There are many products on the market these days promising anti-aging, natural and/or organic, fragrance free, etc. Many of these products have chemicals that are harmful to the skin and our environment. However, there is a growing awareness of safe cosmetics – those that are not only good for the environment (green) but are also good for our skin. One such agency for information is the The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.
Here is a list of chemicals to avoid cited by The Breast Cancer Fund, especially for those going through cancer where extra care is needed:
- Anti-aging creams with lactic, glycolic, AHA and BHA acids
- Hair dyes, especially dark permanent dyes
- Liquid hand soaps with triclosan/triclocarban
- Nail polish and removers with formaldehyde, DBP or toluene (which can be contaminated with benzene)
- Skin lighteners with hydroquinone
- Heavily scented products
- Moisturizers, ointments and skin creams with petrolatum (which can be contaminated with PAHs)
- Fungicides, shaving creams, hair gels and hair coloring containing nonylphenol
- Hair spray, gel, mousse or shaving cream that contains isobutane, a propellant that can be contaminated with 1,3-butadiene
- Sunscreens with UV filters that mimic estrogen
Whether you have cancer or not, finding quality, true organic skin care products is worth the search. Have a look at what you are currently using. Do your products fit within these guidelines? Your skin, whole body, and our environment will benefit if you switch.
