My friend Eileen has a history of breast cancer that runs in her family and she recently found out that the face wash she has been using contains “propylparaben” aka “parabens” which unbeknownst to me is a carcinogen that is still commonly used in a wealth of beauty products, including face washes and underarm deodorants!
Apparently it is linked to Breast Cancer, especially if your already genetically predisposed to breast cancer in your family, like Eileen! Which is why she was so concerned. She’s not ordinarily the type to jump on the paranoia wagon.
Well it got me thinking ladies, what else are we exposed to and is there really “Cosmetic Safety” laws or is it all about the all mighty DOLLAR and profit margins. Beauty is a multi-billion dollar business after all, and whenever that much money is involved, well…
I say we take care of ourselves, because you know those money makers could care less.
Few ingredients have been assessed for long-term health impacts, but those that have—and are known or suspected to be toxic—are still allowed in cosmetics. Eight of the most problematic are:
1. MERCURY
Often listed as thimerosal on ingredient labels, mercury is a possible human carcinogen, and a human reproductive or developmental toxin.
Found in some eye drops, ointments and mascaras.
2. PLACENTA
Placenta produces progesterone, estrogen and other hormones that can interfere with the body’s normal hormone functions and can lead to serious health problems—like breast cancer—when used in cosmetics. Sometimes used in hair relaxers, moisturizers and toners.
3. LEAD ACETATE
This compound of lead is a known human reproductive and developmental toxin. Prohibited from use in cosmetics in the European Union. Found in some hair dyes and cleansers.
5. PETROCHEMICALS
These byproducts of crude oil (appearing on labels as petrolatum, mineral (oil and paraffin) may contain known or suspected human carcinogens as well as harmful breakdown products or impurities from manufacturing processes (such as 1,4-Dioxane), which are not listed on ingredient labels. Found in some hair relaxers, shampoos, anti-aging creams, mascaras, perfumes, foundations, lipsticks and lip balms.
6. PHTHALATES
These plasticizing chemicals are probable human reproductive or developmental toxins and endocrine disruptors. Two phthalates often used in cosmetics (dibutyl and diethylhexyl) have been banned in the European Union. Found in some nail polishes, fragrances and hair sprays.often used in cosmetics (dibutyl and diethylhexyl) have been banned in the European Union. Found in some nail polishes, fragrances and hair sprays.
7. HYDROQUINONE
A possible carcinogen and probable neurotoxin and skin sensitizer, hydroquinone can also cause a skin disease called ochronosis, which leaves irreversible black-blue lesions on skin. Found in some skin lightening products and moisturizers.
8. NANOPARTICLES
Extremely tiny particles which are largely untested and unlabeled in personal care products, capable of being absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Found in some eye shadows, bronzers, sunscreens and lotions.
So I don’t want you guys to become paranoid beauty shoppers but it is quite alarming to discover so many ingredients that are known carcinogens that are still allowed in beauty products. Especially since they seem to be in products that are in habitual items, that are used often like deodorant, face wash, hair dyes etc.
RED ALERT! - This is particularly alarming - two of the highest concerned cosmetics are marketed to African American women! Bad enough that products like skin lightening and hair straightening promote the Anglo-Saxon version of beauty on our Nubian sisters but turns out they are also ripe with carcinogens. Skin Deep report shows that some hair relaxers and skin lighteners contain ingredients such as hydroquinone, placenta and petroleum byproducts that are linked to cancer, reproductive and hormonal problems, and some of them sensitize the skin, which means that dangerous ingredients are more likely to penetrate into the body. Yet another reason to follow your own path of beauty, whether you continue down the Beyonce route or if you decide to go Erykah Badu.
Well here is what we can do to start…
1. Tell the Major Cosmetic Companies that we care what is in our beauty products and we want SAFE ingredients:
Get involved and read the full article from: Breast Cancer Fund “10 Ugly Truths Behind the Myth of Cosmetic Safety”
Well I usually immediately delete all the novellas and prayers my Mom sends me but this one sparked my interest because I have heard that heating up food in certain types of plastic or styrofoam releases toxins that when consumed are carcinogens. So it seemed plausible, here is the email I got from my Mom:
