Showing posts with label phthalates. Show all posts
Showing posts with label phthalates. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Phthalates


My son suddenly discovered body spray last year. When I read the label and saw phthalates I decided to find out what they were. What follows is some of the information I found.

Twenty years of research has suggested that phthalates disrupt the hormone system. Developmental and reproductive issues have been associated to some phthalates. Other research suggests the same mechanism may contribute to the growth of breast tumor cells.


Phthalates are used in a variety of common products from toys to air fresheners to skin care and cosmetics. Unfortunately most labels do not list phthalates as an ingredient because of a loophole that allows phthalates to be included in “fragrance” without being listed. Because fragrance is added to nearly every product consumers are being exposed to phthalates daily and often without even knowing it.


The easiest way to reduce your exposure to phthalates is to choose natural skin care and cosmetics that do not allow phthalates in their products. If you love fragrance choose products with essential oil blends or phthalate-free fragrances.
SafeCosmetics.org is a great resource for information and offers a list of companies who have signed their Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. Be sure to look up Beaute Purpose you are there.

Wishing you health and wellness,


Regina

Empowering Wellness Presentation

I have been asked to speak to many groups about the toxins commonly found in our personal care products.  In order to empower more people for wellness I share my presentation handout information with you. Do your own research, educate yourself, so you are empowered to make choices for wellness.


Our TOXIC WORLD

Parabens (alkyl-p-hydroxybenzoates) - The EPA states that all parabens, methyl, propyl, butyl, have been proven to interfere with the function of the endocrine system. The Center for Children’s Health and the Environment at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York says endocrine disruptors have been suspected of contributing to reproductive and developmental disorders, learning problems and immune system dysfunction in children. (Source: Environmental Working Group)

Phthalates - Commonly used in mascara, fingernail polish, and fragrances. Evidence indicates that phthalates can harm the developing fetuses and children. According to the Breast Cancer Fund, hundreds of animal studies have shown that phthalates can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs and reproductive system, primarily in male offspring. Phthalates affect the hormone system. (Source: Environmental Working Group)

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) - SLS is not a carcinogen however, it is a skin irritant. When SLS is being produced 1, 4 Dioxane (seriously toxic and linked to cancer , reproductive toxicity and organ system toxicity) can creep in just from the manufacturing process. Wikipedia stated is as being “an accidental byproduct of the ethoxylation process in cosmetics manufacturing.” (Source: Environmental Working Group)

Oxybenzone - widely used sunscreen ingredient, has been linked to allergies, hormone disruption, and cell damage. Another study revealed a link to low birthweight in baby girls whose mothers are exposed during pregnancy. Oxybenzone is also a penetration enhancer, a chemical that helps other chemicals penetrate the skin.

PAHs - (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) are common contaminants in petrolatum, also called petroleum jelly. Petrolatum is found in one of every 14 products on the market including lipstick, baby lotions and baby oils. PAHs have been linked to breast cancer and banned by the September 2004 European Union Directive.

Environmental Working Group (EWG) www.ewg.org

WELLNESS PLAN

Simple steps to removing the toxic overload on your system. Wellness involves Mind, Body, and Spirit. To achieve Whole Wellness be certain to balance healing in all aspects of your being.

1. Become a Label Reader! As you learn what to avoid, watch for them in your products.

2. Use Caution! Be picky about the companies you choose to deal with. www.SafeCosmetics.org lists companies who have pledged to offer safe products for your families health.

3. Choose Organic! EWG (website above) offers a “Dirty Dozen” list of the food you need to be eating organic. Remember, if it’s not organic it can be genetically modified and they don’t have to tell you. See the movie Food, Inc. http://www.foodincmovie.com/about-the-film.php

4. Slow and Steady Wins the Race! Don’t try to change everything at once! Choose the things that concern you most (e.g. organic food) and start there. Making little modifications consistently is much better than being overwhelmed and making no changes at all.

5. Join sites and email lists that encourage and provide helpful information. There are many out there, find one that resonates with you.

6. Balance Your Life! - It’s your life, choose to balance the time you have.

7. Be Proactive! It’s your life - choose how you want to live it!

Wishing you Health & Wellness!

Regina Collins, Founder of Beaute Purpose ~ Natural, Organic, Gluten Free Skin Care


I would be honored to speak for your group. Simply contact me at regina@beautepurpose.com to schedule.