9 Harmful Ingredients in Cosmetic and Personal Care Products ...

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Parabens are preservatives used to lengthen the shelf life of personal care products and even some food items. However, in us humans, they can cause premature aging. They can also trigger allergies, although this is rare. Parabens can increase estrogen levels and has been linked to breast cancer.

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These preservatives, although used to prevent food and cosmetics from going rancid, can be harmful for humans. These compounds are fat soluble and can accumulate in the fat cells of the body. Over time, one can experience toxicity and health problems. BHA and BHT are said to cause cancer and tumors.

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This compound is used to produce that thick lather in your shampoo and that smooth consistency in lotions. When it reacts with the other ingredients in the products, it becomes carcinogenic. It can affect your hormones and may cause stomach, liver, esophagus, and bladder cancers.

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Mineral oils are used as moisturizers in personal care products. Even though it may seem that they are helpful to your body, they can actually cause damage. Mineral oils can hinder the proper absorption of some vitamins and minerals. The oils can also clog pores and cause premature aging.

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These petroleum-based ingredients are used in personal care products as the main ingredient of skin protectants. Even though it softens and soothes dry skin, it can also clog pores and can actually worsen dry skin and acne. These moisturizers have also been found in breast cancer tumors.

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You might know that parfum is the chemical used in different personal care products to improve the smell. It is also used to give your perfume that delicious and enticing scent. However, not many people know that parfum is an irritant and can trigger allergies. Some people experience headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Parfum can also aggravate lung problems in some individuals.

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This solvent is used in many personal care products, as well as in industrial products such as air conditioning compressor lubricant, coolant, and anti-freeze. While it can help retain skin moisture, it can also cause liver and kidney problems. Propylene glycol can also cause eye and skin irritation.

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Triclosan is an anti-bacterial ingredient commonly used in deodorants, soaps, toothpastes, and anti-microbial creams. But did you know that it is also registered as a pesticide by the United States Environmental Protection Agency? Not only is this ingredient harmful for the environment, it can also cause cancer in human beings. It can cause endocrine and reproductive malfunctions as well.

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Sodium lauryl sulphate and sodium laureth sulphate are chemicals used to produce foam and bubbles in shampoos, soaps, body gels, and facial cleansers. These chemicals, despite being cleaning agents, can irritate your skin and eyes.

Take a look at the ingredients of the products on your shelf right now. Do they have the ingredients mentioned in the list? Next time, think twice before buying the same products. Know that you are not limited to products with harmful ingredients. There are natural alternatives that do not cost a fortune. And even if you have to shell out a bit more cash, think about how you are protecting your body from potential sicknesses and problems.

Top Photo Credit: Donna Manning