Part 2- Parfum, Phthalates & Formaldehyde
Here is some useful information on the next three ingredients found in the list of the “Dirty Dozen”
- Parfum (Fragrance)
Sunscreen and other products are often injected with any combination of fragrance ingredients as a way to make the product smell nicer. The list of aroma producing chemicals is over 3000! Manufacturers never disclose these chemical formulas as they are part of their secret recipe.
Even products that are marked fragrance free could still have fragrance ingredients that act as a masking agent to neutralize odours.
Fragrance ingredients have been known to trigger allergies and asthma and some are linked to cancer and neurotoxicity. UK researchers have reported that “perfume” is the second most common cause of allergy in patients at Dermatology clinics.
- Phthalates
Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP) is used in nail products as a solvent for dyes and as a plasticizer. It can be absorbed through the skin and has been shown to enhance the mutating effects of other chemicals. DBP interferes with hormone function and is harmful to an unborn child.
Diethyl Phthalates (DEP) are widely used as fragrance ingredients and have similar effects. It is advised to avoid products that list “parfum” or “fragrance “, in the list of ingredients and manufacturers are not required to disclose specific fragrance chemicals.
Phthalates are banned in the European Union and as they are linked to early onset of puberty and a risk of cancer in later-life; the NICNAS assessment found that DBP alone and/or with the simultaneous use of multiple cosmetic products containing DBP by children and the general population can result in high risk of reproductive toxicity.
- Formaldehyde
Normally used to preserve dead bodies! Naturally occurring and commonly used in the form of formalin, it inhibits the growth of microorganisms. Formalin is commonly found in nail hardeners, keratin hair straighteners, shampoo, face creams and baby wash.
Look for these ingredients: DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, methaenamine and quarterniu-15
The International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies formaldehyde as a known human carcinogen. European Union regulations insist that amounts above .05 % must be stated on products however there is no restriction on these ingredients in Australia.
Kath Swallow
Kath Swallow is an Arbonne Independent Consultant and can provide solutions for skincare and nutrition that are Pure, Safe and Beneficial . Visit her website here at kathswallow.arbonne.com
References:
https://www.epa.gov Environmental Protection Authority
www.davidsuzuki.org David Suzuki Foundation
www.ecodiscoveries.com Eco Discoveries
www.ewg.org Environmental Working Group
http://www.safecosmeticsaustralia.com.au/key-issues Safe Cosmetics Australia
