Continuing on the theme of the dirty dozen, we are up to covering the 3 P’s, Parabens, PEG’s and Petrolatum. Note that in some cases ingredients have made it to this list, but the toxicity is totally dependent on its method of the manufacturing process and the purity of the ingredient.
- Parabens:
Parabens are the most widely used preservatives in cosmetics. Methylparaben, butylparaben and propylparaben are most commonly used.
Parabens easily penetrate the skin and are suspected of interfering with hormone function. Parabens can mimic oestrogen. In one study, 99% of breast cancer tumour biopsied contained parabens.
Parabens are naturally occurring in some foods, for instance strawberries, barley, currents, vanilla, carrots and onions but are metabolized when eaten. Synthetic parabens bypass the metabolic process and enter the blood stream and organs intact.
- PEG’s
PEG’s (polyethylene glycols) are petroleum based compounds that are widely used in cream bases to allow permeability of the skin for greater absorption. Not all PEG’s are bad. The safety of PEG’s is dependent on its manufacturing process. Contaminates PEG’s contain measureable amounts of 1,4-dioxane which is classified as a human carcinogen.
The industry panel that reviews safety concluded that some PEG’s are unsafe for use on damaged skin. There is no limitations on the use of PEG’s and PEG’s that are of the highest purity and do not contain this contaminate are safe for use.
- Petrolatum
Also known as mineral oil or jelly is used as a barrier to lock moisture into the skin and is used in hair products to increase shine.
Petrolatum may be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and studies show that exposure to PAH’s over a long period of time is associated with cancer.
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
www.davidsuzuki.org David Suzuki Foundation
www.arbonne.com Arbonne International
www.cosmeticsinfo.org Cosmetics Info
http://www.youtube.com/user/personalcarecouncil?feature=watch
