What are those ingredients?

1.  Parabens (antibacterial chemicals, preservative, lengthens shelf life)

Found in:  mascara, shampoos, moisturizers, shaving cream, toothpaste, and spray tanning solutions. 

Problem:  mimic estrogen, hinder fertility, and increases risk for cancer.   

Includes:  methyl-, ethyl-, and butylparabens.

2.  PEG Compounds (synthetic chemicals)

Found in:  skin conditioners, makeup, moisturizers, cleansers, and acne treatment.

Problem: toxic to the neuro system, reproductive system, and increases risk for cancer.

Includes:  1,4-dioxane, ethylene oxide, lead, and nickel. 

3.  DMDM Hydantoin (preservative)

Found in:  shampoos and conditioners.

Problem:  emits formaldehyde (which decreases immune function, irritates skin, and increases risk for cancer).

*Banned in Japan.

4.  Triclosan  (used to kill bugs and germs)

Found in:  hand sanitizers, body washes, antiperspirants, deodorants, and toothpaste.

Problem:  interferes with thyroid and reproductive function.  It also accumulates in water and interferes with sea life. 

*Banned in Japan and Canada.

5.  Quaternium-15  (preservative that kills bacteria)

Found in:  Johnson’s Baby Shampoo, Mr. Bubble Bath and Huggies Baby Wash.

Problem: kills bacteria by releasing formaldehyde, causes reproductive toxicity, allergies, and skin irritation.

6.  Urea (preservative)

Found in:   moisturizer, shampoo, conditioner, deodorant, toothpaste, hand cream, and foundation. 

Problem:  releases formaldehyde and causes skin irritation.

Includes:  diazolidiny urea, imidazolidinyl urea, DMDM hydantoin, and sodium hydroxymethylglycinate

-derived from animal urine.

7.  Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate (detergent, foaming agent, comes from petroleum)

Found in: soaps, shampoos, and toothpaste.  

Problem:  carcinogenic, skin irritation, dries out skin, damage hair follicles, and alters skin chemistry.

-gives us all those suds.

8.  MEA/DEA/TEA (amines or ammonia compounds, foaming agent)

Found in:   facial cleansers, haircare products, and sunscreens. 

Problem:  causes allergic reactions, eye irritation, skin irritation, and increases risk for cancer. 

9.  Fragrance (scents)

Found in:  perfume

Problem:  contain phthalates and increases risk for cancer.  

10.  Dye  (made from coal tar)

Found in: hair dyes, cosmetics, and lotions.

Problem: irritates the skin and increases risk for cancer.

Labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by a color and a number.

Take home note:  maybe we don't need so many preservatives!

Look for brands that are unfamiliar to you.  Most of the brands advertised, contain these ingredients.