GUARDING YOUR GLOW: HOW HARMFUL CHEMICALS IN PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS AFFECT YOUR WELL-BEING AND LONGEVITY
THE TOXINS AROUND US
There has been unprecedented growth in chronic disease in the United States since 1990, with four categories of disease – autoimmune, neurological, metabolic and inflammatory – virtually exploding during this period, with similar increases in reproductive and psychiatric disorders. At least 36 chronic diseases and disorders have more than doubled in the past generation, twenty have tripled, and many of these diseases were unknown in the 1980’s.7 Many of these new and increasingly common diseases have a root cause through exposure to environmental toxins, many of which are contained in skin care, personal care, and home care products. Our skin is the largest organ in our body and the one that has the greatest interaction with the external environment. As such, it is voluntarily and involuntarily exposed to a wide range of chemicals from natural environmental sources, as well as those derived from human activities, all of which are present in our food, water, and a multitude of products we use on a daily basis. In light of the frequent and intimate nature of the contact on skin with skin care and personal care products, it is important to understand the potential for harm deriving from the use of potentially dangerous substances in their formulations. Recently, popular athletic clothing brands have been found to have high levels of the hormone-disrupting chemical BPA in their fiber. BPA has been linked to developmental and health problems in children, and to obesity, diabetes, ADHD and other toxic threats in adults.3 Moreover, while all ingredients in cosmetic products must meet certain regulatory requirements, the FDA does not pre-approve, test or investigate the safety of these products or ingredients, unless it’s a color additive.1,9 Rather, it is the cosmetic companies are expected to ensure their products are safe before engaging in any form of marketing and look to an industry-appointed and funded panel of experts called the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) to periodically review the safety of cosmetic ingredients.2 The Personal Care Products Council has found that trace levels of PFAS are added to cosmetics to “condition and smooth the skin or for product consistency and texture” and that trace amounts of harmful chemicals not intentionally added to products were not required to be listed on the label9 or not required to be listed on the label because they are a component of a trade secret.8
EXPOSURE TO TOXINS IN EVERYDAY PRODUCTS
The impact of toxins on our well-being is a growing concern. In the United States, the average woman uses 12 cosmetic products, which collectively contain around 168 chemical ingredients. Alarmingly, many of these substances may not be entirely safe for human use. Compounding this issue, an average of seven new industrial chemicals receive approval from the U.S. government daily, and a staggering 80% of them gain approval within a mere three weeks or less, often with minimal or no safety testing conducted2.
These industrial chemicals frequently find their way into the fundamental formulations of cosmetics and personal care products, encompassing items such as soaps, makeup, lotions, skincare products, deodorants, and toothpaste. What’s more, it’s estimated that over 60% of the substances that come into contact with your skin can be absorbed into your bloodstream. An eye-opening collaborative study involving the University of Notre Dame, Indiana University, and the University of Toronto revealed that more than 50% of cosmetics on the market contain significant concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Even at minuscule doses, PFAS ingredients have been associated with severe repercussions for human health, including various forms of cancer, disruptions to the immune system, and adverse effects on both developmental and reproductive systems5.
Further research has brought to light concerning findings. Hazardous levels of mercury have been detected in skin lightening and anti-aging creams, chemicals used in hair dyes and straighteners have been linked to breast and uterine cancer, fragrances in soaps and shampoos have been associated with compromised semen quality and fertility issues, and a wide range of health problems in children, spanning learning and developmental disorders, obesity, and asthma, have been attributed to the chemicals found in these products10. Additionally, cosmetics have been identified as potential culprits behind abnormal dermatitis and hair damage8.
Even seemingly innocuous products like toothpaste, classified as cosmetics rather than pharmaceutical compounds, have their own set of concerns. The industrial toxic waste by-product fluoride, which they contain, has been linked to various issues, including bone damage, cataracts, and developmental disabilities like low IQ in children, even when used at the “safe” levels recommended by dental health authorities12. While most skincare and personal care items undergo testing to ensure they do not cause immediate issues, they are rarely, if ever, subjected to assessments for potential long-term health consequences5.
When comparing products that are washed off the skin to leave-on products like makeup, lotions, and creams, the latter can have an even greater negative impact on health1. Many ingredients commonly found in cosmetics, skincare, and personal care products— particularly those used for UV protection and fragrance—are known endocrine disruptors and/or recognized human carcinogens. Startlingly, some toxic components can be swiftly absorbed through the skin and detected in breast milk within just 1-2 hours of application1. Even in small doses, repeated exposure to various toxins over years and decades can culminate in a significant and deleterious impact on personal health, overall wellness, and longevity1.
NAVIGATING COSMETIC INGREDIENT SAFETY
Consumers can make more informed decisions about cosmetics by being aware of harmful and questionable substances, which can directly impact their overall health and longevity. Cosmetic products encompass everyday items like moisturizers, shampoos, conditioners, toothpaste, deodorants, serums, masks, hair dyes, colorants, nail polishes, makeup removers, skin toners, eye and face serums, and perfumes. As a starting point and by no means exhaustive listing, by scrutinizing product labels for the following ingredients, consumers can take significant steps to mitigate the potential health risks associated with toxic chemicals:
1. **BHA (Butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene):** These compounds, used as antioxidants and preservatives in face moisturizers, are classified as human carcinogens and are known to mimic estrogen, leading to hormone imbalances in both men and women 9, 2, 5.
2. **Parabens and Phthalates:** Widely used as preservatives in cosmetics, these compounds can also be found in fragrances but may not be listed if considered trade secrets. They can easily penetrate the skin and have been linked to endocrine disruption, skin irritation, allergies, and harm to the human reproductive system 2, 9.
3. **Coal Tar Dyes:** Originally derived from coal byproducts, modern coal tar dyes are made from petroleum. They can cause mild to severe allergic reactions and are recognized as human carcinogens. Additionally, coal tar can be contaminated with low levels of heavy metals and aluminum2, 9.
4. **Petroleum Jelly:** Found in many moisturizers and hair products for locking in moisture, petroleum jelly is derived from mineral oil and petroleum distillates. It may contain additional toxic compounds like polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)2, 9.
5. **Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives:** These compounds, used in hair smoothing products and as preservatives, can prevent bacteria formation. Whether absorbed through the skin or off-gassed from cosmetics, they have been associated with skin, eye, and lung irritation and are classified as known human carcinogens 2, 9.
6. **Undisclosed Fragrances:** Synthetic fragrances are present in deodorants, perfumes, body washes, and lotions, and their underlying formula ingredients are not required to be disclosed due to trade secret considerations. Even products labeled “Fragrance-free” or “Unscented” may contain fragrance with masking agents. These fragrances can contain untested irritants and potent endocrine disruptors 2.
7. **Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Compounds:** Used as moisture carriers, thickeners, softeners, and solvents in cosmetics, PEG compounds release ethylene oxide and dioxane. They have been linked to various types of cancer, severe irritation of the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs, as well as damage to the human nervous system2, 9.
8. **Triclosan:** Known for its strong antibacterial properties, triclosan is found in deodorants, hand sanitizers, face washes, laundry detergent, and first-aid antiseptics. It can easily penetrate the skin and disrupt natural hormone functioning 2, 9.
9. **Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS):** Commonly used as an emulsifier and foaming agent in personal care, skin care, and cleansing products, SLS is present in body washes, soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, and laundry detergent. It has been associated with cancer, neurotoxicity, skin irritation, and endocrine disruption 9, 4.
10. **Aluminum:** Used in deodorants, anti-perspirants, and as an adjuvant in vaccines, aluminum has been linked to attention loss, learning and memory deficits, and elevated aluminum content in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease. It also exhibits estrogenic properties and has been associated with breast cancer 6, 11.
While the mentioned ingredients pose significant concerns, it’s crucial to recognize that many other potentially harmful substances may lurk in cosmetic products. Continued vigilance and consumer education are essential to safeguarding personal health and well-being when navigating the complex landscape of cosmetic ingredient safety.
NAVIGATING COSMETIC INGREDIENTS: PROTECTING HEALTH AND LONGEVITY
In conclusion, understanding the safety of cosmetic ingredients is paramount in safeguarding personal health and promoting longevity. The significant rise in chronic diseases and the potential link to environmental toxins underscore the importance of informed choices. With numerous harmful substances prevalent in everyday cosmetic products, consumers must exercise vigilance.
The referenced toxic ingredients, from BHA and parabens to undisclosed fragrances, pose genuine threats to human health. Recognizing these dangers empowers individuals to make healthier cosmetic choices, thereby mitigating potential risks.
In this endeavor,8 highlights the potential of functional cosmetics to enhance therapeutic effects and expedite relief from toxin-induced symptoms, contributing to overall wellness. By prioritizing safety and scrutinizing product labels, consumers can navigate the intricate realm of cosmetic ingredients, taking proactive steps toward preserving health and maximizing longevity. As we embrace the path to wellness, informed choices in personal care, skin care and home care products become a vital part of the journey.
REFERENCES
1 A. Panico, F. S. (2019). Skin safety and health prevention: an overview of chemicals in cosmetic products. Journal of Preventative Medicine.
2 Amy Myers, M. (n.d.). Ingredient To Avoid In Skin Care Products. Retrieved from Amy Myersmd.com: https://amymyersmd.com/article/ingredients-to-avoid-in-skincare
3 Athrappully, N. (2020, October 17). Popular Athletic Clothign Brands Have High Levels of Hormone-Disrupting Chemical BPA: Watchdog Group. Retrieved from The Epoch Times: www.theepochtimes.com
4 EWG.org. (2023). EWG.org. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ingredients/706110- SODIUM_LAURYL_SULFATE/
5 Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). Toxic Beauty - Are your personal careproducts putting you at risk? Retrieved from Harvard Medical School: https://health.harvard.edu/womens-health/toxic-beauty
6 Katrin Klotz*, D. r. (2017, September 19). The health effects of aluminum exposure. Retrieved from Deutsches Artzeblatt International: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5651828/
7 Lear, R. (2018, August). The Root Casue in the dramatic rise of Chronic Disease. Retrieved from ResearchGate/Brown University.
8 Liang, W. (2020). Toxicity and Effect of Chemicals in Skin Care Products on Human Health. Retrieved from IOP COnference Series: Earth and Environmental Science.
9 Lopez, I. (2021, September 9). Are Harmful Chemicals Hiding in Your Cosmetics? Retrieved from www.WebMd.com: https://www.webmd.com/beauty/features/harmful-chemicals-in-your-cosmetics
10 Sheikh, K. (2023, February 24). Many Personal Care Products Contain Harmful Chemicals. Here’s What to Do About It. Retrieved from The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/15/well/ live/personal-care-products-chemicals.html
11 Valdesolo, F. (2023, April 11). How Worried Should I Be About Aluminum in My Deodorant? Retrieved from THe Cut: https://www.thecut.com/2023/04/is-aluminum-in-deodorant-bad.html
12 Zelko, F. (2023, October). In The Teeth of History: Dental Decay in the Longue Duree. Retrieved from The Racehl Carson Center Review: http://doi.org/10.5282/rcc-springs-4806
ABOUT THE AUTHORS
Matthew Frederick
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Matthew Frederick is President and CEO of Nobiesse Laboratories. His work is focused on exploring the boundaries of wellness, health and longevity and to developing high-quality, personalized products and services that can help people to live longer, happier, more fulfilled lives. He created Nobiesse to address a fundamental lack of quality Do-No-Harm products in the consumer market and to lead a charge to transform broken consumer care, medical and financial models around the world. Frederick holds an BS from Northeastern University and has completed the Executive Development Program at The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He is based in Parsippany, New Jersey.
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