There are so many cosmetic products out there clamouring to be “the fairest of them all”, but many of them are hiding a number of ugly secrets. We unmask six hidden nasties lurking in your beauty cabinet \u2013 what they are, what makes them so bad for you, which products you\u2019ll typically find them in and how they are listed on product labels. Armed with this knowledge, you can ensure you choose beauty products that are free of yucky, potentially harmful ingredients like these.<\/p>\n
What they are:<\/strong> <\/em>These preservatives are added to many beauty products in order to prevent the growth of bacteria, mould and yeast.<\/p>\n What makes them dangerous:<\/strong><\/em> Unfortunately, parabens have oestrogen-mimicking properties that make them hormonal disruptors, and so they are linked to an increased risk of hormonal imbalances, early puberty, breast cancer, male sterility and tumour growth.<\/p>\n Where they\u2019re found:<\/strong><\/em> Makeup, body washes, antiperspirant deodorants, shampoo, face washes; even some foods and pharmaceutical products.<\/p>\n What they\u2019re called:<\/strong><\/em> Look out for any mentions of Methyl, Butyl, Ethyl or Propyl on your product labels.<\/p>\n What it is:<\/strong><\/em> A petrochemical (derived from petroleum or coal tar). Toluene\u00a0is a powerful solvent that even can dissolve paint and paint thinner; it is used to give products like nail polish their optimum consistency.<\/p>\n What makes it dangerous:<\/strong><\/em> This nasty has also been linked to respiratory irritation, asthma, nausea and skin irritation.<\/p>\n Where it\u2019s found:<\/strong><\/em> Nail lacquers, nail treatments, hair colours and hair bleaching products.<\/p>\n What it\u2019s called:<\/strong> <\/em>You might see toluene listed as benzene, toluol, phenylmethane or methylbenzene.<\/p>\n What it is:<\/strong><\/em> An organic compound commonly used as a skin-conditioning agent.<\/p>\n What makes it dangerous:<\/strong><\/em> Propylene glycol is classified as a skin irritant and a skin penetrator. Even concentrations as low as 2% have been linked to skin conditions like dermatitis and hives. Exposure to PG has also been linked to kidney and liver problems.<\/p>\n Where it\u2019s found:<\/strong><\/em> Moisturisers, sunscreen, makeup, conditioners, shampoo and hair sprays.<\/p>\n What it\u2019s called:<\/strong> <\/em>Propylene glycol is shortened to PEG.<\/p>\n What it is:<\/strong> <\/em>An antimicrobial, antibacterial chemical.<\/p>\n What makes it dangerous:<\/strong> <\/em>Triclosan bioaccumulates, meaning it builds up in tissue over time. It is a known endocrine disruptor, with especially detrimental effects on the thyroid and reproductive hormones. It\u2019s also a skin irritant. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registers Triclosan as a pesticide, posing risks to human health and environment.<\/p>\n Where it\u2019s found:<\/strong> <\/em>Toothpaste, antibacterial soaps and deodorants.<\/p>\n What it\u2019s called:<\/strong> <\/em>Triclosan is also commonly listed as Irgasan DP-300, Lexol 300, Ster-Zac or Cloxifenolum.<\/p>\n2. Toluene<\/strong><\/h2>\n
3. Propylene Glycol<\/strong><\/h2>\n
4. Triclosan<\/strong><\/h2>\n
5. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate<\/strong><\/h2>\n