Most of the hair and beauty products found on the shelves today are filled with dangerous, toxic chemicals that can be extremely harmful to your health. It seems like an oxymoron to be skeptical of the things we put in our bodies and not be concerned about what we are putting on our bodies. Just like there are toxic ingredients found in foods that are still approved by the dubious FDA, the same goes for our hair and beauty products. A lot of these ingredients have been linked to various cancers, organ failure, coma, and other health woes. Just in case you aren't sure what ingredients you should look out for, here are 6 of the most commonly used chemicals found in hair and beauty products that you should avoid.
1. PROPYLENE GLYCOL
Propylene Glycol is the active ingredient most commonly used in hair products and Antifreeze. It is used as a humectant, or a moisturizing ingredient in many shampoos, conditioners, gels, and various other hair styling products. Propylene Glycol is so toxic that the EPA requires its workers to wear gloves when handling the chemical yet it is so commonly found in various hair styling products that we apply to our hair, scalp and skin. The chemical has been linked to disruptions of the liver, kidneys and the brain. Propylene Glycol has also been linked to new cases of dermatitis. This is one ingredient you may want to stay away from when choosing your hair products.2. P-PHENYLEDEDDIAMINE
P-Phenyledediamine is an organic compound used in various hair dyes and some black hennas to help prolong color wear and prevent it from fading. The compound is also used in textile dyes, industrial pigments and rubber chemicals. It is commonly associated with causing skin reactions and diseases with regular exposure. According to the EPA, p-Phenyledediamine has been responsible for causing severe dermatitis, eye irritation to the point of excessive tearing, asthma, tremors, vertigo,renal failure, gastritis, convulsions and even coma.3. PARABENS
Parabens are commonly found in various hair and beauty products, and are used as a preservative to extend the product's shelf-life. Parabens can be found on labels under the various names of propylparaben, methylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben. Experts warn against parabens for one because they have the ability to mimic the hormone estrogen, which contributes to the development of breast cancer. In various breast cancer cases, high concentrations of parabens have been found in cancerous breast tissue. European nations have even banned the use of parabens in their hair and beauty products and have labeled it as a carconogenic ingredient.4. CYCLOPENTASILOXAN
For all my heat loving naturals, you especially want to be on the lookout for this toxic chemical. Cyclopentasiloxan is commonly found in heat and thermal protection sprays. It is also used in hair conditioners. When used under high heat, the chemical releases formaldehyde which is another toxic chemical in itself. Formaldehyde is a hazardous chemical that has been linked to cancer, skin disease, respiratory problems and irritation to the eyes, skin, and nose. According to the Environmental Working Group, the chemical is toxic, hazardous to the skin and mucous membranes, irritating to asthma sufferers, and causes congestion. Cyclopentasiloxan has been linked to organ system toxicity, endocrine disruption and the formation of cancerous tumors when used moderately.5. DEA, MEA and TEA
These three ingredients are commonly known hormone disruptors that are mostly found in shampoos. There have been studies to prove that these chemicals are easily absorbed through the largest organ on your body- the skin which also includes your scalp. There have also been studies by the University of Illinois that show repeated exposure to the chemicals DEA (diethanolamine), MEA (momoethnanolamine) and TEA (triethanolamine) could lead to an increased risk of liver and kidney cancers.6. ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL
Not to be confused with rubbing alcohol, Isopropyl alcohol is commonly used in temporary hair colors, shampoos, conditioners and more. Industially, it is used in antifreeze and shellac. Regular exposure to Isopropyl alcohol could cause dizziness, fainting, headaches, depression, vomiting, feeling of sickness, narcosis and in some cases has led to coma. Not to mention that it is drying to your hair and could eventually lead to severe breakage.Trying to avoid the toxic, harmful ingredients found in so many hair, skin and beauty products can sometimes be overwhelming, but knowing what ingredients to look for and avoid is the first step in making the process easier.