Harmful Chemicals in Everyday Cosmetics

Harmful Chemicals in Everyday Cosmetics

Many personal care products contain chemicals that may pose health risks. Understanding these ingredients and their regulatory status can help you make safer choices

1. Aluminum Zirconium Compounds

  • Function: Used in antiperspirants to control sweat and odour.

  • Regulatory Status: The European Commission has issued opinions on the safety of aluminum compounds in cosmetics, including antiperspirants.

  • Health Concerns: Potential links to breast cancer and Alzheimer's disease, though evidence is inconclusive.

2. Butylated HydroxyToluene (BHT)

  • Function: Acts as an antioxidant and preservative.

  • Regulatory Status: The UK has restricted the use of BHT in cosmetic products.

  • Health Concerns: Possible endocrine disruptor and skin irritant.

3. Parabens (e.g., Methylparaben, Propylparaben)

  • Function: Common preservatives in cosmetics.

  • Regulatory Status: The EU has banned certain parabens and restricted others in cosmetic products.

  • Health Concerns: Potential endocrine disruptors and links to breast cancer.

4. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives

  • Function: Used as a preservative and disinfectant.

  • Regulatory Status: Formaldehyde is banned in cosmetics in the EU.

  • Health Concerns: Known carcinogen and respiratory irritant

5. Phthalates (e.g., Dibutyl Phthalate)

  • Function: Used as a plasticizer and fragrance fixative.

  • Regulatory Status: Certain phthalates are banned in cosmetics in the EU.

  • Health Concerns: Potential endocrine disruptors and developmental toxins.

6. Triclosan

  • Function: Antibacterial agent.

  • Regulatory Status: Restricted in cosmetics in the EU and Canada.

  • Health Concerns: Potential endocrine disruptor and contributor to antibiotic resistance.

7. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) / Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

  • Function: Surfactants used for cleansing and foaming.

  • Regulatory Status: Permitted in cosmetics but subject to concentration limits in the EU.

  • Health Concerns: Can cause skin irritation and dryness.

8. Talc

  • Function: Absorbs moisture and adds texture.

  • Regulatory Status: Talc is permitted in cosmetics but must be free from asbestos contamination.

  • Health Concerns: Potential link to ovarian cancer and respiratory issues if contaminated with asbestos.

9. Fragrance (Parfum)

  • Function: Adds scent to products.

  • Regulatory Status: Not required to disclose individual components; may contain allergens.

  • Health Concerns: Can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation.

10. Hydroquinone

  • Function: Skin lightening agent.

  • Regulatory Status: Restricted in cosmetic products in the EU.

  • Health Concerns: Potential carcinogen and skin irritant.

 

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