Bathrooms
are dangerous places, everyone knows that!!
Many accidents occur such as slipping, drowning, electrocution
…. BUT there's another more insidious problem involving the
Personal Care/ cosmetics you and your family use every day,
and these are no accident.
Are
you concerned about your family's health?
•Would
you let them use potentially harmful ingredients on their skin?
•What about motor vehicle engine degreasers, brake
fluid and anti-freeze solution?
Do
they sound like the sort of things that belong in your personal
care and skin care products?
Like most people your answer is going to be NO!
Brake fluid and anti-freeze are definitely not things we want
on our family's skin, especially our children's Yet you may
inadvertently be doing that very thing.
In
fact, unless you are aware of these issues, you most probably
are!
THE FACTS ARE SIMPLE
Many
shampoos, conditioners, toothpastes, deodorants, cosmetics,
in fact most personal care products in your bathroom, contain
ingredients that pose potential health hazards as they contain
known carcinogens ( cancer causing substances).
If
you are concerned read on to learn more about how to protect
your family's health .
THE
TOXIC TWELVE CHALLENGE
1.SODIUM
LAURYL SULFATE: ( SLS): one of the most commonly
used foaming agents found in most cosmetics , shampoos, personal
care products and bubble baths. Also used in car washes, garage
floor cleaners and engine degreaser. (See below for toxicity/health
dangers, a known carcinogen)
2.PROPYLENE
GLYCOL: petrochemical solvent used as a humectant. A
humectant is a substance that helps retain moisture content.
It prevents things from drying out. Used in anti-freeze, brake
and hydraulic fluid and pet food. Also in many cosmetics and
personal care items ( See below for toxicity/health dangers,
a known carcinogen)
3.ALCOHOL:
High alcohol content particularly in mouthwashes, should be
avoided. A 1991 survey of people with mouth, tongue, or throat
cancers suggests the use of high-alcohol ( more than 25%) mouthwash
contributes to increased risk of these tumours. Alcohol in high
% is also found in most French and American branded perfumes
and fragrances.
4.FLUORIDE:
found in toothpaste and dental care products. Poison to humans
when ingested over long periods, as it accumulates in our body
tissues. If a child swallows a tube of fluoride toothpaste,
it is so toxic they will have to pump his/her stomach.
5.TALC:
is associated with increase in ovarian cancer and respiratory
illness. Talc should never be used on babies both because of
it's carcinogen and acute respiratory distress it can cause
from inhalation
6.
FORMALDEHYDE: used mainly as a preservative in thousands
of cosmetics. It is known to cause eye, nose and throat irritation,
coughing, asthma attacks, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting,
skin rashes, nose bleeds, headaches dizziness and most likely
cancer.
7.DIETHANOLAMINE(
DEA) TRIETHEOLAMINE(TEA) MONOETANOLAMINE(MEA) are readily
absorbed through the skin and accumulate in organs. DEA, TEA
& MEA are skin and eye irritants. When found in products containing
nitrates they can chemically convert to form nitrosamines which
are known carcinogens ( Samuel S Epstein MD Co- Author of the
Safe Shoppers Bible one of the world's renowned experts on the
causes and prevention of cancer.
8.TOLUENE:
A very common solvent found in nail enamels, spray cans, hair
sprays, hair gels, perfumes and fragrances. It triggers asthma
attacks and can cause asthma in previously healthy people. Is
also a neurotoxin ( adverse nervous system effects). Can cause
liver damage and be an endocrine disrupter.
9.ALUMINIUM:
Found in antiperspirants. Links to alzheimer's disease continue
to be explored and debated. It was been identified as a neurotoxin
which can actively interfere with many chemical reactions in
the brain.
10.PEG:
LAURETH ( ethoxylated) may contain dioxane which are
known carcinogens , estrogen mimic, and endocrine disrupter.
11.HAIR
DYES (Hydroxyanisole and Phenylenediamine)"DY(E)ING
YOUNG" Regular and long-term use of hair dyes can cause cancer.
A report published in the January 2 1994 issue of the Journal
of the National Cancer Institute shows that women who used black
hair dyes for more then 20 years had a significantly increased
risk of dying from non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and multiple myeloma.
The study was carried out by M J Thun M.D. and colleagues at
the American Cancer Society and the F.D.A. Another report published
as a abstract in the October 15,1993 issue of the American Journal
of Epidemiology, showed that men and women who used permanent
or semi-permanent hair dyes for 16 or more years had an increased
risk for leukaemia.
Dale Sandler, Ph.D., and colleagues at the National Institute
of Environmental Health Sciences( NIEHS) compared hair dye use
among 615 leukaemia patients and 630 without the disease.
The researchers found that those who had used any type of hair
dye had a 50% increased risk of developing leukaemia compared
with people who never dyed their hair. Most of the risk shown
in the NIEHS study was associated with permanent and semi-permanent
dyes, which increased risk by 60% and 40 % respectively.
According to the study, long-term users who used hair dyes for
16 or more years, were 2.5 times more likely to develop leukaemia
than those who never used hair dyes. Another study from Italy
published in 1994 in the American Journal of Epidemiology, also
suggested that leukaemia might be associated with the use of
hair dyes.
The investigators obtained information on hair dye use from
634 individuals with leukaemia and 1161 controls. For both men
and women, relative risks were slightly elevated for users of
dark dyes. Among men, the greatest risk ( about 2 fold) was
for a 90% risk for acute lymphomatic leukaemia and 70% risk
for acute myeloid leukaemia.
Women
who used hair dyes more frequently had greater risks for these
types of leukaemia than less frequent users. A Greek study,
published in 1994 as an abstract in the American Journal of
Epidemiology, reported a 2 fold increase in the risk of non-Hodgkin's
lymphoma associated with the use of hair-colouring products.
Long-term users of black hair-colouring products had an almost
5-fold increase in risk. A study by Anastasia Tzonou. D.M. Sc.,
and colleagues at the Harvard School of Public Health and the
University of Athens Medical School, reported in the Sept 30
1993 issue of the International Journal of Cancer, suggested
that regular use of hair dyes might increase the risk of ovarian
cancer.
12.
AHAs ( Alpha Hydroxy Acid): are
used in most Anti-Ageing Creams Many users suffer severe allergic
reactions or skin irritations The independent (15.11.95) quoted
Graham Ross solicitor for claimants in a proposed case against
leading cosmetic companies.
That certain Anti-aging creams made by Clinique and Elizabeth
Arden have been prominent among the treatments alleged to have
produced irritation. In 1994, the US Food and Drug Administration
(FDA) received more than 35 adverse reaction reports for AHA-containing
products, and this represented 44% of adverse reactions to skincare
products reported to the FDA for that year. AHAs are actually
chemical acids.
Some, such as glycolic, lactic, citric and malic, occur naturally
in fruits and other foods hence the term " fruit acids". The
acids used most often in cosmetics are glycolic and lactic acids.
Cream containing AHAs are used to "exfoliate the skin" and are
generally said to be able to increase the skin's cell turnover
rate, reducing the depth of fine lines and promote water retention
in the newly emerging cells.
They work by sloughing off the top layer of the dead skin cells
to expose brighter, fresher new cells beneath. According to
the FDA , little is known about the overall safety of AHAs when
used as chemical exfoliants because this is a relatively new
application.
"
But since chemical exfoliation exerts an effect on the skin,
by causing the outer layer to come off, AHA containing cosmetics
have the potential to cause adverse reactions in some users,
and sometimes these reactions can be quite serious"
warns the FDA in a recent report transmitted through the internet.
CANCER
THREAT?
The
latest news is that the FDA is now gathering experts to evaluate
lingering concerns about the acids- including whether they increase
sensitivity to sun rays that can cause wrinkles and even cancer
( Malay Mail 27.12.96) The cancer threat is reportedly an issue
which has been a concern to dermatologists.
According
to the Here's Health article, " if a cream can stimulate skin
to replicate and replace old cells by new, it could also potentially
create cancerous cells" These concerns have also been expressed
by a leading New Zealand trichologist .
MORE
DETAILS
Sodium
Lauryl Sulfate( SLS)
This
ingredient causes a major concern because it is so widely used.
It is found in over 90% of all foam producing products ie cosmetics,
shampoos, personal care products and bubble baths.
There is a great deal of controversy about how toxic it actually
is. Yet there are literally hundreds of scientific studies highlighting
its toxicity. The reason it is so widely used, is because it
is a cheap foaming agent.
These
concerns are made repeatedly in the information on SLS: Readily
penetrates the skin. SLS can accumulate in our body tissue.
It can penetrate into the eyes, brain, kidneys etc, through
our skin. SLS can damage the immune system causing separation
of skin layers and severe irritation of the skin.
On the scalp, long term exposure to SLS can cause hair loss
due to corrosion of hair follicles. Animal studies show SLS
could retard healing and children's eyes from developing properly.
Children under six are particularly vulnerable to improper eye
development.
Associated with development of cataracts even with indirect
contact. In toothpaste SLS causes microscopic damage to the
mouth tissues, which can lead to an increase in gum disease.
It is also linked to reoccurring mouth ulcers. Carcinogenic
nitrates can form when SLS interacts with nitrogen bearing agents
which are common in personal care products. SLS is actually
used in clinical studies to irritate and sensitise skin tissue.
Do
you find this disturbing ?
Why take the unnecessary risk?
Propylene
Glycol
Once again a very common ingredient in personal care products
with no therapeutic benefits and some very real concerns surrounding
it. Why is it used?
Because it makes the skin feel smooth. Readily absorbed through
the skin and scalp. Propylene Glycol accumulates in the heart,
liver and kidneys ( causing abnormalities and damage) and weakens
the immune system.
Studies show Propylene Glycol is capable of producing both primary
irritant skin reactions and allergic sensitisation including
contact dermatitis. It inhibits skin cell growth in human tests
and can damage cell membranes causing rashes, dry skin and surface
damage.
Significant number of reactions and primary irritant to the
skin, even in LOW levels of concentration. Material Safety Data
Sheets (MSDS) warn users to avoid contact with skin. There are
literally hundreds of ingredients which have concerns, both
major and minor, surrounding them.
Below
is a list of 20 ingredients often referred to as
DANGEROUS or HARMFUL.
Most can easily be replaced with safe alternatives.
These ingredients have the potential to be carcinogenic to humans
and have often proved to have been so to animals:
•BHA*
Butalayted Hydroxianisole: preservative .
•BHT* Butalayted Hydroxytoluene: preservative.
•2-bromo 2-nitrpropane-1,3 diol ( Bronopel or BNDP)* in
cosmetics
•Hydroxyanisole * used in permanent hair dyes.
•Methylene Chloride * ( hairsprays) Nervous system poison.
•Phenylenediamine * ( hair dyes) can cause blindness
•Saccharin * sweetener found in toothpastes etc may cause
brain tumours
•Phenol * disinfectant in cosmetics
The
following ingredients block the pores and tend to suffocate
the skin contributing to acne:
•Animal
Fat ( tallow) found in soap. May cause eczema and can be breeding
ground for bacteria.
•Bentonite /Koalin
•Collagen
•Petrolatum
•Mineral oil
Ironically
, these ingredients can damage and irritate the skin,the very
thing they are supposed to be improving:
•AHA
Alpha Hydroxy Acid
•Lanolin, pesticide contaminants
•Lye
•SLES Sodium Laureth Sulfate
•Ethyl & Methyl methacrylate* found in sculptured nail
applications and can cause severe nerve damage.
•Ether* used as solvent. Skin irritant, inhaling can cause
nervous system damage.
•Quatenium* preservative releases formaldehyde.
These items taken with permission from " Dangerous Beauty, Cosmetics
and Personal Care", Peter Dingle and Toni Brown. (1999) Dr Dingle
states that these ingredients are some of the ones which should
be totally avoided, because they have the potential to cause
multiple and serious adverse effects to your health.
· Don't
make the mistake of judging the safety of the product by the
price tag. Both the cheapest and the most expensive products
may contain harmful ingredients.
Basically
we can say, it it's in your bathroom CHECK IT!! Especially where
children are involved.
The
best thing you can do for you and your family is to find a Manufacturer
genuinely committed to making safe products and avoid all known
toxic ingredients.
We have the power to make informed
choices. Why
are cancer rates soaring to one in three?
There are so many harmful chemicals in our present environment
that we can not realistically hope to eliminate them all, but
we have control over some.
We don't as yet have all the information regarding many of these
chemicals. But we do have sufficient information about ingredients
such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Propylene Glycol, from animal
and human studies, to conclude that they are not good for us.
It is important to remember that these chemicals accumulate
in the body. Exposure today may not result in health problems
for years.
-Why expose yourself and family needlessly, day after day, year
after year?
-How many symptoms have to appear for you to do something?
Take
preventative Action NOW!
Testimonials
These
people have experienced first hand the damaging effect of our
personal CARE PRODUCTS.
I had experienced psoriasis for 20 years, receiving relief only
with cortisone cream. When I went to visit Australia I left
my toiletry bag at home.
I had to use my nephew's products. I was amazed that my skin
felt clean and free from itching for the first time in years.
I later found that their products were free from some very potentially
harmful ingredients.
I used to think I was using the best and safest product, but
now I know better. Now that I know that there's an alternative
available from companies committed to making products free of
these damaging ingredients, I'll never change and also have
not needed to use cortisone treatment again.
Rosemary, New Zealand
Having
a dermatologist in the family I knew that bubble baths could
cause problems. I gave in one day and bought some for my young
daughter.
Her skin became itchy and she developed some eczema. I have
learnt my lesson and avoid those products now that I know irritate
her, and her skins stays fine. Sally, Brisbane Australia
I
always had thick, luxuriant hair that people were often complimenting
me on. I was dismayed to find it was gradually thinning, losing
its lustre and becoming burnt out.
When I found out about the harsh ingredients, some even dangerous
to our health, in even very expensive shampoos etc, I changed
brands. My hair is now back to its former state and I am getting
the compliments again.
I look back at old photos and feel angry that my hair looked
so terrible for such an unnecessary reason. I am extremely grateful
I found an alternative .My hair is manageable at all times.
The health of my family and myself is very important to me .
I now have peace of mind.
Gordana, Melbourne Australia
For
many years I suffered with extreme dermatitis on my arms, legs
and face. My hands were so bad that the knuckles would bleed
when I made a fist. After trying many creams, lotions, pills
and diets to no avail, I had really lost hope.
About 2 months ago I was made aware that ordinary shampoos,
soaps etc that I had been using may actually contain ingredients
that were toxic. I switched brands and was amazed at the results.
Within weeks my skin and, in particular, my hands were better
than they had been in many years. Now my skin looks fine, but
I am very careful about the things I use on my skin. I will
always be grateful for that information.
Scott, New Zealand.
For
many years my gums had been deteriorating. They were receding
quite dramatically and bleeding a lot. The roots of my teeth
were becoming exposed and I had resigned myself to losing my
teeth at an early age.
I found out that products were available that did not contain
SLS or other potentially harmful ingredients. When I began using
these personal products the change in my gums was dramatic.
The bleeding has stopped and the gums have changed from red
to a healthy pink. I also feel the gums are gradually growing
back. It seems incredible that other toothpastes were actually
contributing to the problem. I'm very grateful I've found an
alternative.
Paul, Caboolture Australia.
How
is it possible THAT this is happening?
Trusting
in authorities ' looking after us' is not going
to help us in the long run it's like believing in the tooth
fairy. We need to WAKE UP and take personal responsibility for
your own health.
Look at how the authorities worldwide have looked after us with
Tobacco and Asbestos and how they are looking after us with
AIDs and Cancer Drugs .
The legislation regarding these products is incomplete and does
not protect you from the use or misuse of these chemicals.
The public does not have access to basic information on the
health effects of these chemicals ( most adverse health reports
are hidden for decades, while thousands or millions die from
the damaging effects of these chemicals as did with tobacco/asbestos
reports for decades )
Big multinationals and consequently governments are driven by
self interest :
Profits
, Greed and Ego.
They will do what they can get away with legally to maximise
profits They use these harmful ingredients because they're cheap
and they can, and will until legislators either ban them or
require honest labelling.
In
the USA labelling regulations are stricter than the joint Australian
/ New Zealand labelling laws.
Here is what is required in the USA on a typical label for toothpaste
you can buy in Australia/ New Zealand.
TOOTHPASTE
WARNING LABEL:
Children 2-6 years; use only a pea sized amount and supervise
child's brushing and rinsing ( to minimize swallowing) Under
2 yrs ask your dentist or physician. WARNING; Keep
out of reach of children under 6 yrs of age. In case of accidental
ingestion seek professional assistance or contact a poison control
center immediately
You
have to wonder why such a product is allowed to be sold at all
in the U.S.A or any where in the world , It doesn't sound a
very safe thing to put into your mouth does it?
THE
CHOICE IS YOURS...
•BECOME
A WISE CONSUMER
•AVOID
UNNECESSARY PRODUCTS
•VOTE
WITH YOUR SHOPPING DOLLARS
•ENCOURAGE
COMPANIES TO MAKE SAFER PRODUCTS
•READ
LABELS & BECOME EMPOWERED TO MAKE SAFE CHOICES
•MAKE
SURE INGREDIENTS ARE LISTED ON THE ITEMS YOU BUY
•LOOK
AROUND FOR MANUFACTURERS THAT ARE CONSIOUSLY MAKING AN EFFORT
TO MAKE SAFE PRODUCTS
Check
your bathroom with the above lists Now, and when you find any
product containing the above mentioned ingredients THROW them
OUT NOW .
TAKE
ACTION NOW!
Today
is the day to improve your health and find alternative products
THAT USE SAFE INGREDIENTS .
Email
Jim
at HEALTH SOLUTIONS DIRECT
info@health-search.com
for more information on Safe alternatives.
The
above was taken from the following books and for Further Information
read them:
"TOXIC
TIMEBOMB Bathroom Secrets Exposed"
Beinformed Production P/L
www.beinformed.com.au
"Exposed
" and the Consumer Association of Penang, Malaysia "Cosmetics
& Personal Care Products More Dangers & Side-Effects" Guide
ISBN 983-104-093-7
Bathrooms
The Inside Story. Beinformed Productions.2000.video.
Dingle P & Brown T. 99 Dangerous Beauty , Cosmetics and Personal
Care.
Steinman,David & Epstein, Samuel S. 1995. MacMillan. The SAFE
Shoppers Bible. www.preventcancer.com
Winter,
Ruth.M.S 1994 Consumer Dictionary of Cosmetics Ingredients .
Beinformed
productions Books , News-letters, Health Brochures
Tapes and Videos'
are available from HEALTH SOLUTIONS DIRECT - CLICK
HERE
These
statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration
in the U.S.A. or the Ministry of Health in New Zealand. This
product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent
any disease.
Disclaimer:
This information is intended for educational purposes only.
No information or product described herein should be relied
upon implicitly to diagnose , treat, cure or prevent diseases
. Please make your own conclusion or consult your health profession
