The TOXIC INGREDIENTS lurking in your favorite Skin, Hair, and Makeup Products...

 Its been awhile since I did my last blog entry and this topic is something I'm passionate about spreading the word about because its one of the most misunderstood topics in the health movement.  Primarily because many of the so-called "organic" and/or "natural" lines you often see at Whole Foods Market, Trader Joes, or small organic chain supermarkets although might contain some organic ingredients, they also contain very inorganic ingredients.  These inorganic ingredients which in reality are chemicals compromise the integrity and safety of such products.   But unless you the consumer take the time to educate yourself on  what ingredients to look for and what ingredients to absolutely avoid you might not realize the so-called "natural" toothpaste is pretty much no different then the crest brand toothpaste you used growing up plus some cool organic herbs added.   

To add insult to injury the government actually doesn't require organic or natural skincare/haircare/makeup lines to list all chemicals they add to their products if it makes up less than 5% of the total ingredient list even with  the organic seal.  Just as long as they are not comprised of fragrances or petrochemicals.  However, to complicate things further the trade secret law outsmarts that if the creator of the product thinks it would reveal their secret formula.  The skincare lines I recommend in my previous blog you can be assured to the best of my knowledge and research do not cover up or have any hidden ingredients.    In effort to help you understand the risk factors and dangers of traditional products ingredients, below I am highlighting the top ingredients you need to watch out for.   Now onto the TOXIC INGREDIENTS...and this by no means is an extensive list so bear that in mind when reading.


1.  SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (SLS)/SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE (SLES)/AMMONIUM LAURYL SULFATE(ALS)- The most commonly used names for this chemical that is in nearly every conventional shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face product in order to make your products lather.   According to the Environmental Working Group Cosmetic Safety Database and PubMed's Science Reports there is over 16, 000 studies that have shown the dangers to using this chemical including:

• Irritation of the skin and eyes
• Organ toxicity
• Developmental/reproductive toxicity
• Neurotoxicity, endocrine disruption, ecotoxicology, and biochemical or cellular changes
• Possible mutations and cancer

Furthermore, SLS, SLES, and ALS are often contaminated with three known carcinogenic chemicals: Ethylene oxide, 1,4 dioxane, and Nitrosamines.  In other words, cancer causing ingredients!  Its no wonder, cancer is becoming so widespread when we are using products every day.   Be sure to watch out for other names for this chemical like: Sodium dodecyl sulfate, A13-00356,Sulfuric acid, monododecyl ester, sodium salt, Akyposal SDS,Sodium salt sulfuric acid, Aquarex ME, Monododecyl ester sodium salt sulfuric acid,Aquarex methyl.  

2. PRESERVATIVES AND FORMALDEHYDE- Including METHYL, BUTYL, ETHYL, PROPYL Parabens have been shown to not only be irritating to the skin but have also been linked to the development of breast cancer (Journal of Applied toxicology Jan/Feb 2004).   Also, steer clear of GSE (Grapefruit Seed Extract) as its contaminated with one of these ingredients as I explained in my previous blog entry.  Furthermore the following preservatives release small amounts of a probable carcinogen Formaldehyde according to the EPA including: diazolidinyl urea, DMDM hydantion, imidazolidinyl urea, quaternium 15, bronopol (2-brono-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol).  According to The Green Guide and Natural Healthy Concepts, exposure to the Formaldehyde over long periods of time can result in: 

• asthma attacks,
• involuntary sweating,
• breathing difficulty, 
• nausea
• headaches
• insomnia
• ear infections
• chronic fatigue
• cancer
• chest pains
• allergies

*Safer preservatives are rosemary extract, Gold, ascorbic acid (if from non gmo source),  and pycnogenol to name a few. *

3. GLYCOLS (propylene glycol, glycerin, ethylene glycol, carbitol, diethylene glycol, EGPE, EGME, EGEE, DEGBE, PGME, DPGME, or Methyl-):  Commonly used as a humectant in moisturizers despite the FDA warning the dangers of using this ingredient in concentrations greater than 5% even on small parts of the body.  

•  According to the Green Guide, "some glycols can affect the reproductive system or cause birth defects and overexposure can result in kidney damage and liver abnormalities."  

4. FRAGRANCES/PHYTHALATES: (Methylene Chloride, toluene, Methyl ethyl ketone, methyl isobutyl ketone, ethyl alcohol, and benzyl chloride) So be weary if you see "natural fragrance" or something similiar at the end of the ingredient list because thats usually a cover up for some nasty chemical.  *The best natural alternative to fragrances are to use pure unadulterated Essential Oils such as Young Living Oils. *

• According to The Green Guide, "Phythalates are responsible for causing liver cancer and birth defects to the animals that have been tested for its dangers. Pthalates can penetrate deep into the skin, making the internal body parts susceptible to its dangers."  
• Not only that, because of the government's trade secret law, companies are actually not required to list fragrances on the ingredient list.  Therefore, just because a product states that its fragrance-free does not in fact actually mean it is fragrance free because of the trade secret law.  

5. LEAD/MERCURY:  Everyone should know by now the dangers of heavy metals on the body but very few people are probably aware just where they could be getting exposed to these things and what the side affects are. 

• According to The Green Guide, "Lead is known as the brain and hormone toxin as it alters natural hormone processes, causing disruptions to the body’s natural flow...Mercury is known for its drastic effects to ones nervous system when a person is exposed to it for a long time." Both are commonly found in various cosmetic lines particularly lines that are created to be longer lasting for the wearer.  If you get chapped or swollen lips after using a lipstick its likely you're allergic to it and it has lead present in it.  

6. ANTIBACTERIALS: You ever wonder why despite all the soap we use and the numerous times we wash our hands that we still manage to not be able to protect ourselves against diseases like E Coli and Salmolnella? Well thats partially a result of the excessive use of antibacterial agents.  Triclosan is one example that is a synthetic antibacterial agent that the EPA registers as a pesticide and is classified as a Chlorophenol (chemicals suspected of causing cancer in humans).  ABC News recently published an article online stating that "recent research suggests these products may encourage the growth of “superbugs” resistant to antimicrobial agents, a problem when these bacteria run rampant, turning into a dangerous infection that cannot be treated with available medication...Triclosan creates an environment where the resistant, mutated bacteria are more likely to survive." 


7. SUNSCREENS: As cited in The Green Guide, "Benzophenone, benzophenone-3, homosalate, Octy-methoxycinnamate have shown estrogenic activity in lab tests.  While Padimate-O and Parsol 1789 are chemicals that have the potential to damage DNA when illuminated with sunlight. On the skin's surface, the chemicals do protect from UV damage, but once absorbed, these chemicals can prove destructive." A safer alternative is to use a sunscreen with non nano particle sized Titanium Dioxide or Zinc Oxide which only rest on the surface of the skin and don't penetrate deep inside like traditional sunscreens.  *


8. ARTIFICIAL COLORS:  According to The Green Guide, "FD&C Blue 1 and FD&C Green 3 are carcinogenic, and D&C Red 33, FD&C Yellow 5, and FC&C Yellow 6 have been shown to cause cancer when applied to the skin.  Some artificial coal-tar colors contain heavy metal impurities, including arsenic & lead, which are carcinogenic." And Mind Body Green also states "Absorption can cause depletion of oxygen and even death."


9. DIOXIN: Although you won't commonly see this ingredient listed on skincare labels since its often contained in other toxic ingredients such as SLS, triclosan, emulsifiers, sanitary napkins, etc.  Another reason to steer clear of those other ingredients.   Dioxin has shown to cause cancer, birth deformaties, miscarriages, nervous system disorders, and reduced immunity.  


10. BENZOYL PEROXIDE: Commonly seen in anti- Acne products.  A possible tumor promoter. A known skin, eye, and respiratory irritant.  Produces DNA damage and may act as a mutagen. 


11.DEA (Diethanolamine), MEA (Monoethanolamine), & TEA (Triethanolamine): Commonly found in most shampoos, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.  A skin/eye irritant that has been known to cause contact dermatitis.  Since its easily absorbed through the skin its resulted in various organ cancers.  

This is by no means a comprehensive list but it is a starting point for you.   I also encourage you to use sites like Environmental Working Group (www.ewg.org) or that has taken the time to assess unbiased thousands of skincare products and create a rating based on the toxicity of each so you can see for yourself the potential dangers of such products. Download their app so you can check out the safety of your favorite products before you buy them.  According to EWG, 89% of 10,500 ingredients used in personal care products have not been evaluated for safety by the FDA.  So keep that in mind if an ingredient doesn't show up on the database because it doesn't mean its necessarily any safer.  Rather it just means there isn't enough studies on that particular ingredient to know for certain the toxicities and long term cumulative affects of using that ingredient. 

One thing you should always ask yourself when it comes to label reading of skincare is:  Could you eat the all of the ingredients without getting seriously ill? If the answer is no, then its best to stay away from such products because even though you may think your just applying these products topically, the fact of the matter is they're still being absorbed into your skin and eventually hitting the bloodstream.  Why add to your toxic load just in the name of vanity when you could still maintain beatiful skin, hair, and nails without resorting to such products.   If you can't live without a few at least reduce your toxic load.   Start by aiming to replace the  stuff you use everyday (face wash, shampoo, body wash, toothpaste, etc) with safe, organic (look for USDA certified Organic seal), and chemical free alternatives such as the products I mentioned on my previous blog entry.  

References:

The Green Guide Product Report (Moisturizers, Body Lotions, and Hand Creams)

http://www.thegreenguide.com/the-dirty-dozen-ingredients-in-personal-care-products

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-5971/12-Toxic-Ingredients-to-AVOID-in-Cosmetics-Skin-Care-Products-Infographic.html

http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/style/12-toxic-beauty-ingredients.htm
www.ewg.org

Skincredible...dump the junk and put these in your beauty regime

Before I dive into my top favorite and more importantly truly organic and chemical free products I want to start off by saying a couple things:

1.) The health of your skin depends not only on your daily skincare regime but also and more importantly on your lifestyle.  The type of food you intake, your stress levels, your gut health, your genetic predisposition, and your delicate hormone balance.

2.) All the brands I mention below I have personally tried, researched, and would recommend based on the purity and effectiveness of the formulas. 

3.) Just because a product advertises to be "pure," "paraben free," or "organic" doesn't necessarily mean the product as a whole is as safe as they would like you to believe it is.  My advice is get in the habit of religiously reading the labels before purchasing a new product.  Get educated on the dirty dozen chemicals lurking in your beauty products.  And if any of the ingredients listed you could not safely consume internally than its best to leave the product alone.   Also watch out for so called healthy preservatives like "grapefruit seed extract."  I will go more into detail in on another page. 

Haircare:  Hands down, Morrocco Method Int'l haircare is by far the purest of them all.  Not only are they truly chemical free, but they are the only raw, gluten free, and vegan haircare line to not use any lathering agents or toxic ingredients.  They utilize the 5 elements of earth, wind, fire, air, and water in creating their shampoos which you rotate everyday.   Since I began using their products over 10 yrs ago they have dramatically expanded their line.  Since my hair is very fine and oily I learned that its best not to shampoo my hair every day.  Also I don't need the extra conditioner in their daily regime. 

My top picks: 

1. 5 elements shampoos (rotated and used every other day
2. Zen Detox Hair and Scalp therapy (this is amazing for washing out your previous shampoos toxic residue and therefore lifting the chemicals out from beneath your scalp.)  
3. Volumizing Mist (I prefer this to the diamond mist.  It gives my hair a nice lift)
4. Scalp massager and natural boar bristle brush- (less abrasive that other cheaper brands.  Use morning and night) (www.morroccomethod.com) 

Body care:  

I have several favorite products.

1. Dry skin brush- ideally use daily, every morning before showering in a circular motion starting from the feet going up.  It sloughs off the dead skin and activates lymphatic drainage.
2. Tremblay Apiaries Bee Sudz Handmade Honey and Shea Butter Soap- if you live locally in nyc, you can find this at the union square farmers market.   beesudz1@hotmail.com 
3. The Vital Image- Shaving Miracle.  The best shaving gel that prevents you from getting nicks when you shave. http://www.thevitalimage.com/SkinProd.htm
4. Simple Divine Botanicals deodorant in Lavender scent.  This stuff is awesome, has no chemicals whatsoever, and is preserved with 24k gold.  http://www.simplydivinebotanicals.com
5. Simple Divine Botanicals Butter Me Up Hand and Body Moisturizing Butter.  This stuff is like candy for the body.  It smells heavenly and leaves you extra soft.  I like the cinnabon scent.  
6. Bee Yummy Skinfood.  If you want a lotion that not only is healing but doesn't leave an oily residue this is for you.  Great for dancers and/or stage performers.  A bit Pricy but well worth it.  http://www.live-live.com/Bee-Yummy-Skin-Food-2oz_p_500.html
7. Dr. Bronner's Body Wash- great for taking to the gym to shower with or using daily. Available at drugstores and whole foods markets nationwide.  I like the peppermint scent best.
8. Beekman's C.O.P.A soaps- Handmade from Coconut, Olive, Palm, and Almond oils in variety of natural scents.  www.copasoaps.com
9. E3 Live handmade soap with Kelp and rare Kukui Nut Oil. http://www.e3live.com
10. Moroccan Elixir- Pure Argan Oil.  Amazing for the skin and nails and its not diluted with other carrier oils www.moroccanelixir.com

Facial Care:

1. Luzern Labs Pure Cleansing Gelee, Micro-Exfoliant, and Serums- My holistic facialist was the first to tell me about this line.  This a spa quality line that does have some chemical components however these are not top cancer causing/concerning ingredients.  They have no sulfates/parabens/synthetic fragrances/petro-chemicals/etc-  www.luzernlabs.com

2.  Tracie Martyn Purifying Cleanser, Enzyme Exfoliant, and Firming Serum- These are my new favorite products!  A vegan skincare line created by famed facialist Tracie Martyn.  Its super simplistic so no need for fancy serums.  Trying substituting the body firming lotion for your face and start smiling. While I could not confirm whether the soy is GMO free or not, this line is still one of the cleanest spa quality lines on the market. www.traciemartyn.com

3. Dr. Alkatis toner- I love this toner- it doesnt dry the skin and is extremely effective.  I would not however recommend his face wash as the blend of oils may not be compatible with you.   Also, if you decide to try his other products definitely contact the company and find out the sourcing for the grapefruit seed extract.  alkatis.org

4. Isun rhassoul refining exfoliant- I love this product- you will be amazed how much smaller your pores can look with daily use of this.   http://www.beautyhabit.com/product4588.html

5. Ann Marie Gianni Anti aging face oil*- The owner, is the wife of the popular online raw food radio show personality and decided to dive into skincare.  Definitely no chemicals whatsoever in her formulations.    www.annmariegianni.com

6. Moroccan Elixir- Pure Argan Oil.  Amazing for the skin and not diluted with other carrier oils www.moroccanelixir.com  I've been using this most recently in lieu of my usual moisturizer and love how soft and smooth my skin has become.

7.  Young Living Frankincense/Helichrysum/Copaiba/Sandlewood Oils- A little goes a long way.   Apply a couple drops of one or more oils of your choosing one at a time directly on the skin and be amazed to see how soft and smooth your skin looks.  The oils I mentioned are particularly good for acne prone skin.  You could easily use this in place of moisturizer. www.youngliving.com 

*A little secret Ann Marie Gianni's followers might not be aware of is that her formulations are more or less a copy of ISUN's line with slight variations.  A beauty supplier told me this in response to my inquiry why she opted not to sell Ann Marie Gianni's line as she told me that they use the same formulator as ISUN (which she was already selling) for her products.* 


Toothcare:

1. Ascended Health's Oralive- (http://www.ascendedhealth.com/products.htm) The highest quality and purest superfood filled toothpaste on the market.  An added bonus is if you digest it instead of spitting it out it contributes to healthy gut flora.

2. Toothsoap- First famed by raw food community for its purity and cavity prevention.  Easy to use but has a strong soap like taste so if you're used to sugary toothpastes I would opt for oralive instead and/or young living oils toothpaste as a beginning transition.   (http://www.toothsoap.com)

3. Young Living's Thieves and peppermint essential oils-These are the purest oils on the market and are the only line I know that you can take internally because they are unadulterated. Thieves is great to dab on teeth that are showing signs of cavity to target.  Peppermint is the best natural breath freshner.   You typically have to purchase them through a distrubutor so feel free to email me if you want more information.  (www.youngliving.com)

4. Tongue scraper- I recommend Dr. Tung's tongue cleaner over other models.   A must do when you first wake up to clear out the old dirty bacteria on your tongue from the night prior.  It will go a long way in helping bad breath.  (http://www.longevitywarehouse.com/Tongue-Cleaner-p/tonguecleaner.htm)

5.  Oral Irrigator-  My holistic dentist tuned me into this product as daily preventative care for the teeth.  He prefers this particular brand over cheaper similar models as this one is magnetized.  (http://hydrofloss.com)

6.  Health gum drops-  Another option instead of thieves to use.  Put a dab on your floss to target hard to reach areas in the mouth.  (http://www.longevitywarehouse.com/Longevity-Warehouse-Healthy-Gum-Drops-5-mL-p/healthygumdrops.htm)

7. Vita-Myr Mouthwash- A great alternative to traditional mouthwash without the chemicals.  Its not very sweet but has zinc, folic acid, and essential oils to create a healthy mouth.  (http://www.vitamyr.com/mouthwashingredients.htm)

Makeup:

1. AlimaPure Cosmetics- The purest and most diversified mineral makeup line I have come across.  They have quite a few brighter hues of eye color to work with although the minerals can be difficult to apply to eye area.  I particularly like their primer foundation, foundation, and finishing powder best.  And unlike other brands you see at sephora- AlimaPure has no nano-particles and no toxic bismuth oxycholoride. www.alimapure.com 

2. RMS Beauty-  A top makeup artist who because extremely chemically sensitive and decided to bridge her love of the raw food lifestyle and cosmetics.  I love their concealer. Its more of cream oil base but goes on sheer and has more coverage.   www.rmsbeauty.com

3. Real Purity Pressed Powder Blush- Carmine free, Vegan, and Fragrance Free in vibrant pinks www.realpurity.com 

4. 100% Pure Organic Vegan Cosmetics.  I like their lipsticks and blushes so far the best.  Available at Integral Yoga Foods in NYC and various drug stores around the country. www.100percentpure.com

5. Dr. Alkatis- I love his eye makeup remover.  Made of pure almond oil.  Your eyes no longer burn when wiping off your eye makeup and it perfect for moisturizing under eye area. (alkatis.org)

6. Priti NYC nail polish- No nail polish will ever likely be completely chemical free but this line is a least free of the three most toxic nail polish ingredients: Toluene, Formaldehyde, and Dibutyl phthalate (DBP).  This line comes in a variety of colors to suit your palette.  They also have an acetone free nail polish remover that is equally good.

8.  ILIA lipstick and lip exfoliator.   A new fav of mine sourced from almost all organic ingredients with vivid red and pink shades.  And don't forget their lip exfoliator for a perfect pout.  My fav shade is wild child and balmy nights exfoliator.   www.iliabeauty.com 

9. No Miss nail polish- Same benefits as above line with a variety of colors and sold at Whole Foods Markets around the country or at (www.nomiss.com)

10.  HoneyBee Gardens Nail Polish Remover- Acetone free which means less damaging to the nails.  (http://www.honeybeegardens.com/product/natural-cosmetics/rem.html)