Three Important Chemicals You Need To Know About

Did you know the beauty and personal care industry is highly unregulated? That means everyday products are filled with toxic chemicals that your body absorbs and reacts to with symptoms. That’s why it’s important to review ingredient labels. Read on for details on some of the most popular ones. They hide in places you’d least expect.

Where To Find Them, and What They Can Do

Watch Out For: Formaldehyde

Research indicates formaldehyde is a human carcinogen. As a preservative, many cosmetic companies use it to help prevent bacteria growth.

Found In : Nail polish, body wash, shampoo, conditioner, cleansers, eyeshadow

Symptoms It Causes: skin allergies, decreased immune system, linked to cancer

Watch Out For: Toluene

Derived from petroleum or coal tar, toluene is a potent solvent that can dissolve paint. You may see it listed as benzene, toluene, phenyl methane, or methyl benzene.

Found In: Hair color/bleaching products and nail polish

Symptoms It Causes: nausea, skin irritation, respiratory system issues, immune system toxicity, and developmental damage to a fetus

Watch Out For: Sunscreen Chemicals

While they absorb ultraviolet light, sunscreen chemicals are also endocrine disruptors. They’re often listed as benzophenone, PABA, avobenzone, homosalate, and ethoxycinnmate.

Symptoms It Causes: developmental malformations, reproductive issues, disturbance in the immune and nervous system function, and increased cancer risk