Phthalates: These industrial compounds are widely used in hairsprays, perfumes and cosmetics. Animal studies on certain phthalates have shown the chemicals may cause a variety of problems, including reproductive and developmental harm, organ damage, immune suppression, endocrine disruption and cancer.
Choosing All-Natural Cleansers
Finding safe and toxin-free soaps and body washes is not as simple as looking for the "all-natural," organic" or even "hypoallergenic" label, as these products can still contain dangerous ingredients. The term "hypoallergenic" can actually mean whatever a particular company wants it to mean, according to the FDA.
In order to avoid harmful chemicals, you need to read the product's label before you buy. Avoid anything that has the chemicals listed above, including "paraben" (which may appear as methylparaben or others) or "phthalate" (which can be listed as dibutyl and diethylhexyl or just "fragrance").
When choosing a body cleanser be sure to read the ingredients, as even those labeled "natural" or "organic" can contain harmful chemicals.
A general rule of thumb? The fewer ingredients listed, the better. Some generally safe and gentle ingredients are:
Organic oils (such as olive oil) Essential oils Castile soap
Aloe vera Plant extracts
89 percent of ingredients in the personal care products you use everyday -- shampoo, soap, shave cream cosmetics, etc. -- have never been tested for safety.
Chemicals in Cosmetics and Cleansers continued
Organic
Shampoo, Conditioner, Detangler and Pomade
