Look out for toxins when choosing skincare products
Individuals keen to reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals may want to consider switching to organic skincare products and spend more time looking at ingredient lists.
Author of a book outlining the potentially harmful components that can be found in cosmetics Stacy Malkan described in an interview with the Washington Post how to make beauty regimes healthier.
"There are certain product types that are much more toxic than others," she stated, adding that while some are ok if used infrequently, others should be avoided altogether.
For example, use of hair dyes that contain coal tar was strongly advised against, as this is said to contain possible cancer-causing properties and is known as a carcinogen.
Carcinogens are barred from use in certain countries, as they are substances that can alter a cell's natural DNA makeup, which increases the risk of cancer developing.
According to the American Cancer Society, not all carcinogens cause the disease every time and it depends on the length and level of exposure to a substance, as well as a person's individual genes.
In order to reduce risk of absorbing such chemicals into the body, it was suggested that ladies streamline the personal care cosmetics they apply on a regular basis and choose products that do not feature these ingredients.
Director of the Environmental Health Education Center at the University of Maryland School of Nursing Barbara Sattler recommended steering clear of lotions or perfumes containing synthetic fragrances.
She suggested these may contain chemicals such as phthalates that cause allergies and irritation.
Another tip was to read all ingredient lists thoroughly and to look out for propyl paraben, ureas, butyl paraben, methyl parabem and triclosan.
Opting for organic skincare products that are certified by the Soil Association can considerably reduce the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals on a daily basis.
Posted by Shannon Davies
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