

With all that said you can go to safecosmetics.org to find out if your beauty products are safe. I just searched my favorite shampoo and found out its very hazardous! Guess who is changing shampoo?

-Summer, WE THE FUTURE Blogger