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Toxins in your bathroom?
Nowadays it is widely known that whatever is placed on the skin is readily absorbed and can enter the bloodstream
and subsequently enter the body’s deepest tissues in a mater of seconds. Although this is beyond dispute,
manufacturers of cosmetic and bathroom products still allow potentially toxic substances to be included in their
products; substances that are also used in the manufacturing industry with health warnings associated with them.
Listed below are some of the ingredients to watch out for.
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS): One of the commonest foaming and bulking agents used in cosmetics. It is also
used as an engine de-greaser, garage floor cleaner and car wash detergent. It readily penetrates the skin and can
accumulate in our bodily tissues causing damage and irritation to the skin. It also damages the immune system and
can cause hair loss with long-term use. It has been associated with the formation of cataracts, gum disease and
mouth ulcers.
P r o p yl e n e G l y c o l : A petrochemical solvent used in anti-f r e e z e, de-icer, paint, floor wax, brake and hydraulic fluid,
pet food and many cosmetic and personal care products. It is a humectant or moisture retainer and prevents things
drying out. It can make the skin feel smooth but beyond that it has no therapeutic benefits. It has been implicated
with contact dermatitis, kidney damage and liver abnormalities. It may cause skin rashes, gastro-intestinal
disturbances, nausea, headaches, vomiting and central nervous system depression.
Fluoride: It is found in most toothpaste products and has been shown to be poisonous when ingested over long
periods as it steadily accumulates in our tissues.
Talc: This is chemically similar to asbestos and is a known cancer causing substance. It is used as a dry lubricant
on surgical gloves, condoms, personal-care powders and many cosmetics. It clogs the pores and has been linked to
post-operative peritonitis and fibrous adhesions.
Formaldehyde: Used as a preservative in many cosmetics. It is known to cause eye, nose and throat infection s,
coughing, asthma attacks, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes, nose bleeds, headaches and dizziness.
Diethanolamine (DEA), Monoethanolamine (MEA): When found in products containing nitrites they can
chemically convert to form nitrosamines which are potentially carcinogenic. They are also known to be skin and eye
irritants. They are readily absorbed through the skin and can accumulate in organs.
Toluene: A very common solvent found in nail enamels, hair spray, hair gel, perfumes and fragrances. It triggers
asthma attacks and can even cause asthma in previously healthy people. It is a neurotoxin (adversely effects the
nervous system) and can cause liver damage and hormonal imbalance.
Aluminium: A metal found in antiperspirants and often suspected of being linked to Alzheimer’s disease. As a
neurotoxin it can actively interfere with brain functioning.
Peg Laureth (ethoxylated): This may contain dioxane which is an oestrogen mimic, endocrine disrupter and also
potentially carcinogen ic.
Luckily there are natural, alternative sources of personal-care and cosmetic products available on the market. They
can be obtained through companies such as Green People and Young Living (see ‘resources’ section).