The harsh reality is almost everything we use in our home and beauty routine is full of chemicals and synthetic fragrances. Exposing our bodies and skin to toxic products can speed up premature aging and put us at risk of more serious diseases. Ahead; are some common offenders that could be making you sick.
1. Non-Stick Cookware
While convenient and usually more affordable non-stick cookware often contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Known as ‘forever chemicals’ because they never leave our bodies, PFOA has been linked to health issues and diseases like cancer and thyroid disease. When these chemicals are heated they infuse our food so switch to safe, chemical-free stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware.
2. Chemical Hair Dyes
Subjecting your hair to bleach and chemical hair dyes causes hair damage and can accelerate shedding and praying. Toluene is a chemical solvent commonly present in many hair dyes that has been linked to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and nervous system damage.
3. Plastic Food Containers
Plastic water bottles and food containers contain hazardous chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates which we can ingest through drinking or storing and heating our food. Not only are these bad for the environment these toxic chemicals are known endocrine disruptors that can lead to hormonal imbalances which speed up aging, and hair loss and cause more serious health issues.
4. Synthetic Scents and Fragrances
Many cosmetics like fragrances, makeup, cleaning products, and laundry detergents contain synthetic scents and fragrances. These synthetic nasties can contain hundreds of harmful chemicals which can damage our health and trigger premature aging.
5. Artificial Colors
Artificial synthetic colorings are also commonly used in makeup like blush, lipstick, and eyeshadows to make them more visually appealing. Anything applied to the skin can be absorbed into the body disrupting its natural oil balance and the health of our microbiome. This can lead to skin irritation, blocked pores, inflammation, blemishes, premature aging, and more serious health issues.
6. Waxy Petroleum
Petroleum jelly, present in moisturizers, body washes, body lotions, hair conditioners, and lip balms is banned in Europe as it is a by-product of gasoline and is possibly carcinogenic (cancer-causing). Always choose clean, chemical-free beauty products otherwise you could be harming your health and aging your skin faster.
7. Unnatural Synthetic Fabrics
It’s always better to buy and wear natural fabrics like cotton, silk, linen, and cashmere as they breathe better, last longer, and are better for your health and our environment. Cheap clothes and textiles made from synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic are treated with chemicals like formaldehyde to prevent wrinkles and shrinkage and these toxic nasties can be ingested and absorbed into the skin.
8. Antiperspirants and Deodorants
Antiperspirants and deodorants might make us feel clean and smell fresh but many contain aluminum compounds and parabens. These toxic chemicals can be absorbed through the skin and have been linked to breast cancer and hormonal disruptions so always choose natural, organic deodorants.
9. Waterproof Fabrics
Stain-resistant and waterproof fabric can also be treated with perfluorinated chemicals (PFCs). These toxic ‘forever chemicals’ have been linked to serious health issues, including cancer and liver damage. Always check the labels, look for natural, organic fibers, and avoid waterproof and stain-resistant fabrics at all costs.
10. Toxic Nail Polishes
We’re all for well-manicured nails but beware as some nail polishes can be harmful to our health. Some polishes contain toluene a dangerous solvent that can cause respiratory issues and skin irritation. Others also feature formaldehyde, a preservative that prevents the growth of bacteria which is a danger to our health and can cause skin sensitivity and allergic reactions.
11. Nasty Pesticides
There’s a good reason the clean, organic movement has taken off. Harmful pesticides used in gardening and household products like pest control sprays contain a toxic cocktail of chemicals that pose a major risk to our health and can cause cancer and neurological problems. Eat organic food, and use organic skincare as ingredients, and crops are often also sprayed with damaging chemicals to preserve and prolong them and these can be ingested and absorbed into our skin.
12. Upholstered Furniture
Upholstered furniture can contain flame retardants which contain PFAS and PFOA. These are both forever chemicals that have been linked to cancer, endocrine disruption, and reproductive issues. Choose furniture made from natural materials and free or chemicals or consider buying second-hand pieces.
13. Foaming Shampoos
Your favorite shampoo could unknowingly be damaging your hair, scalp, and health. Shampoos contain sodium lauryl sulfate (or SLS) which gives them their lather and this chemical nasty has proven to interfere with hormone function and can even lead to reproductive issues and more serious health conditions like cancer. Use natural-chemical-free shampoo, conditioner, and styling products to also protect against hair loss and premature graying.
14. Beware Your Toothpaste
Always check the ingredient label of your toothpaste. Some pastes are infused with harmful chemicals like sodium lauryl sulfate, triclosan, and parabens to prevent bacterial growth but when we are exposed to them, they can cause toxicity in the body and damage teeth and health.
15. Cleaning Products
Many household cleaning products are made with harsh chemicals like ammonia, bleach, and phthalates, which can irritate the skin and cause more serious health problems. Opt for natural or eco-friendly alternatives ideally infused with plant-based ingredients.
16. Air Fresheners
Air fresheners often contain synthetic fragrances and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can cause headaches, dizziness, respiratory issues and skin irritation. Choose more natural healthy alternatives like essential oil diffusers, scented candles or open windows for more ventilation.