Cosmetics & Personal Care
Common Hazardous Chemicals found in Personal Care Products
Eye and Face Make-up (revised Spring 2011)
Blush
Concealer
Eye Liner
Eye Shadow
Face Powder
Foundation
Lip Gloss, Balms and Protectors (see skin products section)
Lip Products
Makeup Remover
MascaraDental and Oral Hygiene (Spring 2011)
Dental Floss
Denture Cleaners
Mouthwash
Toothpaste
Tooth WhitenersFeminine Hygiene (Spring 2011)
Douches
Tampons, Pads and other Menstrual ProductsHair Care (Spring 2011)
Conditioner
Hair Colouring
Hair Oils and Pomades
Hair Relaxers and Straighteners
Hair Styling
Mousse (see Hair Styling)
Permanent Waves
ShampooHair Removal (Spring 2011)
Waxes/Sugaring Compounds
Shaving Products (see skin products section)Nail Products (Spring 2011)
Nail Polish
Nail Polish Remover Artificial NailsSkin Products (Summer 2011)
Astringent and Toner
Bath Products
Body and Massage Oil
Body Powder
Cleanser
Deodorants and Antiperspirants
Exfoliants and Scrubs
Facial Masks and Steam Baths
Facial Mists
Facial Scrubs (see Exfoliants and Scrubs)
Lip Glosses, Balms and Protectors
Lotions, Creams and Moisturizers
Lubricants
Shaving Products
Soap
Sun Protection
Common Hazardous Ingredients in Personal Care Products
More than 10,000 ingredients are allowed for use in personal care products -- and the
average woman wears 515 of them every day, according to a 2009 British study that looked at the
routines of over 2,000 women. Very little is known about the health effects of these chemicals.
More than 90% have never been tested for their effects on human health, and complete toxicity
data are available for only 7% of them. Even though government agencies are aware of the
health hazards of some ingredients, such as hydroquinone or phthalates, they are still
allowed in personal care products.
We are providing information on some of the most common hazardous ingredients, so that
you can check your cosmetic labels and see if they are there. Hazardous ingredients are
usually present in conventional products, but they may also
be found in some “alternative” products which try to be more health conscious.
Note though that some chemicals about which there are serious concerns. such as fragrance
ingredients or contaminants found in certain chemicals, will not show up on labels
so reading labels won’t tell you everything you need to know. The information below should
be helpful.
In preparing this guide, we
screened products and chose those which had the least amount of these hazardous
chemicals, or none at all, for our Best and Good sections.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) and Beta Hydroxy Acids - Alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids are acid "skin peels" marketed as a way to remove wrinkles, blemishes, blotches and acne scars. With their use, "the skin reddens like a sunburn, then darkens and peels away supposedly leaving 'new' skin", according to the US Food and Drug Administration. Beta hydroxy acid is preferred for oily skin. These skin peels enjoy widespread popularity. The Environmental Working Group found they were added to one out of every 17 personal care products on the US market. They can be found in skin care products ranging from moisturizers and cleansers to eye creams and sunscreen. The FDA estimates that they injure 1,000 Americans every year by burning the skin. The FDA is also concerned that they contribute to UV skin damage and may raise the risk of skin cancer. In Canada, the Health Canada Cosmetic Hotlist allows concentrations of less than 10% in personal care products, but higher concentrations are allowed for professional use. Health Canada also requires cautionary warnings on leave-on products containing AHA when the concentrations are above 3%.
Aluminum - Aluminum compounds are the active ingredients in antiperspirants. By temporarily plugging the sweat ducts, they stop sweat coming to the skin's surface. A 2005 British study, published in the Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry, found that aluminum-based compounds may be absorbed by the skin and cause estrogen-like effects. Because estrogen has the ability to promote breast cancer cells, some scientists have suggested that the aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants may contribute to the development of breast cancer. A 2003 study in the European Journal of Cancer found that women who used antiperspirants or deodorants and who shaved their underarms at an earlier age were at greater risk for breast cancer than women who started later.
Benzyl Alcohol and Isopropyl Alcohol - Both benzyl alcohol and isopropyl alcohol irritate the skin. They are used as fragrance ingredients and as preservatives, solvents and anti-foaming agents for hand sanitizers, sunscreens,lotions and baby wipes. There is also evidence that these two alcohols are neurotoxic. Children younger than 3 years old are particularly at risk for toxic effects if they are exposed to benzyl alcohol.
Boric Acid and Sodium Borate - Boric acid and sodium borate are preservatives in personal care products and baby products, which are easily absorbed into the skin. Although they are considered by the cosmetic industry to be unsafe for infants or for damaged skin, they are an ingredient in many diaper rash creams and moisturizers.
Bronopol (2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-2,3-Diol) - Bronopol, a preservative, is a lung, immune system and skin toxicant, and has been shown to disrupt the endocrine system in animal studies. Yet, it is used in baby wipes, conditioners, liquid soaps and body washes. Bronopol can break down into formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, and into nitrosamines, which are suspected carcinogens.
Butylated Hydroxy Anisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxy Toluene (BHT) - Butylated hydroxy anisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT) are closely related preservatives and antioxidants. They slow down the rate at which product ingredients change colour. They are present in lipsticks, eyeshadows and many other types of cosmetics. Both BHA and BHT are skin allergens. BHA is "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" by the US National Toxicology Program. It is also used in fragrances, although this use is not allowed in the European Union because it can cause skin depigmentation. For BHT, there is some evidence that it promotes tumours and can disrupt the hormonal system.
Ceteareth - See Polyethylene glycol (PEG).
Coal Tar Dyes - Used extensively in personal care products, coal tar colours are often identified on ingredient lists as FD&C, D&C or C.I. followed by the colour name or number. As their name suggests, they are made from coal tar, a petroleum product. Many people experience allergic reactions like skin irritation and contact dermatitis. Some evidence suggests that certain coal tar colours cause cancer -- D&C Blue 1, D&C Green 3, D&C Red 4, and D&C Yellow 5. Coal tar itself is a recognized human carcinogen and is banned from use in cosmetics. However, each coal tar dye has different properties and different potential health concerns. On US products, coal tar dyes are listed as FD&C or D&C, followed by a colour and a number (F indicates that the colour is also approved for food use). In Canada, they may be identified as C.I. (Colour Index) followed by a 5 digit number or as p-phenylenediamine. (Natural and inorganic pigments are numbered in the 75000 and 77000 series respectively.) In Canada, coal tar colours are permitted in hair dyes only if the labels carry warnings about skin irritation and possible blindness if the product is used for dying eyelashes or eyebrows. Health Canada does not allow many of these colours to be in products sold for use in the area of the eye, but there are no restrictions on their use in other products.
1,4-Dioxane - Because it is classified by the US Environmental Protection Agency as a probable carcinogen, 1,4-dioxane is a particular concern in children's and baby products. It is a contaminant in shampoos, body wash, children's bath products and other sudsing cosmetics. Because 1,4-dioxane is a contaminant and not an ingredient, it doesn't appear on ingredient labels. Product tests done in 2009 for the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found 1,4-dioxane in in baby shampoos and in many bath products marketed for young children. 1,4-dioxane can form during a manufacturing process called ethoxylation. Ethoxylation uses ethylene oxide (a mammary carcinogen in animals) to make other chemicals less abrasive. For example, ethylene oxide converts the harsh sodium laurel sulphate to the milder sodium laureth sulphate (the "eth" in laureth shows ethoxylation), which can result in 1,4-dioxane contamination. In addition to sodium laurel sulphate, ethoxylation is used for many different chemicals used in cosmetics.
DMDM Hydantoin, Diazolidinyl Urea and Imidazolidinyl Urea - DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea and imidazolidinyl urea are commonly used preservatives that can release formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a sensitizer and a proven carcinogen. Exposure to formaldehyde may cause joint pain, depression, headaches, chest pains, ear infections, chronic fatigue, dizziness and loss of sleep. It is estimated that 20 per cent of people exposed to DMDM hydantoin will experience an allergic reaction. Imidazolidinyl urea may cause contact dermatitis in some individuals.
FD&C Colours - See Coal Tar Colours.
Formaldehyde - Formaldehyde is a known sensitizer and a known carcinogen. Exposure to formaldehyde may cause joint pain, depression, headaches, chest pains, ear infections, chronic fatigue, dizziness, and loss of sleep. Formaldehyde may be used in personal care products as a disinfectant, germicide, fungicide and preservative. It can be found in soaps, shampoos, hair preparations, deodorants, lotions, shaving cream and mouthwash. it is also used in nail products, specifically as a nail hardening agent, and is one of the "toxic trio" targetted for elimination from nail polish and removers by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. It has also been found in high concentrations in certain hair straightening products. Formaldehyde may also be released when the preservatives, DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea and imidiazolidinyl urea are present in products, as discussed above.
Fragrance - Synthetic fragrance is the most common ingredient found on the label of personal care products. The generic terms, "fragrance" or "parfum", can indicate the presence of up to 3,000 separate ingredients. Most or all of them are synthetic. Fragrance is a sensitizer and a known trigger of asthma. Symptoms reported to the FDA have included headaches, dizziness, rashes, skin discoloration, violent coughing and vomiting, and allergic skin irritation. A test of fragrance products by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, "Not So Sexy", found that perfumes contained an average of 10 known sensitizing chemicals, which can trigger allergic reactions such as asthma, wheezing, headaches, and contact dermatitis. In addition, clinical observations by medical doctors have shown that exposure to fragrances can affect the central nervous system, causing depression, hyperactivity, irritability, inability to cope, and other behavioral changes." (Home Safe Home, Debra Lynn Dadd). Many of the compounds in fragrance are also suspected or proven carcinogens. In 1989 the US National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health evaluated 2,983 fragrance chemicals for health effects. They identified 884 of them as toxic substances. In a 1991 study, the US Environmental Protection Agency found that 100% of the perfumes they tested contained toluene, which can cause liver, kidney and brain damage as well as damage to a developing fetus. Certain fragrance ingredients, such as phthalates, have been found to have hormone disrupting properties. Diethyl phthalate (DEP), a solvent used in fragrances, has been linked to adverse reproductive effects, including DNA damage to human sperm. Many of the fragrance ingredients that have harmful effects are not listed on ingredient labels. In the European Union, labels are required to identify 24 well-known allergenic substances that are used to create fragrances. For more information on hazardous fragrance ingredients, see also phthalates and musks.
Hydroquinone - Hydroquinone is found in many skin lightening products, and is considered to be one of the most toxic ingredients allowed in cosmetics. It can also be present as an impurity in ingredients such as tocopherol acetate, used in facial and skin cleansers and hair conditioners. Hydroquinone works by reducing melanin in the skin, and therefore increases exposure to UVA and UVB rays of the sun. Hydroquinone is classified as a cancer causing agent by Health Canada. It has been linked to kidney damage, and can cause a skin condition called ochronosis in which the skin becomes dark and thick. It was assessed under Canada's Chemicals Management Plan as a chemical of high concern. As a result, it has been added to Health Canada's Cosmetic Hotlist and is restricted to use in hair dye and nail products. Warnings on hair dye products should tell users not to dye eyelashes or eyebrows, and users of nail products should be warned to avoid skin contact.
Iodoproponyl Butylcarbamate - Iodoproponyl Butylcarbamate is a preservative found in baby wipes, moisturizers, sunscreens and shampoos, as well as other cosmetic products. It is a pesticide that is registered for use as a fungicide and as a wood preservative. It can cause skin allergies, and may have toxic properties that have not been assessed. It is very toxic when inhaled and should be avoided in aerosol products.
Lead - Lead is a known carcinogen and neurotoxin that can lead to learning and behaviour problems. It has also been linked to reduced fertility. It is readily absorbed through the skin, and accumulates in the bones. Large accumulations can result in leg cramps, muscle weakness, numbness and depression. Lead can be a contaminant in many different kinds of products including sunscreens, foundation, nail colours, whitening toothpaste, and lipstick. A 2008 study by Health Canada found lead in 21 of 26 lipsticks tested. Although lead is prohibited from use in lipsticks, it can be found in colour additives or as impurities in ingredients. It is an ingredient in Grecian Formula 16 and other dark hair dyes for men available in the US, but it is banned from the formulas used in Canada and Europe.
Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone - Methylisothiazolinone and methylchloroisothiazolinone are preservatives used in many cosmetics and personal care products. They are most often found in hair products -- shampoos, conditioners and dyes -- but they are also used in body washes and cleansers. They have been shown in animal studies to be toxic to the immune system and possibly to the developing nervous system. Health Canada's Hotlist allows them to be used together in very limited concentrations for rinse-off products and in even smaller concentrations for leave-on products.
Musks - Galaxolide, Tonalide, musk xylene and musk ketone are musks, which are popular replacements for natural ingredients once used as fragrances in cosmetics. Different musks have different hazardous properties. Although data on their toxicity are scarce, some musks appear to have effects on reproduction. A 2009 study of Austrian students detected 11 different musks in their blood. Galaxolide was found in 83% of the students. The highest levels were found in students who used the most lotion and perfume. Canada has restricted the use of two little used musks -- musk ambrette and musk tibetene -- in cosmetics, but has no restrictions on the more commonly used musks. The European Union has identified musk xylene as a substance of very high concern.
Nanoparticles - Nanoparticles are particles from known chemicals that are manipulated to extremely small dimensions in order to attain certain properties. Widely used in personal care products, particularly sunscreens, the original chemical will be listed on ingredient lists of Canadian cosmetics but there is no requirement to indicate whether it is present in nano form. Nanoparticles are untested for their effects on human health. Their small size means that they can enter the body more easily and have greater access to vulnerable organs and tissues. Animal studies suggest that some nanomaterials in the body cause inflammation, damage brain cells and cause pre-cancerous lesions. The European Union has ruled that companies must indicate when a chemical is used in nano form by adding "nano" in brackets after the chemical's name on the ingredient list.
Nitrosamines - See DEA, TEA and MEA.
Nonylphenol - This estrogen-mimicking chemical is a surfactant used for its detergent properties. It can be found in some plastics, as well as shaving creams, shampoos and hair colours. It can be created when certain chemicals commonly found in personal care products break down. Nonylphenols can be a component in polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a compound often found in acrylic nails. They are persistent in the environment and of such concern that many European countries are phasing them out. Some manufacturers have voluntarily discontinued their use.
Oxybenzone - Oxybenzone, also known as benzophenone-3, 4-MBC and homosalate, is a sunscreen agent and UV light absorber. It is the active ingredient in most sunscreens. The higher the SPF of the sunscreen, the higher the concentration of oxybenzone is likely to be. It is also common in sunscreen moisturizers, facial moisturizers, sunscreen lip balms, skin care lotions, lipstick and hairspray. It is associated with photoallergic reactions in the sun, and is very easily absorbed through the skin. Oxybenzone also assists other ingredients to penetrate the skin. There is scientific evidence suggesting that oxybenzone is a hormone disruptor and may be toxic to the nervous system. A 2008 study from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine found that oxybenzone exposure to pregnant women was associated with low birth weight baby girls. According to the Centers for Disease Control, it is detectable in 97% of people tested in the US.
Parabens - Parabens are preservatives with antibacterial properties. They are widely used in all kinds of personal care products, and particularly deodorants. Paraben on the ingredient list is usually preceded by the prefixes methyl-, ethyl-, butyl-, or propyl-. Parabens mimic estrogen, a hormone that is associated with breast cancer. Parabens can cause allergic reactions or contact dermatitis in some people. Parabens are absorbed through the skin and have been found in biopsied tissue from breast cancer tumours. Safer alternatives to parabens exist, and many products are now marketed as "paraben-free".
PEG - See Polyethylene Glycol.
Phenylenediamine - Used in permanent hair dyes, phenylenediamine or PPD is a coal tar dye of particular concern. It is found in most hair dyes, even products marketed as "natural" or "herbal", and is present in high concentrations in the darkest formulations. It may even be found in hair dyes advertized as "black henna". Some tattoo artists use it to darken henna tattoos. PPD is a carcinogen, and it can also cause severe skin irritation and react with other chemicals to cause photosensitivity. Health Canada requires warnings about skin irritation and blindness if PPD is present in products used for dying eyelashes or eyebrows.
Phthalates - Everyone in the general population is exposed to phthalates from one source or another. They are found in many products from soft plastics and air fresheners to shampoos and nail polish. Tests done by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found phthalates in 3/4 of the 72 products they tested, including deodorants, fragrances, hair gels, mousses, hairsprays and hand and body lotions. Phthalates are used to enhance fragrances to make them last longer and to denature alcohol. Research has shown that phthalates disrupt the hormonal system and interfere with reproduction. A 2008 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives showed that pregnant women exposed to high phthalate levels were more likely to give birth to baby boys with a shortened distance between the anus and the genitals. This study showed that the effects of phthalates on humans were similar to the effects seen in animal studies. The shortened ano-genital distance is associated with genital problems and feminization. An earlier 2002 study in the same journal found that one common type of phthalate, diethyl phthalate (DEP) is damaging to the DNA of sperm in adult men at current levels of exposure. DNA damage to sperm can lead to infertility. DEP is a popular fragrance ingredient and the phthalate that is found in the highest levels in humans. Although some manufacturers have reduced their use of phthalates over the last 8 years, recent product tests found that many fragrances still contain high levels of DEP. Another phthalate, dibutyl phthalate (DBP), has been a favourite ingredient in nail polishes, and US women of child-bearing age have been found to have high levels of DBP. As well, butyl benzyl phthalate (BBP), used to make nail polishes and lipsticks glossy, has been linked in animal studies to an increased risk of breast cancer. For several years, the European Union has banned DBP, BBP and DEHP (di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate) from use in cosmetics, but in Canada and the US there are no restrictions on any phthalates in cosmetics. In addition, phthalates are difficult to avoid. Except for nail polish, phthalates are not generally listed as ingredients on labels because Canada's Cosmetic Regulations allow them to be included under the heading of "fragrance".
Polyethylene Glycol - Polyethylene glycol (PEG) and Ceteareth, both petrochemical compounds, are found in many personal care products, such as body washes, liquid soap, baby wipes, sunscreens and shampoo. They are used as thickeners, softeners, moisture-carriers and penetration enhancers. Both PEG and ceteareth may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen, and ethylene dioxide, a known human carcinogen. 1,4-dioxane readily penetrates the skin, and is considered unsafe for injured or damaged skin. While 1,4-dioxane can be removed from products easily and economically by vacuum stripping during the manufacturing process, there is no way to determine which products have undergone this process. Labels are not required to show this information.
Polysorbate 60 and Polysorbate 80 - Polysorbate 60 and polysorbate 80 are used as emulsifying agents and fragrance ingredients in many different types of personal care products. These chemicals may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen, which readily penetrates the skin. While 1,4-dioxane can be removed from products easily and economically by vacuum stripping during the manufacturing process, there is no way to determine which products have undergone this process. Labels are not required to show this information. Ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, may also be a contaminant of these ingredients.
Propylene Glycol - Propylene glycol is used in many skin products, including moisturizers, facial cleansers, foundations, and anti-aging products, as well as mascara and hair colour products. It is widely used as a moisture-carrying ingredient in place of glycerine because it is cheaper and more readily absorbed through the skin. It is related to polyethylene glycol (PEG) and is known to cause contact dermatitis even at very low concentrations. It is recognized as a neurotoxin by the US National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, and it may cause kidney damage. The Material Safety Data Sheet for propylene glycol warns workers handling this chemical to avoid skin contact.
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats) - Listed on labels as benzalkonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide and quaternium-15, these compounds are caustic and can irritate the eyes. Quaternium-15 is a formaldehyde releaser and the number one cause of preservative-related contact dermatitis. For about 5% of people, quats are an extreme sensitizer and can cause a variety of asthma-like symptoms, including respiratory arrest. When they are used with hot running water, steam increases the inhalation of vapours. These compounds are used in a wide range of products as preservatives, surfactants and germicides. They make hair and skin feel softer immediately after use but long-term use will cause dryness.
Selenium Sulfide- Selenium sulfide is an anti-dandruff and hair conditioning agent found in shampoos, conditioners and dandruff treatments. It is believed to be a neurotoxin and it is classified as a possible human carcinogen by both Environment Canada and the US National Toxicology Program.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate - Sodium lauryl sulfate is a known skin and eye irritant and enhances allergic response to other toxins and allergens. It is used as a lathering agent and detergent, and is present in hundreds of commercial shampoos, body washes, and bubble baths, as well as skin creams and some brands of toothpaste. When sodium laurel sulfate is combined with ethylene oxide (ethoxylized) to create the milder sodium laureth sulfate, it may become contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen. 1,4-dioxane readily penetrates the skin. While 1,4-dioxane can be removed from products easily and economically by vacuum stripping during the manufacturing process, there is no way to determine which products have undergone this process. Labels are not required to show this information. This processing may also lead to the creation of a known carcinogen, ethylene oxide. Ammonium lauryl sulfate is the same compound as sodium lauryl sulfate and has the same uses, but the sodium group has been replaced with an ammonium atom. Although it is also a skin irritant, ammonium lauryl sulfate is not considered quite as hazardous as sodium lauryl sulfate, unless it is ethoxylized. During its ethoxylation to become ammonium laureth sulfate, it is also likely to be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen.
Talc - Talc is a naturally occurring mineral which is carcinogenic when inhaled. In addition, women who regularly use talc in the genital area are at increased risk for ovarian cancer. Airborne talc in body powders and antiperspirant sprays can irritate the lungs. Talcum powder is reported to cause coughing, vomiting, and even pneumonia. Many pediatricians now tell parents to avoid using talc on babies as it can cause respiratory distress. Talc is found in blushes, face powders, eye shadows, foundation and skin fresheners. Used near the eyes, it can irritate sensitive mucous membranes. Talc in liquid cosmetic formulations poses minimal risk.
TEA, DEA and MEA - Triethanolamine (TEA), diethanolamine (DEA) and monoethanolamine (MEA) are additives used in different types of cosmetics such as sunscreens, moisturizers, foundations and hair colour. Other DEA compounds, cocamide DEA and lauramide DEA, are used in soaps, cleansers and shampoos. DEA and its related compounds are used to adjust the pH of products and to act as surfactants. Surfactants help to mix oil and water and work as emulsifiers or wetting agents. DEA and TEA are known to combine with nitrates to form nitrosamines, classified as possible carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. If a product contains nitrites (used as preservatives or present as contaminants although not listed on labels), a chemical reaction can occur either during manufacturing or after a product is made. There is no way to know which products contain nitrosamines because the government does not require companies to disclose this information on labels. Repeated skin application of DEA was found to cause liver and kidney damage in animals. Researchers also discovered that when absorbed through the skin, DEA accumulated in organs. TEA, which is also used as a fragrance ingredient, is toxic to the skin, and to the respiratory and immune systems.
Thimerosol- Thimerosol is a mercury-containing preservative. According to Health Canada, mercury may cause allergic reactions, skin irritation and adverse effects on the nervous system. Studies have also show that it can affect reproduction. Thimerosol is used as a preservative for products applied in the area of the eye, such as eye drops and contact lens solutions. Mercury itself is also sometimes found in cosmetics, and in 2010 tests by the Chicago Tribune found a number of skin whitening products contained high levels of mercury. Mercury is readily absorbed through the skin. Thimerosol is on Health Canada's Cosmetic Hotlist as a prohibited substance.
Titanium Dioxide- Titanium dioxide is widely used in personal care products such as toothpastes to provide whiteness and opacity. It is also used in cosmetic and skin care products and in many sunscreens to protect the skin from ultaviolet light. Titanium dioxide is lcassified as a "possible carcinogen" by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), but is not considered to be a significant health hazard unless it is in powdered form. However, in recent years almost every sunscreen manufacturer has chosen to use nano-sized particles of titanium dioxide or zinc oxide so that when sunscreen is applied, it appears clear instead of white. The health effects of nano-sized titanium dioxide or other nanoparticles are unknown because of the lack of testing, but the few animal studies that have been done suggest serious concerns that these smaller particles may have greater risks.
Toluene- Toluene is a solvent used in nail polish and nail treatments to suspend colour and form a smooth finish on a nail. It is also listed on labels as methylbenzene or toluol. Exposure to toleuene can irritate the eyes, throat and lungs, and cause dizziness, headaches, fatigue and nausea. It is also known as a reproductive toxin and may put pregnant women at risk of having a baby with birth defects or delayed development. Benzene, which is a known human carcinogen, may be a contaminant of toluene, and may give toluene carcinogenic potential.
Triclosan and Triclocarban- Triclosan and triclocarban are synthetic antibacterial chemicals added to soaps, toothpastes, mouthwash, deodorant, shaving cream and other personal care products. Since they are "antibacterial" and not antiviral, they have no effect on viruses, and are, therefore, not effective against colds and flu. Triclosan, which is more commonly used, has been detected in human breast milk, and in 75% of human tissue samples taken, demonstrating widespread exposure. Studies show that triclosan and triclocarban may have endocrine disrupting effects, and in animal studies triclosan was shown to reduce thyroid hormones, which are critical for normal development. An Advisory Panel to the US Food and Drug Administration has said that there is no evidence that soaps with triclosan are any more effective in killing bacteria than plain soap and water. In 2009, the Canadian Medical Association called on the federal government to ban triclosan in consumer products because it causes bacterial resistance, which can interfere with the effectiveness of antibiotics.
Sources and Resources
Websites:
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: www.safecosmetics.org
Skin Deep Database, Environmental Working Group: www.cosmeticsdatabase.com
Not So Sexy: The Health Risks of Secret Chemicals in Fragrance (2010): www.safecosmetics.org
Phasing Out the Toxic Trio: A Review of Popular Nail Polish Brands (2009): www.safecosmetics.org
Not Too Pretty (2002 phthalates report) and A Little Prettier (2008 update): www.nottoopretty.org
Nano-Sunscreens: Not Worth the Risk, Friends of the Earth (2009): www.foe.org/nano-sunscreens-not-worth-risk
The Beast of Beauty: Toxic Ingredients in Cosmetics, Breast Cancer Action Montreal: www.bcam.qc.ca
Femme Toxic: www.femmetoxic.com
What's Inside? That Counts, David Suzuki Foundation: www.davidsuzuki.org
Cancer Prevention Coalition: www.preventcancer.com
Prevent Cancer Now (Canada): www.preventcancernow.ca
DIY Recipes, Safe Cosmetics Campaign: www.safecosmetics.org/article.php?id=233
Cosmetics you make yourself- www.evalu8.org/browse/161
Books:
There's Lead in Your Lipstick, Gillian Deacon, Penguin Books, 2010.
Ecoholic, Adria Vasil, Random House Canada, 2007.
No More Dirty Looks: The Truth About Your Beauty Products and the Ultimate Guide to Safe and Clean
Cosmetics, Siobhan O'Connor & Alexandra Spunt, Perseus Books, 2010.
Toxic Beauty: How Cosmetics and Personal Care Products Endanger Your Health...
And What You Can Do About It, Samuel S. Epstein & Randall Fitzgerald, Ben Bella Books,
2009.
Not Just A Pretty Face, Stacey Malkan, New Society Publishers, 2007.
Drop-dead Gorgeous, Kim Erikson, Contemporary Books, 2002.
Home Safe Home, Debra Lynn Dadd, Tarcher Inc, 2005.
Better Basics for the Home: Simple Solutions for Less Toxic Living, Annie Berthold Bond,
Three Rivers Press, 1999.
(revised Spring 2011)
Where to Buy Products
Personal care products are organized into three categories.
Products in the Best (
) category are
often available in health/natural foods shops, the natural food section of
grocery stores and shops selling environmentally friendly goods. Some products
can be found in pharmacies and chain stores. Many products can be ordered
on-line.
Products in the Good (
)
category are mainly available in health/natural food shops, the natural foods
sections of grocery stores, and shops selling environmentally friendly goods.
However some are increasingly available in mainstream shops. For example, Tom's
toothpaste is now sold in Atlantic Superstore, Shoppers Drug Mart, Lawtons’ and
Wal-Mart. Jason products are found in Wal-Mart and in some pharmacies.
Products in the Simply Unscented (
)
category are widely available in drug, grocery and department stores. Some
product lines are carried only in certain stores. In the Maritimes, Clinique is
sold at the Bay and Sears, while in other parts of Canada Clinique products can be found at Shoppers
Drug Mart. RoC, Almay and Biotherm products are sold at Jean Coutu Pharmacy, Shopper’s Drug Mart, Wal-Mart
and Zellers.
Almost all companies have web sites where products can be viewed. Many companies selling better products or hypoallergenic products will list product ingredients on their web sites. Some companies also list store locations where their products are sold.
Sometimes a store will only carry a few items made by a particular company. If you find a product you like, check the company’s web site to see what else they make.
These are web sites for some of the best less-toxic products not widely available:
Anointment (Nova Scotia) -
www.anointment.ca
Atlantic Healing Hemp -
www.atlantichealinghemp.com
Aubrey Organics (USA) - www.aubrey-organics.com
Botanical Therapeutic (British Columbia) -
www.botanicaltherapeutic.net
Curelle (British Columbia) - www.curelle.com
Druide (Quebec) - www.druide.ca
Ferlow Botanicals-
www.ferlowbotanicals.com
Green Beaver (Can.) -
www.greenbeaver.com
Jiade Cosmetics -
www.jiadecosmetics.com
Moonsnail Soapworks (PEI) -
www.moonsnailsoapworks.com
Through the ages men and women have painted their faces and bodies with colour - often with deadly results. Ancient Egyptians outlined eyes with kohl, a poisonous substance made from antimony. Greeks and Romans liked the pale look, achieved by applying white lead and chalk to their faces. During the Renaissance, the pale look was again popular with a white lead and vinegar mixture applied to face, neck and bosom. Lips and cheeks were tinted bright red with vermilion, a paint containing mercuric sulfide. A heavy coating of powder, often based on talc, kept everything in place. When women noticed that their lead cosmetics caused a variety of skin problems, some applied a facial peel made from mercury. Now we recognize that lead and mercury are highly toxic.
Today, the average woman uses 20 personal care products containing several hundred ingredients every day. And, even now, many of he ingredients are highly toxic. Colours in conventional cosmetics are often chemically synthesized from coal tar. While they’re less expensive than natural compounds to produce, certain coal tar colours have been shown to cause cancer in animals, and many are toxic to the nervous system. Impurities like arsenic and lead in some coal tar colours have been shown to cause cancer not only when ingested, but also when applied to skin. Because it is a contaminant in colours, lead, for example, has been found in many popular brands of lipstick. As well, conventional cosmetics may contain as many as five different synthetic preservatives. Parabens, which mimic estrogen in the body and have been linked with breast cancer, are currently the most popular preservatives used in makeup.
Another concern is the introduction of nanoparticles into just about every type of personal care product on the market, including sunscreen, shampoo, conditioner,anti-wrinkle cream, foundation, face powder, lipstick, blush, eye shadow, and nail polish. The only labelling you are likely to see is "micronized", which may indicate that companies have used nanoparticles of certain ingredients in the product, or "no nano" from companies that have made the choice to avoid their use. Nanoparticles are tiny manipulated versions of existing chemicals, but they present new risks that have not been evaluated and are not yet understood. Because of the lack of information about nanoparticles and their use in personal care products, particularly sunscreens and mineral makeup, products that are identified as "best" or "good" would not qualify in those categories if their ingredients were known to be in nano form.
Blush
The main ingredient in most blushes is talc, which may be contaminated with
carcinogenic asbestos fibres. The US National Toxicology Panel has found that
talc can be toxic and carcinogenic even if it is free of asbestos. Silica, if it is
present in powdered blushes, may also damage the lungs and respiratory system.
Alumina, used in many conventional blushes as an anti-caking agent, is considered
to be a neurotoxin. Colour in blushes is usually provided by
hazardous coal tar dyes, including dyes such as D&C Red 7 Lake and FD&C Yellow 5
Aluminum Lake, both of which are neurotoxic. Acrylate compounds, commonly used as thickening agents,
can be strong irritants. Parabens, BHT and diazolidinyl urea are all used to preserve
blushes, with parabens being the most widely-used. Parabens can disrupt the endocrine
system and have been found in breast cancer tumours.
New formulations of blush,
which use iron oxides for colour and mica instead of talc, are better alternatives.
However, be aware that some mineral makeups may contain bismuth oxychloride, which is
used for shine. Bismuth oxychloride can irritate sensitive skin and cause redness and itching,
and, although it may not cause problems as an ingredient in conventional makeup, it is
present in higher concentrations in mineral makeups.
Best
Ada Cosmetics Mineral Blushes/Bronzers
Coastal Classic Creations Blushes
Jane Iredale Blushes/Bronzers
Johnny Concert Mineral Blush
Larenim Blushes
Maia's Mineral Galaxy
Miessence Mineral Blush Powders/Shimmer Cream
Mineral Concepts
Premium Minerals
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Lip and Cheek Tint
Rejuva Minerals Organic Botanicals Blush
Sappho Cosmetics Blushes/Bronzers (British Columbia co. www.sapphocosmetics.com)
Smashbox O Glow Intuitive Cheek Color
Tea Maria Blushes
Terra Firma Cosmetics Glam Glow
Zosimos Botanicals
Zuii Organic Flora Blush
Good
Afterglow Cosmetics Organic Mineral Blushes
Alima Pure Luminous Shimmer Blush/Satin Matte Blush
Almay Pure Blends Blush Pressed Powder, Sunkissed 300
Aubrey Organics Silken Earth Powder Blush
Aveda Onecolor Plus Two
Avon Mark Cheekblossom Cheek Color Tint/Shimmer Cheekblossom Ripening Cheek Tint
bareMinerals Blushes (Bare Escentuals)
Cosmic Tree Essentials Blush (Nova Scotia co. www.cosmictree.ca)
Earth's Beauty Mineral Colors Blush
Gabriel Blush
Juice Beauty Glowing Cheek Color
LoriannZ Luminous Blush (Can. co. www.mineralmakeup.ca)
LUVU Beauty Blushes (Can. co. www.luvubeauty.com)
Outside/In Cosmetics Mineral Blush/Mineral Bronzer (Can. co. www.outsideincosmetics.com)
Pure Anada Cosmetics Velvet Matte Blush/Luminous Minerals Cheek Color (Can. co. www.pureanada.ca)
Real Purity Powder Blush
rms beauty Lip2Cheek
Signature Minerals Blush
Suncat Natural Mineral Makeup Blush Colors
Zuzu Luxe Blush
Simply Unscented
Almay Pure Blends Blushes/Powder Blush (all cosmetics fragrance free)
Body Shop Lip and Cheek Stain/ Cheek Colour
Clinique Color Rub Allover Lustre
Marcelle Powder Blushes/Cream Blusher (all products fragrance free)
Physicians Formula Blushes (many products fragrance free)
L'Oreal Feel Naturale Blush/True Match Blush
Neutrogena Soft Color Blush
Concealers contain numerous skin irritating chemicals like propylene glycol, polyethylene glycol, and TEA. Polyethylene glycol can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a suspected carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen. TEA, used as an emulsifier, can be contaminated with nitrosamines, considered possible carcinogens. Alumina, a neurotoxin, is used in some concealers as an anti-caking agent. Popular brands are also likely to contain a variety of preservatives, incluing parabens. One, methylparaben, is easily absorbed through the skin and can react with the sun's UVB rays to cause sun damage and skin ageing. Another preservative, imidazolidinyl urea is the second most reported cause of contact dermatitis. Retinyl palmitate (Vitamin A palmitate), a skin conditioning agent, is also used in some concealers even though it too can damage DNA and cause gene mutations in the presence of sunlight. Retinyl palmitate is on Health Canada's Hotlist and is restricted in Canadian products. Fragrance ingredients are also widely used in concealers.
Best
Coastal Classic Creations Concealer
Earth's Beauty Face Concealer
Erth Minerals Concealers
Everyday Minerals Concealers
Healing Scents Blemish Stick
Larenim Concealers
LUVU Beauty Concealers (Can. co.)
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Concealers
Miessence Concealers
Monave Concealer Pencil
Real Purity Disguise System
rms beauty Un cover Up (also a foundation)
Rejuva Minerals Concealer
Revlon Concealer and Highlighter
Sheer Miracle Wide Awake
Zosimos Botanicals Primer Preps
Good
Afterglow Cosmetics Organic Aloe Concealer
Avon Mark Good Riddance Hook Up Concealer
bareFaced Mineral Cosmetics Mineral Concealer
bareMinerals Well Rested for Eyes
Jane Iredale Zap & Hide/Enlighten Concealer
Juice Beauty Correcting Concealer
Outside/In Cosmetics Mineral Colour Corrector (Can. co.)
Physicians Formula Organic Wear Natural Origin Concealer Stick
Revlon Concealer & Highlighter Light 300
Sappho Cosmetics Undo (British Columbia co.)
Signature Minerals Concealers
Simply Unscented
Almay Nearly Naked Coverup Stick (all cosmetics fragrance free)
The Body Shop Concealer
Boots Botanics Concealer Stick
Clinique All About Eyes Concealer (many products fragrance free)
CoverGirl Fresh Complexion Concealer/Smoothers Concealer
Marcelle Concealer Palette (all products fragrance free)
Physicians Formula Concealers/Gentle Cover Concealer Stick (many products fragrance free)
Revlon Age-Defying Makeup and Concealer Compact/Colorstay Under Eye Concealer
Eyeliners are made up of thickeners, such as wax, and plastic film formers that deposit the pigment onto the eyelid. Film formers can be acrylic polymers and PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone), classified by Environment Canada as a medium health priority. Aluminum and bronze powders, which can cause cancer and are toxic to the nervous system, are used for colour in some eyeliner products. As well, eyeliners may contain toxic coal tar colours such as FD&C Yellow 5. Phenoxyethanol and propylene glycol, which are in liquid eyeliners as emulsifiers, can irritate skin. Eyeliners also often contain parabens -- methylparaben, butylparaben and propylparaben, preservatives that can disrupt the human endocrine system. BHA, another common preservative in eyeliners, is a probable carcinogen that can be absorbed through the skin.
Best
Alima Pure Satin Matte Eyeliner
Coastal Classic Creations Eye Liner
Colorescience Genie Sparkle Colore
Earth's Beauty Eye Liner Pencil/Loose Eye Liner
Honeybee Gardens Jojoba Eye Liner Pencils
Jane Iredale Liquid Eye Liner
Johnny Concert LLC Organic Eyeliner
Larenim Eye Liner
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Eye Liner
Rejuva Minerals Eyeliner Pencil
Sappho Cosmetics Eye Liners (Can. co.)
Suncoat Natural Liquid Eyeliner (Can. co.)
Zosimos Botanicals Eye Pencils
Good
Afterglow Cosmetics Organic Pencil Eyeliner
Aveda Onecolor Plus Two
bareMinerals Eye Color
Beauty Wise Cosmetics Eye Defining Liner
Boots No. 7 Amazing Eyes Pencil/Stay Perfect Eye Liner
Borlind Caring Color Collection Eye Liner
Cosmic Tree Essentials Eye Shadows and Liners for Eyes (Can. co.)
Elegant Minerals Mineral Eye Shadow/Mineral Frosted Shadows
Giselle Cosmetics 8 Stack Collection
Gabriel Color Gabriel Eye Liner/Pure Eyeliner Pencil
JaDora Cosmetics Pencil Eyeliner
Lauren Brooke Mineral Cosmetiques Eye Liner Pencils
Logona Cosmetics Eye Defining Pencils/Liquid Eye Liner
L'Oreal Extra Intense Liquid Pencil Eye Liner
LUVU Beauty Powder Eyeliner (Can. co.)
Maybelline Define-A-Line Eye Liner
Monave Eye Liner Pencil
Nancy Bizzintino Natural Mineral Cosmetics Densify
Neutrogena Nourishing Eye Liner
Outside/In Cosmetics Eye Liners (Can. co.)
Pure Anada Luminous Minerals Shadows and Liners (Can. co.)
100% Pure Cream Stick Eyeliner Pencil/Creamy Liquid Eyeliner
Sante Cosmetics Kajel Eyeliner Pencil
Signature Minerals Eye Liner
Suncat Mineral Makeup Liners
Zuzu Luxe Liquid Eyeliner
Simply Unscented
Almay Eye Pencil/Eye Liner (all cosmetics fragrance free)
Avon Eye Liners
Bare Escentuals Eye Liner
Body Shop Liquid Eye Liner/Eye Definer (pencil)
Clinique Eyeliners (many products fragrance free)
Cover Girl Brow and Eye Makers
Marcelle Eyeliners (all products fragrance free)
Maybelline Lineworks Liquid Eye Liner
Physician's Formula Mineral Eye Liner Pencil
Eye shadows are used for the colours they provide, but artificial colours like
carcinogenic coal tar dyes are frequent allergens. One dye - FD&C Yellow No.
5 may cause severe reactions in people allergic to aspirin, and is potentially toxic
to the nervous system. Eye shadows that use iron oxides for colour are a better choice.
Talc, a carcinogen, is the main ingredient in many powdered eye shadows. As well as talc,
powdered silica is used in many brands. Both talc and and silica in powdered form can be
carcinogenic when inhaled. Silica is also a respiratory toxin. Eye shadow may also contain
dimethicone, a potentially harmful silicon-based polymer, which helps the powder stick to the
eyelid.
Cream eye shadows are made with petrochemicals like
mineral oil, an allergen that can be toxic to the immune system, petrolatum, which can be
contaminated with carcinogenic PAHS, and lanolin oil, an allergen that may
contain pesticide residues.
The glitter in eye shadows and eyeliners
is often created by adding finely ground particles of aluminum or bronze, both of which
have been linked with cancer and can be neurotoxic. In 2000, the Consumer Agency and
Ombudsman in Finland tested 49 eye shadows and found that they
all contained impurities of at least one of the metals lead, cobalt, nickel, chromium
and arsenic. Researchers say the amounts could cause allergic symptoms in
sensitive people, and, over the long term, could cause other people to become sensitive. BHA,
a probable carcinogen, is a preservative in a number of eyeshadows. Parabens,
which can disrupt the hormonal system, are also common preservatives in mainstream
eyeshadow products.
Best
Bare Escentuals Sun Proof Fun
Coastal Classic Creations Eye Shadow
Colorescience White Haute Ice Collection/Genie Spark Colore
Erth Minerals Eyeshadow
Healing Scents Mineral Eye Powder and Liner
Jane Iredale One for All Neutral Compact/Eye Shadow Kit/Eye Gloss
Johnny Concert LLC Mineral Eye Pigment
LoriannZ Eye Shadows (Can. co.)
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Eye Shadow
Rejuva Minerals Eye Shadow
RJ Mineral Cosmetics Eye Primer Gel
rms beauty Eye Shadow/Lip2Cheek Muse
Zosimos Botanicals Mineral Eye Shadow
Good
Afterglow Cosmetics Mineral Eye Shadow
Almay Pure Blends Eye Shadow
bareMinerals Eye Color
CARGO Eye Bronzer
Cosmic Tree Essentials Eye Shadows (Can. co.)
Earth's Beauty Mineral Colours Eye Shadow
Elegant Minerals Mineral Eye Shadows
Giselle Cosmetics 8 Stack Collection
LUVU Beauty Eye Shadow (Can. co.)
Mineralz Eye Shadows
L'Oreal Hip Cream Shadow Paint
Organic Wear Duo Eye Shadow
Outside/In Cosmetics (Can. co.)
Pure Anada Luminous Minerals/Velvet Matte Eye Colour (Can. co.)
Real Purity Eye Shadow
Revlon Limited Edition Collection Molten Metal Liquid Eye Shadow
Sappho Cosmetics Eye Shadow (Can. co.)
Smashbox Eyes for Eyes/Mother Earth Palette/Eye Shadow for Eyes
Simply Unscented
Almay Eye Shadows (all cosmetics fragrance free)
Clinique Eye Shadows (many products fragrance free)
Cover Girl Eye Color
Marcelle Eye Shadows (all products fragrance free)
Neutrogena Mineral Sheers for Eyes
Physician's Formula Eye Shadow
Mainstream powder products commonly contain talc or silica. Both talc and silica can be easily inhaled and cause respiratory problems when they are airborne. As well, face powders are frequently coloured with potentially toxic coal tar dyes, such as D&C Red 30 Lake and D&C Yellow Aluminum Lake. Other toxic ingredients in face powders include quaternium-15 and imidazolidinyl urea, two preservatives that can release carcinogenic formaldehyde, butylated hydroxy toluene (BHT), a preservative and fragrance masking ingredient which can cause allergic reactions, and lanolin, a skin irritant. Synthetic fragrances, which are added to many popular brands, can also cause contact dermatitis. Endocrine-disrupting parabens are common as preservatives in face powders, and, in a few products, triclosan, another hormone disrupting chemical, is added for its antibacterial properties.
Best
Afterglow Cosmetics Organic Setting Powder
Alima Pure Color Balancing Powder
Alison Raffaele Loose Powder
bareMinerals Mineral Veil
Coastal Classic Creations Loose Powders
Ecco Bella FlowerPower Face Color
Everyday Minerals Finishing Dust
Honeybee Gardens Pressed Mineral Powder Foundation
Larenim Finishing Powder
Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Finishing Powder/Silk Veil
LaurEss Optimal Coverage Concealer
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Foundation
Miessence Translucent Powder/Mineral Foundation Powder
Pure Anada Cosmetics Face Powders (Can. co.)
Outside/In Cosmetics Mineral Bronzer (Can. co.)
Rejuva Minerals Powder
Sappho Cosmetics Mineral Powder (Can. co.)
Zosimo's Botanicals Shimmer Dust
Good
Almay Line Smoothing Pressed Powder
Aubrey Organics Silken Earth Translucent Base/Body Shimmer
Cleure Loose Mineral Veil
Elegant Minerals Mineral Foundation
Jane Iredale Finishing Powder
L'Oreal Bare Natural Gentle Mineral Powder
LUVU Beauty Mineral Veil (Can. co.)
Organic Wear Pressed Powder
Physician's Formula Organic Wear Natural Origin Pressed Powder
Real Purity Pressed Powder
SunCat Natural Mineral Makeup Finishing Veils
Temptu Retouch Powder
Simply Unscented
Almay Pressed Powders/Nearly Naked Loose Powder (all cosmetics fragrance free)
Body Shop Loose Face Powder/Pressed Face Powder
Clinique Blended Face Powder (many products fragrance free)
Coty Airspun Fragrance Free Face Powder
Cover Girl Clean Fragrance Free Pressed Powder
Marcelle Face Powder (all products fragrance free)
The main inredients in many foundations are talc, silica and alumina, all respiratory irritants when inhaled as powders. Some foundations contain aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, an aluminum salt that is toxic to the nervous system. Because foundation is worn on the skin for many hours, products containing synthetic ingredients can cause skin problems. Mineral oil can block pores and promote cosmetic acne, and isopropyl myristate, a fatty compound, can irritate the skin and cause blackheads. Other ingredients in foundations that can irritate skin and cause allergies include propylene glycol, phenoxyethanol, BHT and triethanolamine (TEA). TEA can also be contaminated with cancer-causing nitrosamines. Parabens, which are often used as preservatives in foundations can disrupt the hormone system and have been found in breast cancer tumours. Another preservative, quaternium-15, can break down into formaldehyde, which is a carcinogen and sensitizer. Synthetic fragrances, which may also cause allergies, are often used to perfume foundations, and potentially toxic coal tar dyes may be added for colour.
Best
Alima Pure Balancing Primer Powder
CARGO Wet/Dry Foundation
Coastal Classic Creations Refreshing Mist Foundation Base Primer
Honeybee Gardens Pressed Mineral Powder Foundation
Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Silk Veil/Finishing Powder
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Liquid Primers
Nancy Bizzintino Natural Mineral Cosmetics
Outside/In Cosmetics Foundations (Can. co.)
Pure Anada Natural Mineral Foundation (Can. co.)
Physician's Formula Organic Wear Natural Origin Pressed Powder
Real Purity Creme Foundation
Rejuva Minerals Foundation
rms beauty Un Cover Up
Signature Minerals Concealer
SunCat Natural Mineral Makeup
Suncoat Natural Liquid Foundation (Can. co.)
Good
Afterglow Cosmetics Organic Mineral Foundation
Aubrey Organics Silken Earth
bareMinerals Prime Time Foundation Primer/Oil Control Foundation Primer
Cosmic Tree Essentials Mineral Foundation (Can. co.)
Earth's Beauty Mineral Colours Foundation Powder
Elegant Minerals Mineral Foundation
Giselle Cosmetics 8 Stack Collection
Jane Iredale Finish Powder/Liquid Minerals Foundation
Juice Beauty Perfecting Foundation
Logona Tinted Day Creams
L'Oreal Bare Natural Gentle Mineral Powder
LoriannZ Foundation (Can. co.)
Luminous Primer
Maybelline Mineral Power Powder Foundation
Miessence Mineral Foundation Powder/Translucent Foundation
Organic Wear Pressed Powder
Radiant Minerals Foundation
Sappho Cosmetics Mineral Foundation (Can. co.)
Zosimos Botanicals Primer Prep
Simply Unscented
Almay Foundations (all cosmetics fragrance free)
Body Shop All in One Face Base
Clinique Foundations (many products fragrance free)
Cover Girl Clean Fragrance Free Liquid Make-Up/Foundation/Pressed Powder
LORAC Wet/Dry Powder Makeup Foundation
Marcelle Foundations (all products fragrance free)
Revlon Colorstay Liquid Foudation
Lip Gloss, Balms and Protectors
(in Skin Products)
A woman may ingest more than four pounds of lipstick in her lifetime - even more
if she wears it every day. Mainstream lipsticks are composed of synthetic oils,
petroleum waxes and artificial colours. The colours usually come from coal tar dyes, which
can cause skin irritation and allergies, and some may cause cancer. Lead is often found
as an impurity in the colours used in lipstick. Testing in 2008 by Health Canada found that
21 of 26 lipsticks contained lead. Lead is extremely toxic to the nervous system and can cause
developmental problems for children. Lead was also detected in lip gloss and lip
conditioners. Similarly, tests conducted by Canada's Environmental Defence in 2011
found traces of lead, arsenic, cadmium and other heavy metals in lip tints and glosses.
In addition, these tests showed that not only lip products but all face makeup including products
such as foundation, concealers and eyeliners contained traces of some heavy metals, with the
exeption of one product.
Lipsticks are often preserved with parabens, which have been found in breast cancer
tumours. BHA, a probable carcinogen, and BHT are also common ingredients in lipsticks because they
preserve the colour of the product. Sunscreen agents,
such as the hormone-disrupting chemicals oxybenzone and octinoxate, as well as
Padimate O and retinyl palmitate, are added to many popular brands. Retinyl palmitate
is a skin conditioning agent, which under ultraviolet light can break down to produce
free radicals and damage DNA. Synthetic fragrances are also common in name brand
lipsticks. Beeswax or olive oil are used in place of petroleum wax and synthetic oil
in many of the lipsticks
identified as "best" and "good".
Best
Aubrey Organics Natural Lips
Badger Lip Tints and Shimmers
Boots No. 7 Mineral Perfection Lipstick
Coastal Classic Creations Lipstick
Cosmic Tree Essentials Lip Care Confections Lipstick (Nova Scotia co.)
Hemp Organics Lipsticks/Lip Liners
Herbal Choice Mari Lip Color
Honeybee Gardens Truly Natural Lipstick/JobaColors Lip Liner
Janbenham Lipstick (Toronto co. www.aromashoppe.com)
Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Lip Liner Pencil
Lavera Beautiful Lips Lipstick
LoriannZ Lipsticks (Can. co.)
Miessence Lip Creme/Shimmer Creme
Pure Anada Cosmetics Natural Lipstick (Can. co.)
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Lip Glaze/Creamsticks/Lip and Cheek Tint
Primitive Natural Lipsticks/Lip Pencils
Real Purity Lipstick/Lip Gloss
Suki Luscious Lips Berry Cream Trio
Good
Afterglow Cosmetics Organic Lip Love Lipstick
Alba Botanica Terragloss/Terratints
barefaced Mineral Cosmetics Natural Lipstick
bareMinerals 100% Natural Lip Color
Beauty with a Cause Lipstick
Boots No. 7 Stay Perfect Lip Lacquer
CARGO + care Lip Base
Cleure High Impact Mineral Lipstick
Colorescience Genie Sparkle Colore
Earth's Beauty Shea & Aloe Lipstick
Giselle Cosmetics
Green Beauty Cosmetics Lip Tint
Jane Iredale Lip Fixation
Johnny Concert LLC Narcissistic Lipstick
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Lipstick
Outside/In Cosmetics Organic Mineral Lipstick (Can. co.)
Peacekeeper Lip Paint
Perfect Organics Lip and Cheek Shimmer
Physician's Formula Organic Wear Lip Veil
rms beauty Lip2Cheek
Signature Minerals Lip Butter
Simply Pure Products Lip Puddles/Twists
Zosimos Botanicals Lipstick
Zuii Organic Lipstick
Simply Unscented
Almay Lipstick (all cosmetics fragrance free)
Body Shop Colorglide Lip/Lip Liners (pencil)/Delipscious Sheer Lip Colour
Clinique Lipstick (many products fragrance free)
Marcelle Rouge Vitality/Rouge Expression Lipstick (all products fragrance free)
Max Factor Color Perfection Lipsticks/Lipcolors
Smashbox Photo Finish Lipstick
Makeup removers may contain a variety of hazardous ingredients. Some companies add polyethylene glycol and ceteareth, both of which can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, and 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen. Makeup removers may also contain DMDM hydantoin, which may release carcinogenic formaldehyde, the skin irritant propylene glycol and even potentially toxic coal tar colours. Most brands are preserved with parabens, which are estrogen-mimicking chemicals that can disrupt the endocrine system. Fragrances are also frequently added to makeup removers.
Best
Aubrey Organics 100% Pure Jojoba Oil Make-up Remover
Green Beaver Eye Make-Up Remover (Can. co.)
Herbal Choice Mari Makeup Remover
Healing Scents Eye Makeup Remover
Jane Iredale Dot the i
Jasco Organics Remove Gentle Makeup Remover
Kaylala Dew Creme Cleanser
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Makeup Remover
Mindful Beauty Organic Sweet Almond Oil
Nurture My Body Cleansing Milk Fragrance Free
L'Occitane Shea Ultra Comforting Cleansing Milk
Organic Essence Certified Organic Shea Cream
Real Purity Eye Makeup Remover
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Transformative Cleansing Oil (Can. co.)
Zosimos Botanicals Makeup Remover and Cleanser
Good
Albolene Cleanser Unscented
Avalon Organics CoQ10 Skin Care Facial Cleansing Milk
Avon Mark Make It Go Away Makeup Removing Wipes
Beauty Without Cruelty Eye Makeup Remover
Cleure Facial Cleanser
Earth Science Makeup Remover/Eye Makeup Remover- Green Tea or Chamomile
Ecco Bella Botanicals Cleansing Milk & Makeup Remover
Olivier Soapery Femme Makeup Remover
Physicians Formula Eye Makeup Remover Pads
Simply Unscented
Almay Hypoallergenic Eye Make-up Remover Pads (all cosmetics fragrance free)
bareMinerals On the Spot Makeup Remover
Clinique (many products fragrance free)
Klorane Wild Cornflower Eye Make-up Remover
Marcelle Eye Make-up Remover (all products fragrance free)
Revlon Eye Makeup Eraser Pen
RoC Eye Make-up Remover (all products fragrance free)
 Home-made alternativesEye Makeup Remover 1 Tbsp castor oil 1 Tbsp light olive oil 1 tsp vegetable oil (sunflower, safflower, etc) Blend ingredients. Use to remove makeup around the eyes. |
 TipsUse jojoba oil to remove make-up and lipstick. |
Conventional mascara is made up of waxes for thickening eyelashes, pigments for colour and filmifying polymers that keep the mascara on the lashes. Water-resistant mascara is likely to contain isododecane, a volatile solvent, while non water-resistant mascara is usually based on water.
Mascaras can contain many irritating and potentially toxic ingredients, including petroleum distillates, which can be contaminated with the carcinogen butadiene, BHA, an antioxidant considered a probable human carcinogen, phenoxyethanol, an allergen and skin irritant, and propylene glycol, an allergen which can cause contact dermatitis, eye irritation and enhances skin absorption. Synthetic plastics, such as styrene PVP copolymer and sodium polymethacrylate, which can be toxic and reactive, are used in many products to lengthen lashes as well as to fix the mascara. Many conventional mascaras contain triethanolamine (TEA), which is toxic to the immune system and may react with other ingredients to form cancer-causing nitrosamines. Parabens, like methylparaben and butylparaben, both of which mimic estrogen and can disrupt the endocrine system, are common preservatives in mascara.
Best
Afterglow Cosmetics Pure Soul Mascara
Coastal Classic Creations Mascara
Cleure Mineral Mascara
Earth Lab Mascara
Lavera Volume Mascara
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Mascara
Miessence Mascara
Nvey Eco Organic Mascara (Australian co.)
Rejuva Minerals Mascara
Suncoat Products Natural Mascara (Can. co.)
Zuzu Luxe Mascara
Good
Borlind Caring Color Collection Mascara
Earth's Beauty Mascara
Ecco Bella Botanicals Mascara
EcoGlo Minerals Mascara
Gourmet Body Treats Mascara
Honey Bee Gardens Truly Natural Mascara
Jane Iredale Purebrow Fix & Mascara/Pure Lash Mascara
Living Nature Cosmetics Conditioning Mascara
LoriannZ Lucky Lash Mascara (Can. co.)
Monave Natural Mascara
Nancy Bizzintino Natural Mineral Cosmetics Prime Lash
Physicians Formula Ultra Dramatic Mascara
Pure Anada Mascara (Can. co.)
100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Mascara
L'Oreal Double Extend Waterproof Lash Fortifier and Extender
Origins Underwear for Lashes
Raw Earth Natural Beauty
Real Purity Mascara
Revlon Lash Jewels Eye Accents/3D Waterproof Extreme Mascara
Smashbox Bionic Mascara
Terra Firma Cosmetics "Stacked" Natural Mascara
Simply Unscented
Almay Mascara (all cosmetics fragrance free)
Body Shop Define and Lengthen Mascara/
Brow and Lash Tint
Clinique Lash Power/High Impact Mascara (many products fragrance free)
Marcelle Power Volume Mascara (all products fragrance free)
Dental and Oral Hygiene
Most dental floss is made of nylon, a petroleum product, and coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). PTFE is related to the coating on non-stick cookware, a chemical which is considered to be carcinogenic. Unwaxed floss or floss with a natural wax coating, such as beeswax, are better alternatives to PTFE.
Best (silk or wood)
Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Dental Floss/Dental Tape
Dr. Collin's Dental Work Unwaxed Floss
Dr. Ken's Dental Floss
EcoDent Vegan Floss Premium Dental Floss
Radius Natural Silk Floss
Tom's of Maine Naturally Waxed Anti-Plaque Floss
Unwaxed floss of any type
No alternatives to mainstream products were found.
|
Home-made alternatives Soak dentures in 3 percent hydrogen peroxide and water, mixed half and half.
Soak dentures in a mixture of warm water and vinegar mixed half and half, brushing and
rinsing them before using. |
Conventional mouthwash is often alcohol-based with an alcohol content ranging from 18 to 26%. Products with alcohol can contribute to cancers of the mouth, tongue and throat when used regularly. In 2009, a review in the Dental Journal of Australia confirmed that alcohol-based mouthwashes contribute to an increased risk of oral cancers.
Fluoride (listed as sodium fluoride) may be added to protect against cavities. In some animal studies, sodium fluoride has been shown to be neurotoxic and possibly carcinogenic. Mouthwashes are usually sweetened with artificial sugars such as saccharin (listed as sodium saccharin), a suspect carcinogen, or sucralose, which may trigger migraines and other problems in sensitive people. As well, mouthwashes can contain synthetic flavours and colours, such as FD&C Blue 1 and FD&C Green 3.
Best (no alcohol, fluoride, artificial colours or sweeteners)
Anarres Natural Candy Cane Mouthwash (Toronto company)
Auromere Ayurvedic Mouthwash
Beauty with a Cause Mouthwash
Jason Natural Cosmetics Tea Tree Oil Mouthwash
Dr. Katz TheraBreath Oral Rinses
Hakeem Herbal Mouthwash (based on neem)
Miessence Freshening Mouthwash
Good (no alcohol)
Colgate Phos-Flur Anti-Cavity Fluoride Rinse (contains sodium fluoride and sorbitol)
Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Mouthwash
EcoDent Natural Daily Rinse (active ingredient is baking soda)
Herbal Choice Mari Mouthwash
Healing Scents Mouthwash
Listerine Agent Cool Blue Tinting Rinse
TheraNeem Herbal Moutwash
Thursday Plantation Tea Tree Mouthwash (contains sorbitol)
Tom's of Maine Natural Baking Soda Mouthwash (contains menthol)
Xyliwhite Mouthwash (contains xylitol)
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Home-made Alternatives
Rosemary-Mint Mouthwash |
The main ingredients in conventional toothpaste are sodium fluoride to prevent cavities and abrasives like hydrated silica for cleaning and polishing the teeth. In animal studies, sodium fluoride has been associated with both cancer and neurotoxicity. Like mouthwashes, toothpastes are generally sweetened with artificial sugars such as saccharin and sucralose, and coloured with dyes such as Blue #1 and Yellow #5. To create foam, manufacturers add sodium laurel sulfate, which may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen. Propylene glycol, which can cause contact dermatitis at very low concentrations, is also a common ingredient in toothpaste. Triclosan may be added for its antibacterial properties. Triclosan is a possible endocrine disrupting chemical and has been shown in animal studies to harm the thyroid.
Best (no sodium fluoride, artificial sweeteners, dyes, detergents or triclosan)
Anarres Natural Health Own Tooth Powder/Toothpaste (Toronto company)
Alternative Oral Care Tooth Powder
Arganat All Natural Clay Toothpaste
Druide Toothpaste (contains sorbitol from natural sources)
Green Beaver Organic Toothpaste (Canadian company)
Hakeem Herbal Toothpaste (contains only herbs and neem)
Healing Scents Toothpaste
Ipsab Tooth Powder
Miessence Toothpaste
Nature's Gate Creme de Anise Toothpaste
Solay Smile Tooth Powder
Tooth Chips Soap for Teeth
Tooth Soap Peppermint Liquid
Good (fluoride free but may contain 1 or 2 Common Hazardous Ingredients)
Arm & Hammer Teeth Whitening Booster Toothpaste
Auromere Ayurvedic Toothpaste
Desert Essence Natural Tea Tree Oil Toothpastes
Dr. Sheffield's Tooth White Tooth Paste
EcoDent International Toothpowder
First Teeth Baby Toothpaste
Healing Scents Toothpaste
HeavenScent Naturals Natural Tooth Powder
Jason Toothpaste
Just the Goods Vegan Toothpaste
Kiss My Face Toothpaste
Lavera Natural Tooth Gel Toothpaste
Nature's Gate Creme de Peppermint and Creme de Mint Toothpastes (others contain sodium fluoride and parabens)
Newco Natural Toothpaste (Calgary company - contains tea tree oil)
Peelu Peelu Toothpaste
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Home-made Alternatives Brush with plain baking soda or salt. Brush with 2 parts baking soda and 1 part salt mixed to a fine powder in a blender.
Herbal toothpaste
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Do not scrub teeth vigorously with toothpaste containing chalk (calcium carbonate) as it can wear away enamel. The main way to remove plaque is flossing, not brushing. Brushing with plain water is sufficient as long as you floss. |
Over-the-counter tooth bleaching products generally rely on hydrogen peroxide, carbamide peroxide or urea peroxide to whiten teeth. These ingredients, particularly in higher concentrations, may cause an increase in tooth sensitivity or mild irritation of soft tissue in the mouth, such as gums. Hydrogen peroxide is a neurotoxin and possible endocrine disruptor. The European Scientific Committee on Consumer Products recommended that home tooth bleaching products contain no more than 6% hydrogen peroxide. Some commercial products also contain sweeteners such as sodium saccharin or sucralose. Whitening toothpastes do not generally contain peroxide, but help whiten teeth using small particles to grind the dirt off. Because there are no long-term studies on the safety of tooth whiteners, limited use of these products would be wise.
Good
Arm & Hammer Dental Care Whitening Booster
Crest Whitestrips Dental Whitening Formula/Dental Whitening System Strips
|
Brush your teeth with baking soda to remove stains. Just wet your brush, dip it into some baking soda and
brush as usual (it will taste salty). Then rinse out. It's not necessary to do it every day once stains are
removed. Occasionally, like once or twice a week, works well.
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Feminine Hygiene
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The active ingredient in many douches is a cleansing agent called octoxynol. Octoxynol is an ethoxylated alkyl phenol which can cause skin irritation, disrupt the endocrine system and can be contaminated with ethylene dioxide, a known carcinogen, and 1.4-dioxane, a possible carcinogen. As well, preservatives such as parabens, which can also disrupt the endocrine system, and the potentially neurotoxic methylisothiazoline are used in "personal cleansing" products such as douches.
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Tampons, Pads and other Menstrual Products
Feminine hygiene products may contain deodorants and absorbency enhancers, as well as artificial fragrances that can irritate the genital area. After tampons were found to be associated with toxic shock syndrome, manufacturers eliminated some ingredients so that tampons are now made of a simpler formulation of cotton and viscose rayon. The exact components of tampons and pads are trade secrets. Bleaching processes have also improved, but bleached cotton and rayon in pads and tampons can still be contaminated with traces of dioxin, a carcinogen created during the bleaching process. Safer alternatives include organic cotton pads and tampons, sponges and menstrual cups.
Best
DivaCup Menstrual Cup (made of silicone)(Canadian co.) www.divacup.com
Glad Rags 100% organic undyed cotton washable pads www.gladrags.com
Jade & Pearl Menstrual Sea Sponge Tampons
Goddess Moons cotton washable reusable pads (B.C. co.) www.goddessmoons.com
The Keeper Menstrual Cup (reusable natural gum rubber) and Moon Cup (made of silicone for women
with latex sensitivities) www.thekeeper.com
Lunapads 100% cotton washable pads (sold at P’Lovers in Halifax and the Big Carrot in
Toronto) www.lunapads.com
Mother and Maiden washable cloth pads (Can. co.) www.diaperware.com
Organyc 100% Organic Cotton Tampons/100% Organic Cotton Pads (not reusable)
Natracare 100% organic cotton Tampons, Pads, Panty Shields (not reusable)
Seventh Generation Chlorine Free Organic Cotton Tampons (not reusable) www.seventhgeneration.com
Softcup Reusable Menstrual Cup www.softcup.com
Simply Unscented
Choose unscented conventional products.
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Home-made Alternatives Make-your-own cloth menstrual pads: Cut out 3 layers of 100% cotton fabric, such as flanelette or terry cloth, into an 8 1/2"x10" rectangle. Round corners. Pile together. Stitch all around using either a zigzag stitch or a serge stitch. Cut out 2 wings 6"x6" shaped like this =O=. Fold each wing in half, and stitch all raw edges. Centre wings on the pad about 2 1/4" from either long edge, with straight edge of wings facing straight edge of the pad with wings overlapping. Sew a straight seam, catching in the wings 2 1/2" from both long edges. Either sew Velcro on wings or use hammer-on snaps. Fold the pad in thirds, and fasten the wings underneath the fold. Now you have a superabsorbent 9-layer menstrual pad that opens up for easy washing and quick drying! (from www.borntolove.com) |
Hair Care
Most mainstream and many “natural” conditioners rely on quaternary compounds to produce thicker, tangle-free silky hair. These compounds - cetrimonium bromide and quaternium 18 - can be irritating to eyes and skin. Quaternary compounds and other preservatives found in conditioners, such as DMDM hydantoin, imidiazolidinyl urea and diazolidinyl urea, release formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. Other ingredients to avoid: carcinogenic coal tar colours (FD&C), parabens, ceteareth 20, propylene glycol, cinnamate sunscreens, and retinyl palmitate. Most conventional conditioners contain fragrance, a synthetic mix likely to include endocrine disrupting phthalates and other hazardous chemicals.
Best
Alaffia Conditioners
Aubrey Organics 100% Pure & Certified Organic Jojoba Oil/White Camellia Oil Soothing
Emollient/Rose Mosqueta Rose Hip Seed Oil Moisturizing Nutrient
Botanical Therapeutic Moisturizing Conditioner
Coastal Classic Creations Conditioner
Curelle Treslite Conditioner/Riche Conditioner (both unscented)/Build-up Remover
Desert Essence Jojoba Oil
Dr. Bronner's Magic Organic Citrus Hair Rinse
Druide Conditioner
EarthSafe Rich Earth/Purifying Fire/Fresh Water/Clean Air(unscented) Conditioners
(Can. co.) www.earthsafe.ca
Earth Spirit Organics Botanical Conditioner/Naturally Unscented Conditioner (Can. co.) www.earthspiritcatalogue.com
Green Beaver Conditioners (Can. company)
Healing Scents Conditioner (available unscented)
Honey Coconut Milk Conditioner
Kogi Rosemary Mint Conditioner/Unscented Conditioner (Can. co.)
Miessence Hair Conditioner/Protect Hair Repair
Nature’s Blends Daily Light Conditioner/Deep Conditioner
Nurture My Body Conditioner (available Fragrance Free)
Oneka Lavender Conditioner/Citrus Conditioner/Unscented Conditioner (Can. co.) www.onekaelements.com
Pure and Natural Conditioners
Real Purity Conditioning Rinse (available through www.raindancecosmetics.ca)
Zosimos Conditioner
Good
Alba Botanica Hair Conditioner
Atlantic Healing Hemp Seawinds Conditioner (Nova Scotia co.)
Aubrey Organics Conditioners
Beauty Without Cruelty Conditioners
Burt's Bees Hair Repair Shea & Grapefruit Deep Conditioner
Caribbean Solutions Conditioner
Carina Botanical Therapeutic Moisturizing Conditioner
DHS Conditioning Rinse with Panthenol
Earth Science Pure Essentials Fragrance Free Conditioner
EO Conditioners
Giovanni Hair Care Direct
Jane Iredale Truly Pure Shampoo and Conditioner
John Masters Citrus & Neroli Detangler/Rosemary & Peppermint Detangler/Bare Unscented Detangler (available Unscented)
Juice Organics Brightening Conditioner/Pom Smooth Conditioner (available at Rexall stores)
Juni Gentle Conditioner
Kiss My Face Conditioners
Nana Essence Conditioner
Nature Clean Herbal Conditioner Unscented
Secrets of Tulum Chili & Soy/Tomato and Soy/Cactus and Soy Conditioners (Canadian co.)
TheraNeem Organix Conditioner
Simply Unscented
Granny's Soft and Silky Conditioner
Jason Natural Cosmetics Fragrance Free Daily Conditioner
Magick Botanicals Oil Free Conditioner/Conditioner for Thinning Hair
Stonybrook Botanicals Conditioner Unscented
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Home-made Alternatives
Conditioner: Pour 1 cup of warm beer over hair, then rinse with water. For extra conditioning, a teaspoon of jojoba oil can be added to the beer. Mayonnaise Conditioner: Massage mayonnaise into hair, coating every strand. Cover hair with plastic bag for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water. Dry Scalp Conditioner: Massage plain yogurt into your hair, especially the scalp. Cover with a plastic bag for 30 minutes. Rinse with warm water. Henna Treatment: Pour 1/2 cup of boiling water over 1/4 cup of colourless henna and 2 teaspoons of honey. Let sit a few minutes to thicken. Coat each strand of hair, cover with a plastic bag and wrap with a warm towel. Shampoo after 1 hour. Conditioner: Mix 1 egg yolk, 1 small container of yoghourt and 1 tablespoon of honey. Apply to hair, wrap in towel for 15 minutes, then rinse. Cider Vinegar Conditioner: Mix 1/2 cup cider vinegar with 1 1/2 cups cool water in a bottle. After shampooing and rinsing, pour the vinegar rinse through your hair, taking care not to get it in your eyes. It should remove buildup on your hair and leave it shiny and smooth. Hot Oil Treatment: Warm 1/2 cup soybean or sunflower oil and apply it to damp hair. Wrap your hair in plastic and apply a hot towel for 20 minutes. Shampoo hair. Before warming the oil, 5 drops of rosemary or 10 drops of lavender oil may be added to the original oil. (adapted from Longlocks Hair Care Recipes Cookbook at www.longlocks.com) |
A study by the Harvard School of Public Health suggested that women who use hair dyes five
or more times a year have twice the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Many hair colouring
products contain coal tar dyes, some of which are suspected carcinogens. Darker, more permanent
dyes pose a greater risk. Studies have shown that using permanent hair dyes regularly over
a long period of time is associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer, non-Hodgkins
lymphoma and multiple myeloma. A study by the National Cancer Institute in 1992 found the use
of permanent hair dyes could be linked to 20% of all cases of non-Hodgkins lymphoma in
women. As well, women using hair dyes at least once a month doubled their risk of bladder
cancer, according to a 2001 study by researchers at the University of Southern California. To
reduce the risk of bladder cancer from hair dyes, the European Union in 2006 banned 22 hair dye
substances, but these substances have not been restricted in North American products.
In addition, almost all permanent hair dyes contain PPD, or p-phenylenediamine, to make the dye work. PPD can often cause serious skin irritation and is suspected of causing cancer. Products sold in Canada containing PPD must be labelled with warnings that dyeing eyelashes or eyebrows can cause blindness. Resorcinal is another common ingredient in conventional hair colouring products. It is a skin irritant, toxic to the immune system and a frequent cause of allergic reactions to hair dyes. It is also an endocrine disrupting chemical. In a few dark formulas marketed in the US to men, there may even be lead acetate in hair colouring products. Fragrance and preservatives are also added to conventional hair dyes. Hair colouring products that use henna, cassia or indigo offer non-toxic alternatives.
Best (contain henna, cassia or indigo)
Coastal Classic Creations Indigo for Hair Coloring
Light Mountain Natural Hair Colours
Logona Herbal Henna Hair Colors
Morocco Method International Henna
Pure Hands and Clean Hearts Soap Company Henna
Rainbow Research Henna Hair Dye
Good
(also henna, cassia or indigo)
Aubrey Organics Color Me Natural
Colora Henna
Less Toxic Alternatives
(may contain small amounts of PPD)
Baka Beauty Natural Colors
Naturcolor Hair Color Gel to cover grey hair
Sanotint Natural Hair Color
Tints of Nature (contains natural banana fragrance)
Simply Unscented
Baka Beauty Natural Colors Unscented
Herbatint (no fragrance or ammonia)
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Oils, pomades, daily moisturizers, leave-in conditioner and creams will make the hair feel more soft and flexible. It is especially important to add them to permed or straightened hair which has been stripped of some of its ability to oil itself. However, hair pomade usually contains wax and petroleum-based oils that tend to clog pores. These oils are less easily absorbed into the hair and attract dust. Hazardous chemicals to avoid in conventional hair oils and conditioning products include fragrance, oxybenzone, parabens, DMDM hydantoin, ceteareth 20 and 25, propylene glycol and diazolidinyl urea.
Best (contain natural oils)Alaffia Shea Butter Sculpting Wax
B.A.R.E. Herbal Hair Oil (unscented)
Bumble and Bumble Defrizz
Burt's Bees Outdoor Miracle Salve
Carol's Daughter Khoret Amen Hair Oil
Coastal Classic Creations Leave-in Hair Shaping Treatment
Dax Premium Styling Pressing Oil
Goodness Essentials Hair Pomade
Hamadi Shea Pomade
Kynk Hair Honey (Canadian co. making shea butter products)
Shear Miracles Body Care Hair Milk
Sigrid Wild Mane Hair Oil (Canadian co.)
Suncoat Natural Anti-Fritz Calming Serum (Canadian co.)
Wise Ways African Hair Oil/Goldilock Hair Oil/Crowning Glory Hair Cream
GoodAubrey Organics NuStyle Organic Hair-Smoothing Serum
Darcy's Botanicals Organic Coconut Butter Styling Pomade
Dr. Bronner's Magic Organic Hair Creme
Giovanni Magnetic Force Styling Wax
Jason Citrus and Mandarin Wax Pomade
Serenity Skincare Leave-in Hair Treatment
VO5 Hair Dress Gray/White
Weleda Rosemary Hair Oil
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Home-made Alternatives
Shea butters, jojoba oil, sunflower oil and olive oil can all be used as hair oils or leave-in conditioners. Hot oil hair treatment: Combine 1 teaspoon soybean oil and 2 teaspoons castor oil. Warm on low heat.
Massage mixture into scalp and hair. Wrap hair in a hot towel for 15 minutes.
Shampoo & rinse. |
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Oils are best applied to wet hair to help hold in the moisture already there. Creams or leave-in conditioners can be used on days when you don't wash or wet your hair. The type of oil or cream you use in your hair is going to depend on your hair type. It may take some experimenting to find what works best for you. The time of year and your hair's exposure to the elements may vary your routine. |
Hair Relaxers and Straighteners
Relaxing or straightening the hair can be done with blow dryers, hot combs or flat irons.
However, chemicals are the popular choice for a more permanent effect. Three types of
chemicals are generally used -- sodium hydroxide, guanidine hydroxide, and ammonium
thioglycolate, all of which have damaging effects.
These include scalp irritation, skin burns, permanent scarring, deep ulcerations, skin drying and cracking, dermatitis, irreversible baldness, eye damage including blindness and weak, dry, broken and damaged hair. Hair straighteners along with hair dyes are the cause of more complaints to the US Food and Dug Administration's Cosmetic Office than any other product.
Relaxers, whether with or without lye, have a very high pH (near the top of the scale). In other words, they are caustic. Relaxers work because they break the bonds that actually give strength to the hair. This causes the hair to straighten. Therefore, relaxed hair is, by definition, weaker than natural hair. Relaxers also deplete the hair of sebum (the oil your scalp secretes). Combine that with heat and you can really end up with a problem. Hair that has been straightened will be weaker than if it were natural and will be more prone to problems.
For years, the main chemical used in hair straighteners has been sodium hydroxide - a powerful alkaline caustic otherwise known as lye. Sodium hydroxide is used in products like Drano to dissolve hair in drains. It's also used in depilatories to dissolve hair.
Newer "no-lye"products are also now on the shelves. Some contain quanidine hydroxide, a mixture of calcium hydroxide and guanidine carbonate. While this chemical combination is not lye, it is very similar and has the same effect chemically on the hair. Advertising leads people to believe these chemicals are much safer when in fact they only damage the hair slightly less and cause less scalp irritation, but they can still burn the scalp if used incorrectly.
A third chemical, ammonium thioglycolate, known as the "thio relaxer", is less drastic than sodium hydroxide, and, in some cases, than guanadine hydroxide, but it also breaks down the bonds in hair.
The FDA has received complaints about scalp irritation and hair breakage related to both lye and "no lye" relaxers. The same safety rules should apply to any type of relaxer. They should be left on no longer than the prescribed time, carefully washed out with neutralizing shampoo, and followed up with regular conditioning. Hair care experts recommend that straighteners be applied by a professional in a salon setting and that extra care be taken to keep straightened hair healthy.
In addition to the concerns about the active ingredients, chemical hair straighteners have also been found to contain other hazardous ingredients, including formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen that has been found at high levels in a hair straightener called Brazilian Blowout. Hair straighteners may also contain parabens, polypropylene and glycols, as well as sodium laurel sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate.
As well, a relaxer must be used with a neutralizing shampoo and conditioner whether applied at home or in a salon. Conventional shampoos and conditioners found in hair straightening kits contain the same ingredients found in conventional shampoos and conditioners, whose health effects are detailed in those sections.
Less Toxic Alternatives
Baka Beauty Hair Relaxer (US mail order- www.treasuredlocks.com)
Creme of Nature with Argan Oil
Sensitive By Nature Scalp Balm (pre-relaxer protector)
For information about healthier hair care for Afro-American hair check out www.treasuredlocks.com/blhacafa.html.
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Home-made Alternatives
Use the heat from blow dryers, hot combs and flat irons to straighten hair. Even a curling iron with a wide diameter barrel held backwards can straighten hair. |
Hair styling products include hair sprays, styling gels and mousses.
Hair sprays and other styling products rely on polymers and solvents for their ability to hold hair, and are often applied with aerosols or pump sprays. Aerosols suspend fine particles in a gas, which propels the spray onto the hair. Isobutane, which can be contaminated with the carcinogen, butadiene, or propane are the gases typically used as propellants. Pump sprays, on the other hand, mix liquid with a small amount of air and use springs, valves and tubes to create a spray. Both aerosol and pump sprays produce fine droplets which can be inhaled deeply into the lungs and transferred into the bloodstream. Hazardous ingredients contained in the formulation of the spray can pose a higher risk if they are inhaled as fine particulate matter. Inhalation of spray can also cause respiratory irritation and breathing difficulties. If you use a spray, choose pump over aerosol as spray droplets are slightly larger. Hair setting lotions are a better choice.
Hair sprays, styling gels and mousses keep the hair in place by coating it with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), a plastic polymer, and using solvents to dissolve it in solution and keep the film flexible on the hair. PVP is classified by Environment Canada as a medium health priority. Phthalates, which can affect reproduction, may be used as solvents in sprays but are not listed as ingredients. Other hazardous ingredients in hair styling products include TEA, and potentially toxic FD&C colours. Ethoxylated alcohols and PEG compounds, also common in hair styling products may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen. Parabens, which can disrupt the endocrine system, are used as preservatives in hair sprays, and DMDM hydantoin, a formaldehyde releasing chemical, is a popular preservative in other styling products such as mousses. Fragrance, which is a mixture of many unknown toxins, is added to most conventional hair styling products.
Best
Aloe Vera Gel (any pure product)
Burt's Bees Outdoor Miracle Salve
Coastal Classic Creations Coastal Gardens Toner
Coconut Oil (any pure brand)
Curelle Styling Gel
Druide Herbal Styling Gel/Alcohol Free Hairspray
Favor Care Organics Styling Spray
Giovanni Hair Care Styling Gel/Hair Care Styling Natural Mousse
Healing Scents Herbal Essences Tangles Out
Hugo Naturals Mist
Miessence Shape Styling Gel/Protect Hair Repair
Morocco Method International Hair Spray
Pretty Natural Braid and Loc Spray/Press Curl and Blow Dry Cream
Real Purity Natural Styling Gel
Salon Naturals Instant Shine Hair Serum/Styling Gels (Natural Hold and Ultra Hold)
Smooth & Moisturizer Hair Balm
Shear Miracles by Robyn Organic Body Care
Suncoat Natural Styling Mousse/Gel/Spray (Can.co.)
Good
Alba Botanica Hair Style Cream/Hair Style Gel
Aubrey Organics Men's Stock Organic Hair Control/NuStyle Organic Hair Spray/Natural Missst
Herbal Hair Spray (regular hold, super hold)/NuStyle Organic Hair Smoothing Serum/Mandarin
Magic Ginkgo Leaf & Ginseng Root Hair
Moisturizing Jelly/B-5 Design Gel/Primrose Tangle-Go Hair Conditioner, Lusterizer & Styling
Spray
Botanical Therapeutic Natural Hair Spray
Beauty Without Cruelty Hair Spray
Burt's Bees Natural Skin Care for Men Hair Gel
Deva Curl Herbal Cleaning Tonic
Dr. Bronner's Magic Organic Lavender Coconut Hair Creme/Magic Organic
Peppermint Hair Creme
Giovanni Hold Spritz
Healing Scents Styling Gels
Jason Natural Cosmetics Salon Texturizing Cream - Aloe Vera & Bergamot
Kiss My Face Upper Management Styling Gel
Real Purity Herbal Hair Spray
Serenity Skincare Spritz Detangler
Simply Organic Volume Spray
VO 5 Hair Dress Gray/White
Simply Unscented
Adorn Hair Spray Unscented
Alberto VO5 Hard to Hold Crystal Clear Hair Spray
Clairol Final Net Hair Spray/Regular Hold/Non-Aerosol Extra Hold/Condition
3-in-1 Aerosol Hair Spray Extra Hold
Dove Unscented Extra Hold Hair Spray
Finesse Self-Adjusting Unscented Hair Spray
K-Y Jelly
Magic Botanicals Styling Gel/Hair Spray (both fragrance free)
Pantene Pro-V Classic Unscented Non-Aerosol Hair Spray
Salon Selectives Sit Still Medium Hold Finishing Spray (pump)
Vitalis Hair Spray for Men Unscented
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Home-made Alternatives Hair Styling Gel - Mix together 2 cups boiling water, and 1 teaspoon powdered gelatin in 1 teaspoon vinegar. Strain through coffee filter and put in sprayer bottle. Lemon Hair Spray - Squeeze juice of 1 medium lemon into 2 cups of water. Slice up lemon peel and add. Boil slowly until reduced to 1 cup. Strain and pour into spray bottle. Keep in fridge. For extra hold use 1 1/2 lemons.
Flax Seed Gel- Boil 2 tablespoons of flax seed in 1/3 cup water for 10 minutes.
Rub through hair sparingly. |
Using permanent waves or perms to curl straight hair is just as popular as straightening curly hair. The active ingredient in perms and in some straighteners is the toxic ammonium thioglycolate. It can cause eye and skin irritation, and allergic reactions in some people. Permanent wave solutions can also result in first-degree burns and even hair loss. They cause hair to become damaged and weakened, making it more susceptible to chemical and ultraviolet damage. As well as ammonium thioglycolate, permanent wave solutions contain a large number of allergens and skin irritants like TEA, polyethelene glycol, FD&C colours, DMDM hydantoin, parabens, hydrogen peroxide, imidiazolidynol urea and synthetic fragrance.
No alternatives to conventional home permanents were found. However, an alternative and less toxic permanent wave solution, Organic Care, is available through "green" hairdressing salons and spas. Organic Care does not contain ammonia or thioglycolate.
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Home-made Alternatives Use the heat from a curling iron to curl your hair.
When your hair is damp, put rollers or pin curls into your hair, or plait it. Release the
curls when the hair has dried. |
Shampoos frequently contain harsh detergents, chemical fragrances and numerous irritating and carcinogenic compounds. Of particular concern are formaldehyde-releasing preservatives such as quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidiazolidinyl urea and diazolidinyl urea, which are used in many shampoos and conditioners to kill bacteria and reduce the risk of skin infections. Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen. Parabens, endocrine disrupting chemicals which have been found in breast tumour tissue, are also used as preservatives in many shampoos and hair products.
In addition, sodium lauryl sulfate and sodium laureth sulfate, which are used to create foam in shampoos, are also ingredients of concern. Both are irritants, which can be contaminated with ethylene dioxide, a known carcinogen, and 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen. Ammonium laureth sulfate, sometimes used as a substitute, may also be similarly contaminated. Other potentially harmful ingredients frequently used in conventional shampoos include TEA, which can release carcinogenic nitrosamines,propylene glycol, an allergen and skin irritant, and the preservatives, methylisothiazoline and methylchlorothiazoline, which have shown evidence of being neurotoxic in animal studies. Carcinogenic coal tar may be added as a biocide to some anti-dandruff shampoos.
Best
Alaffia Shampoos
Burt's Bees Outdoor Rosemary Mint Shampoo Bar
Chagrin Valley Soap and Shampoo Bar
Curelle Energe Shampoo/Hydra Shampoo
Dr. Bronner's Magic Pure Castille Classic Soaps
EarthSafe Rich Earth Shampoo (Can.co.)(unscented shampoo available)
Earth Spirit Organics Botanical Shampoo (Can. co.)(unscented shampoo available)
Green Beaver Shampoos (Can. co.)(unscented shampoo available)
Healing Scents Shampoos (unscented available)
Herbal Choice Mari Shampoos
Kogi Rosemary Mint Shampoo (Can. co.)
Miessence Shampoos
Morocco Method International Shampoos
Nana Essence Shampoo
Nature's Blends Extra Gentle Shampoo
Nurture My Body Shampoo
Olivier Soapery Shampoos (unscented shampoo & 100% Castille Soap available)
Oneka Lavender Shampoo/Citrus Shampoo/Naturally Unscented Shampoo (Can. co.)
Pure and Natural Shampoo
Purple Prairie Botanicals Rosemary Mint Shampoo Bar
Salon Naturals Shampoo
Skin Care for Ahtletes Tri-Body Wash Muscle Unscented Blend
Solay Shine Unscented Natural Shampoo
Terressentials Pure Earth Hair Washes (shampoo available fragrance free)
Zosimos Botanicals Shampoo
Good
Atlantic Healing Hemp Seawinds Shampoo (Nova Scotia co.)
Aubrey Organics Island Naturals Shampoo/Blue Camomile Shampoo/Egyptian Henna Shine/GPB
Glycogen Protein
Balancing Shampoo/Desert Herb Revitalizing Shampoo/Rose Mosqueta Nourishing Shampoo/
White Camellia Shampoo/Calaguela Fern Treatment Shampoo/Swimmers Normalizing Shampoo
Avalon Organics Shampoos
Botanical Therapeutic Moisturizing Shampoo
Burt's Bees Herbal Treatment Shampoo
Desert Essence Tea Tree Oil Shampoo/Jojoba Shampoo
Druide Balance Shampoo/Body and Shine Shampoo/Ecological Shampoo/
Pur and Pure Shampoo (unscented)
Honey Coconut Milk Shampoo
Juice Organics Brightening Shampoo/PomSmooth Shampoo (available at Rexall stores)
Juni Gentle Shampoo
John Masters Organic Shampoos (available unscented)
Kiss My Face Big Body Shampoo
Nature Clean Herbal Shampoo/Face and Body Bar Soap (both unscented)
Neal's Yard Remedies Shampoo
Pantene Pro-V Red Expressions Color Enhancing Shampoo, Auburn to Burgundy/Brunette
Expressions Color Enhancing Shampoo, Nutmeg to Dark Chocolate
Real Purity Moisturizing Shampoo (fragrance free shampoo available)
Smallbones Hemp Oil Soap and Shampoo Bar (Can. co.)
Theraneem Organix Shampoo
Simply Unscented (many shampoos listed as
"Best" and "Good" are also available unscented as noted above)
All Ways Natural Indian Hemp shampoo
Almay Shampoo
Avalon Organics Olive & Grapeseed Moisturizing Unscented Shampoo
Calia Organic Fragrance Free Shampoo
Earth Sciences Fragrance Free Shampoo
Granny's Rich and Radiant Shampoo
Heritage Olive Oil Shampoo (hypoallergenic)
Jason Natural Cosmetics Fragrance Free Daily Shampoo
Magick Botanicals Oil Free Shampoo/Shampoo for Thinning Hair (both fragrance
free)
Marcelle Shampoo (hypoallergenic)
Stonybrook Botanicals Unscented Shampoo
Real Aloe Vera Shampoo Unscented
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Home-made Alternatives Castille Soap Shampoo - Mix 1/2 cup of water with 1/2 cup of liquid castille soap (which is very difficult to find). To make a herbal shampoo, heat water before adding soap and steep herbs, then strain and add soap. Castille will leave a film on hair which can be removed by rinsing hair with 3 tablespoons of vinegar or lemon juice mixed with 1 cup of water. Egg Shampoo - Beat 2 large eggs and massage into scalp. Leave on a few minutes, then rinse with warm water. To cut film left by the eggs, rinse with vinegar (dark hair), or lemon Juice (light hair). Mix 3 tablespoons of vinegar or juice with 1 cup of water and pour through hair. Use any bar soap listed under "Best" or "Good" in the Soap section to shampoo your hair. Experiment until you find one that works well for your hair. Baking soda mixed with water to the right consistency can be massaged through hair.
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For centuries, women in some cultures have used depilatories, usually liquids or creams, to remove unwanted hair. The term, "depilatory", means removing hair. Old formulas made with arsenic and quicklime seem barbaric now, but even today’s chemical depilatories can burn skin and eyes and cause severe allergic reactions and pustular outbreaks. Depilatories use high-pH chemicals to dissolve hair below the surface of the skin. An offensive smelling chemical, thioglycolic acid, is commonly used as the active ingredient, sometimes in combination with lye to boost the effectiveness of the product. Other popular methods of removing hair include shaving, tweezing, sugaring, waxing, threading, laser treatments and electrolysis.
Next to shaving and depilatories, waxing and sugaring are the most popular methods of hair removal. Waxes can be made from petroleum (paraffin), rosin or beeswax. Hot wax is spread on the skin and covered in cloth strips which are ripped away when cool, taking the hair with them. Cold wax is also used. Manufacturers of conventional hair removal waxes often add preservatives such as endocrine-disrupting parabens or DMDM hydantoin, which releases formaldehyde, to extend the shelf life of their products. Fragrance is also a common additive.
Sugaring is a centuries-old technique for hair removal. A sugar and water gel is used as in waxing. Unlike wax, sugar does not adhere to skin so pulling off the cloth strips is less painful. Look for natural sugaring kits that contain only sugar, water and sometimes herbs. Both waxing and sugaring can cause skin irritation and infection if the skin is irritated, chapped or sunburned.
Laser treatments are also used to reduce the amount and thickness of hair. Laser treatments can cause blistering, discoloration, swelling, redness and scarring. Sunlight should be avoided while the skin heals. A major concern with laser hair removal is the use of skin numbing anesthetics, which are sometimes applied before a laser treatment. According to the US Food and Drug Administration's Office of Cosmetics, these products can cause serious side effects, including death, if they are not applied properly.
Best
(sugaring kits)
Alexandria Sugaring
Moom Organic Hair Removal Kit
Moom 4Men 10% Botanical Hair Remover for Men
Parissa Chamomile Body Sugar/2 in 1 Roll On Body Sugar/No Heat Body Sugar for Men
Persian Cold Wax Hair Remover (In spite of the name, there is no wax in this
product. It is a sugaring kit.)
Shoba Sugaring Gel for Hair Removal
Velvet Touch Hair Remover Mitten
Good (waxing)
Andrea Wax Strips for the Body/Gentle Hair Remover for the Face/Brazilian Hard Wax
Parissa Express Wax Strips for Face and Bikini/Express Wax
Strips for Legs and Body
Veet Ready-to-Use Gel Cold Wax Strips
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Home-made Alternatives Sugaring: To make your own sugaring solution, heat together 2 cups white sugar, 1/4 cup of lemon juice and 1/4 cup of water slowly over medium high heat. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 25 minutes until the colour is dark amber. Remove from heat, cool for 10 minutes and put in a container that can be reheated later. Rip clean cotton fabric in 1" strips. Using a dull knife or popsicle stick, spread the cooled sugar onto your skin. Cover with the cloth strips, let set for a few minutes, and then rip off quickly like a bandage. Waxing: To make your own hair removal wax, melt a small amount of beeswax in a small pan until very warm but still cool enough to touch. After dusting skin with body powder or cornstarch, apply warm wax with a wooden spatula. Allow mixture to cool for a few seconds, then remove quickly with a light tapping. Soothe skin with cream or aloe vera gel. |
Nail products are among the most toxic cosmetics on the market. Nails can absorb the chemicals used in polishes, removers and cuticle creams.
Three of the most harmful ingredients in conventional nail polishes are toluene, formaldehyde and dibutyl phthalate -- dubbed the "toxic trio" by the US Environmental Working Group.
Toluene may comprise up to 50% of the volume in some brands. As a result, high exposure to toluene can occur from home use of nail polish, according to the US Agency for Toxic Substances. Toluene is known to be a neurotoxin and may put pregnant women at risk of having a baby with birth defects or delayed development. The US Environmental Protection Agency’s Office of Pollution Protection says that breathing large amounts of toluene for a short period of time can harm kidneys, liver and the heart.
The second chemical of concern is formaldehyde. Formaldehyde, which is also found in nail products, is a known human carcinogen and a sensitizer.
The third one -- dibutyl phthalate (DBP) -- is an estrogen mimicking plasticizer that may disrupt thyroid function and accelerate sexual development in young girls. Animal studies have found that DBP may result in birth deformities like cleft palate or undescended testicles. DBP has also been linked to lower sperm counts in men.
Although many companies have removed the "toxic trio" from popular brands, conventional nail polishes may still contain other toxic chemicals such as ethyl acetate, which irritates the respiratory system, benzophenone-1, which is an endocrine disrupting chemical, and triphenyl phosphate, which is neurotoxic. Coal tar dyes are also used in many well-known brands of nail polish to create certain colours. As an alternative to conventional nail polishes, a number of companies have developed water-based nail polishes with few or no hazardous ingredients.
Best (water-based with no toluene, formaldehyde, or
DBP)
Acquarella
Go Natural
Honeybee Gardens WaterColors Nail Enamel
Hopscotch Kids Nail Polish
No-Miss (nitrocellulose, not water-based)
Polished Mama
Pure Anada (Canadian company) www.pureanada.ca
Scotch Naturals
Sula Paint & Peel
Suncoat (Canadian company) www.suncoatproducts.com
Good (no toluene, formaldehyde or DBP but
may contain other harmful ingredients)
Butter London
Chanel
China Glaze
Colorpops
Lippman Collection
L'Oreal
NailTini
NARS
Nubar
OPI Products
Orly International
Peacekeeper
Rescue Beauty Lounge
Revlon
Sally Hansen
Seche
SpaRitual
Zoya
Simply Unscented
Almay - hypoallergenic
Clinique - hypoallergenic, unscented, no toluene or formaldehyde
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Rub a bit of olive oil or another natural oil like jojoba or almond into your nails 1/2 to 1 hour before applying water-based nail polish. This makes it easier to remove the polish later and keeps your nails in good shape. |
Conventional nail polish removers contain acetone. When inhaled, this chemical enters the blood and is carried to body organs. Acetone is a neurotoxin, and short-term exposure causes respiratory and eye irritation, headaches, light-headedness, confusion, nausea and vomiting. Long-term exposure may damage the liver, kidneys and nervous system, and may increase the risk of birth defects.
Acetone-based nail polish removers do not work on water-based nail polishes. However, companies, which have developed water-based nail polishes have also developed acetone-free nail polish removers. Some of these nail polish removers, which are less toxic than those that are acetone-based, can be used to remove any type of nail polish.
Good (no acetone)
Acquarella Remover (only for water-based nail polishes)
Avon Nail Experts Nail Enamel Remover Wipes
Cutex Manicure Correction Nail Polish Pen, Non-Acetone
Hopscotch Kids Polish Remover (only for water-based nail polish)
No-Miss Nail Care Almost Natural Polish Remover
Pure Anada Aqua Glam Polish Remover (Canadian company)(only for water-based nail polish)
Suncoat (Canadian company) www.suncoatproducts.com
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Instead of using nail polish remover designed for water-based nail polish, just soak your nails in hot water for at least 2 minutes (or following a hot bath or shower), and gently scrape off the polish using your fingernails or a flat-tipped wood stick. It's generally recommended that you remove water-based polish from your nails not later than one week after application. |
Acrylic and other types of artificial nails are bad news all around, and there are no less-toxic alternatives besides your own well-groomed nails. The chemicals used in artificial nails have numerous short and long-term health effects. Nails need to breathe to stay healthy. Covering them in plastic resin causes nails to become weak, thin and brittle. Fungal infections are a problem when moisture is trapped beneath the artificial nail. In addition, the use of UV nail lamps to cure acrylic and gel nails may contribute to the development of skin cancer on the hands. Finally, removing the nails requires the use of a powerful solvent, usually acetonitrile. This toxic chemical can irritate the respiratory system, and may cause an enlarged thyroid.
Preformed press-on nails from the drug store are not an alternative. The glues used to attach these nails can cause contact dermatitis, eczema, dizziness and headaches.
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Home-made Alternatives For shiny and smooth nails without nail polish, use a nail buffer such as Sally Hansen Nail Buffer and Groomer or Honeybee Gardens 4 Sided Nail Buffer, and buff your nails so that they look like they have a coat of clear polish on them. |
Skin Products
Toners and astringents are designed to get rid of any lingering traces of cleanser and dead skin cells, to remove excess oil and dirt, and to soothe the skin after shaving. Toners are supposed to work by closing the pores and balancing the skin’s pH but many toners produce that tight feeling by using sorbitol and plasticizers like polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP). Astringents generally contain higher levels of alcohol than toners as well as other antiseptic ingredients. They control oily skin with levels of alcohol that can dry even the oiliest skin immediately after use.
Many conventional astringents rely on petroleum-based chemicals for their effect. Some contain salicylic acid as an active ingredient. Salicylic acid, which enhances skin absorption, can be a neurotoxin and irritate skin. Its use is restricted by Health Canada. Benzyl alcohol, another skin irritant and potential neurotxoin, is also used in many astringents. Other common ingredients in toners and astringents are synthetic colours, fragrance and preservatives such as estrogen-mimicking parabens or DMDM hydantoin, which releases formaldehyde. Non-toxic alternatives to mainstream toners and astringents contain ingredients such as witch hazel, aloe vera gel or rosewater.
Best
Anarres Natural Health EcoGear Toner (Toronto co.)
Anointment Rose Toner (Nova Scotia co.)
Authentic Skin Remedies Balance
Ava Anderson NonToxic toner
Awaken My Senses Aging Gracefully Organic Toners
Borlind ZZ Sensitive Face Toner
Burt's Bees Rosewater and Glycerin Toner
Cleure Toner
Coastal Classic Creations Reef Breaks Witch Hazel Toner
Cosmic Tree Essentials Mystic Alchemy Toner (Nova Scotia co.)
Devita Cool Cucumer Facial Toner/Moroccan Rose Facial Toner
Druide Face Toner
evanHealy Facial Tonic Hydrosols
face naturals Organic Hydrosols
Green Beaver Blemish Mousse for Acne Prone Skin
Healing Scents No Alcohol Facial Toner
Heritage Products Rosewater and Glycerin Toner
Honey Girl Organics Facial Toner
Humphreys Witch Hazel Astringent
Jiade Organic Cosmetics Truly Organic Toner (Can. co.)
La Roche Posay Thermal Spring Water/Toleriane Fluide Non-Oily Emulsion
LUVU Beauty Toners (Can. co.)
Nuvo Floral Water
Olivier Soapery Femme Body Toner (Can. co.)
Organic Indulgence Facial Toner
Outside/In Cosmetics Floral Facial Toners (Can. co.)
Pangea Organics Facial Toners
Poofy Organics Face Toners
Purple Prairie Botanicals Orange TeaTree Clarifying Toner
Real Purity pH ReTone
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Soothing Toner (Can. co.)
Samantharoma Geranium Toning Mist
Suki Concentrated Balancing Toner
Terressentials 100% Organic Flower Therapy Exfoliating Facial Toner/Fragrance Free Facial Toner
The Art of Shaving Hydrating Toner
The Body Shop Aloe Calming Toner
Witch Hazel Solution Astringent Cleaner
Good
Alaffia Beobab and Shea Refreshing Toner
Alba Botanica Hawaiian Skin Care Hibiscus Toner
Aubrey Organics Vegecol with Aloe Alcohol Free Toner
Avalon Organics CoQ10 Skin Care Perfecting Facial Toner/Lavender Skin Care Hydrating Toner
Ecco Bella Mist-On Toner
Neal's Yard Remedies Orange Flower Water/Rose Water/Lavender Water/Witch Hazel Water/Rejuvenating
Frankincense Toner
Pure Anada Green Tea and Grapeseed Hydra Lotion (Can. co.)
Thayers Alcohol-Gree Witch Hazel Toners
Simply Unscented
Almay Toner 2 for Dry Skin/for Normal Combo Skin
Anthony Logistics for Men Alcohol Free Toner Fragrance Free
Marcelle Tonifying Lotion/Dry Skin Toner
RoC Actif Toner
Thayers Alcohol-Free Unscented Witch Hazel with Organic Aloe Vera
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Home-made Alternatives
Watermelon Toner for Oily Skin
Lemon Toner for All Skin Types
Apple Cider Vinegar Toner For Acne
Herbal Toner for Dry Skin Mix aloe vera and essential oils in a glass bottle. Then add hydrosol.
Healing Toner for Sensitive Skin Mix essential oils with witch hazel in a glass bottle. Then add hydrosol. |
The major concern with bath products is the possible presence of contaminants created in the manufacturing process, some of which have carcinogenic properties. In 2009, the Environmental Working Group in the US found that more than 60% of children's bath products contained formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, and 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen.
Formaldehyde is released into bath products from common preservatives such as DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, diazolidinyl urea and imidiazolidinyl urea. 1,4-dioxane is produced during the manufacture of bath products when ingredients, such as PEG-100 stearate, sodium laureth sulfate, polyethylene and ceteareth 20, are processed with ethylene oxide. 1,4-dioxane then becomes a contaminant of product ingredients. Because it is a contaminant and not an ingredient, it does not appear on the list of ingredients. Although EWG tested children's bath products, the same problem ingredients that result in the presence of formaldehyde and 1,4-dioxane are used in many commercial bath products for adults as well.
Conventional bath products also contain synthetic fragrance, FD&C colours from coal tar, and benzyl alcohol. These ingredients can cause allergic reactions. Mineral-based bath salts are sprayed with synthetic dyes and scents, and can contain other ingredients irritating to skin and mucous membranes. Bubble baths are also full of dyes, colours, scents and preservatives, as well as sodium lauryl sulfate used to create foam. Fragrance masking ingredients, such as coumarin which is an immune system toxin, are often used to mask the scent of other fragrance ingredients. Parabens, which mimic estrogen, are also common preservatives in bath products, in addition to the formaldehyde-releasing preservatives listed above. As well, soaking in hot water with bath oils, salts or bubbles increases the skin's permeability and, therefore, increases exposure to harmful chemicals.
Best
Ahava Bath Salts/Dead Sea Salts
Alvin Connor Natural Bath Soaks (available unscented)
Anarres Natural Health Bath Salts/Massage & Bath Oils/Tub Truffles (Toronto co.)
Anointment Sea Salts Bath Salts (Halifax co. Sold in P’Lovers)
Aromafloria Bath & Body Oils/Mineral Bath Salts
Atlantic Healing Hemp Cold Pressed Hemp Seed Oil Body Powder
Aubrey Organics Natural Spa Sea Wonders Bath Salts
Aveeno Soothing Bath Treatment (100% oatmeal)
Be Green Bath & Body Bath Tea
Belle's Botanicals Bath Salt & Body Scrubs
Best Bath Store Bath Salts/Bath Bombs
Big Tub Botanicals Bath & Body Oils/Tub Teas/Tub Truffles/Bath Soaks
Bubble & Bee Organic Bath Salts
Burt’s Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Body and Bath Oil/Therapeutic Bath Crystals
Cedar Spring Herb Farm Bath Salts/Bath Bags/Fizzies
EO Bath Salts
face naturals Unscented Bath Salts
Fizz Bath Shop Salts/Bath Fizzes
Goodness Essential Bath Salts/Bath& Body Oils
Healing Scents Healing Sea Salts (available unscented)
Herban Lifestyle Bath Salts/Bath Soaks
Heritage Products Purified Castor Oil
Just the Goods Bath Salts
Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Bath Soaks
l'Occitane Aromachology Bath & Massage Oil with Vegetable Oils
Matter Outdoors Bath Salts (Ont. co.)
Miessence Essential Oils
Moonsnail Soapworks Aromatherapy Bath Salts/Island Salt Scrub and Soak (PEI co.)
Moor Spa Elixir Herbal Baths
Mother Love Herbal Company Sitz Bath
naked Bonbons
Naturity Salt Soaks
Neal's Yard Remedies Lavender Bath Salts
Olivier Soapery Unscented Bubble Bath (Can. co.)
Omved Lifestyle Body Soaks/Bath Salts/Body and Bath Oils
Perfect Organics Bath Therapy
Pharmacopia Bath Salts
Plantlife Therapeutic Mineral Bath Salts
100% Pure Sea Therapy Baths
Purple Prairie Botanicals Dead Sea Salts
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Bath Salts/Bath Gems/Massage & Bath Oils (Can. co.)
Samantharoma Mineral Salt Baths
Sensatia Botanicals Bath Salts
Shea Butter Market Shea Bath Salts/Bath Bombs
Solay Himalayan Bath Salts
Soapwalla Kitchen Indulgent Bath Soaking Salts
Tara Bath Therapy Bath Salts
The Body Shop Aloe Comforting Bath Oil
Vitamoor Relax
Weleda Lavender Relaxing Bath Milk
Good
Ajara Ayurvedic Beauty Ayurvedic Herbal Tea Bath
Aura Cacia Foam Baths
Castle Baths Dead Sea Salts
Druide Foaming Bath & Shower Gels
Escents Bath Salts/Bombs/Melt Bars
Hugo Naturals Effervescent Bath Salts
Jasco Organics Fine Sea Salts
LUVU Beauty Baby Beauty Bath Soak (Can. co.)
Olivier Soapery Soothingly Fresh Bath Bomb (Can. co.)
Queen Helene Batherapy Bath Salts
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Home-made Alternatives Epsom Salts Bath - Follow package directions. Soothing Bath - Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to bath water. Milk Bath - Add one quart of milk to tub, or 2 cups of instant powdered milk.
Basic Recipe for Homemade Bath Salts |
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As part of the trend toward more "natural" beauty products, body oils have become a popular item for nourishing dry skin, keeping scar tissue soft, massaging, bathing and for shaving. Many of the best body oil products are based simply on natural oils such as jojoba, olive, almond and wheat germ, or the more recent arrivals, argan and sea buckthorn. In some products, pure essential oils are added.
Many mainstream commercial products, however, contain mineral oil, a petrochemical product, or silicone. Both these chemicals coat the skin and do not allow it to breathe. Commercial oils also use synthetic fragrances, which may contain numerous toxic ingredients, to create more heavily perfumed products. Some fragrance ingredients in body oils, such as limonene, lilial and geraniol, which are derived from natural sources, can cause allergies and contact dermatitis. Preservatives like parabens or imidiazolidinyl urea are also often used in conventional body oil products to prolong their shelf life.
Best
Anointment Baby Oil (Nova Scotia co. sold in P’Lovers)
Anarres Natural Health Massage and Bath Oils (Toronto co.)
Atlantic Healing Hemp Cold Pressed Hemp Seed Oil (Nova Scotia co.)
Aubrey Organics Natural Spa Invigorating Massage Lotion
Aura Cacia Massage Oils/Creams/Skin Care Oils (available unscented)
Auromere Massage Oil
Awaken My Senses Almond Oil
Badger Healing Blend Massage Oil/Baby Oil/Sleep Enhancer Massage and Body Oil
Bare Organics Organic Bath and Body Oil
Bella Mira Organic Essential Oils
Burt's Bees Lemon & Vitamin E Bath & Body Oil
California Baby Massage Oils
Cleure Emu Oil
Coastal Classic Creations Body Oil
Desert Essence Love Massage & Body Oil
Ferlow Botanicals Massage Lotion/Sheen Body Lotion (B.C. co.)
Herbal Choice Mari Essential Oils
Hugo Naturals Massage & Body Oils
Jason Natural Cosmetics Pure Beauty Oil
Josie Maran 100% Pure Argan Oil
Korres Body Oils
Living Libations Best Skin Ever (Can. co.)
L'Occitane Aromachology Bath & Massage Oil
Miessence 100% Pure Essential Oils/Unscented Massage Oil
Moonsnail Soapworks Massage Oils (PEI co.)
Mountain Sky Body Oils/Massage Bars (Can. co.)
Naturity Massage Oils
Neal's Yard Remedies Massage Oils
Olivier Soapery Sweet Almond Oil/Soothing Oil/Men's Massage Oil/Dry Skin Therapeutic Oil
Plantlife Aromatherapy Massage Oil Scent Free
Purple Prairie Botanicals Massage Oils
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Relaxation Bath & Massage Oil
Samantharoma Massage Oil Hatha Blend/Unscented
Smallbones Studio of Home Arts & Sustainable Living Rosehip Seed Oil (Can. co.)
Sigrid Chamomile & Ylang Ylang Body Oil (Ont. co.)
Suki Delicate Hydrating Oil
Tara Spa Therapy Professional Blend Massage Oils/Aromatherapy Body & Massage Oils
Tata Harper Skincare Revitalizing Body Oil
Terressential 100% Organic Cocoa Butter Rich Body Oil/Anointing Body Oil
The Body Shop Lavender Essential Oil
Good
Caribbean Solutions Jade Oil
Cococare Vitamin E Body Oil
Dr. Bronner's Magic Organic Peppermint Body Balm
Druide Sensualis Massage Cream
Simply Unscented
Aveda All Sensitive Body Formula Unscented
Neutrogena Body Oil Fragrance Free
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Home-made Alternatives Body Massage Oil Any plain vegetable or nut oil -- jojoba, almond, avocado, wheat germ or grapeseed -- can be used as a massage oil. A few drops of a pure essential oil, such as lavender or bergamot, can be added, if desired.
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Body dusting powders are used to absorb sweat and odours and to soothe irritated skin. Conventional body powders often contain talc or amorphous silica, both of which can cause lung irritation when inhaled. Studies have shown that women using talc in the genital area and on sanitary napkins have an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Powders used for body dusting frequently contain chemical fragrances, and fragrance ingredients also used as masking agents. These include lilial, lyral, eugenol, coumarin and citral, all of which are skin irritants. Parabens, which are endocrine disruptors, and other preservatives are also widely used in body powders. Alternative powders use ingredients such as cornstarch, tapicoa flour, rice flour, kaolin and arrowroot powders in place of talc and silica.
Best
Anointment Baby Powder (Halifax co. sold in P’Lovers)
Be Green Bath & Body Talc Free Powder
Cosmic Tree Essentials Body Powders (Nova Scotia co.)
Giselle Cosmetics Stack Collection
Healing Scents Body Powders (available unscented)
Janulence Deodorizing Body Powders
Kaylala Organic Lavender Body Powder
Kettle Care Bath & Body Powder
Lafe's Natural BodyCAre Roll On Deodorant Powder
LeMari Deodorising Body Powder
Maia's Mineral Galaxy Serenity Body Shimmer
Miessence Luxurious Body Powder
Starflower Essentials Herbal Body Powder
Zosimos Botanicals Shimmer Dust
Good
California Baby Non-Talc Powder
Canary Cosmetics Body Powder
Neal's Yard Remedies Lavender & Tea Tree Body Powder/Orange & Geranium Body Powder
Little Forest Daily Botanicals Baby Powder
Simply Unscented
Crystalux Body Powder Unscented
|
Home-made Alternatives
Aura Cacia's Recipe for Body Dusting Powder (no longer available)
Lavender Bath Powder Mix well. Let sit 24 hours minimum. Store in glass jar.
Spice Bath Powder
Mix dry ingredients. Add oil and stir well. |
Commercial cleansers rely on alcohol and petroleum products to dislodge dirt and clean the skin. However, these ingredients also remove natural oils and cause drying. To counteract this, manufacturers may add mineral oil (a petroleum product) to make the skin feel soft. Other chemicals used in cleansers allow them to spread more easily and create foam. The chemicals that create foam include sodium laurel sulfate, ammonium laurel sulfate, sodium laureth sulfate, ammonium laureth sulfate and myreth sulfate. These chemicals are known skin irritants, and may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen. Another chemical used for foam is cocamide DEA. Cocamide DEA is also a skin irritant, and may be contaminated with carcinogenic nitrosamines.
Polyethylene glycol (PEG) compounds, such as PEG-7 and PEG-200, are added to many body washes and cleansers to help them retain water. PEG compounds may be contaminated with the known carcinogen, ethylene dioxide, and 1-4 dioxane, a probable carcinogen. Common preservatives in cleansers include parabens, which can disrupt the hormone system, and methylisothiazoline and methylchloroisothiazoline, which are immune system toxins. Cleansing creams and body washes may also contain TEA, a skin allergen, potentially toxic FD&C colours, and antibacterials such as triclosan. Many also have fragrance, which generally includes phthalates. Phthalates have been linked to reproductive problems.
Best
Anointment Herbal Clay Cleanser (Halifax co. Sold in
P’Lovers)
Ava Anderson Cleanser
Awaken My Senses Aging Gracefully Organic Cleanser (Can. co.)
Bare Organics All in One Cleansers/Organic Cleansing Grains Unscented (Ont. co.)
Be Green Bath & Body Facial Cleanser/Foaming Hand & Body Soap
Body Organic Body Washes
Bubble & Bee Shower Gels
Coastal Classic Creations Body Wash & Shampoo
Devita Aloe Vera Moisture Cleanser
Earth Safe Hand & Body Wash (Can. co.)
Encoura Body Wash (available unscented)
face naturals Body Cleansers (available unscented)
Favor Care Organics Shower Gels
Ferlow Botanicals Herbal Cleansing Milk (B.C. co.)
Healing Scents Liquid Hand Soap/Shampoo Body Wash/Cleansers/100% Castile Soap
Honey Girl Facial Cleanser
Jiade French Pink Cleanser (Ont. co.)
Loving Naturals 100% Natural Body Washes (available Unscented Aloe Vera Vegan)
Matter Company Rejuvenating Cream Cleanser (Ont. co.)
Mont Echo Sea Buckthorn Creme Cleanser (Que. co.)
Nature Clean Au Naturelle Liquid Soap
Non-Toxic Skin Care Body Washes
Nothing Nasty Organic Castile Soaps
Nurture My Body Body Wash (available fragrance free)
Olivier Soapery Liquid Hand Soap/Sensibly Fresh Handmade Dry Skin Body Wash (Can. co.)
Organic Indulgence Foaming Facial Cleanser
Raindance Cream Face Wash/Balancing Face Wash
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Hand & Body Washes/Foaming Washes (Can. co.)
Sigrid Chamomile & Calendula Gentle Cleanser (Ont. co.)
Sircuit Skin Squeaky Clean Body Wash
Skin Care for Athletes Tri-Body Wash
Suki Creamy Foaming Cleanser
Urban Naturals Organic Body Wash
Zosimos Shower Gels
Good
Aubrey Organics Natural Spa Sea Soap Shower Wash/Rose Mosqueta Luxurious Body Wash/Rose
Mosqueta Moisturizing Bath & Shower Gel
Aveeno Eczema Body Care Wash/Exfoliating Body Wash
Ballard organics All Purpose Concentrated Liquid Soaps (available fragrance free)
Body Organic Body Washes
California Baby Shampoo & Body Wash
Dr. Bronner's Magic 18-in-1 Pure Castile Liquid Soaps/Shikakai Pump Soaps
Dropwise Essentials Gentle Cleansing Body Wash
Ecco Bella Deep Cleansing Gel
evan healy Blue Lavender Cleansing Milk/Rose Cleansing Milk/Tea Tree Gel Cleanser
Green Beaver Body Washes/Daily Facial Cleanser (Can. co.)
Herbal Choice Mari Body Washes
Hugo Naturals Shower Gels
John Masters Organics Linden Blossom Face Creme Cleanser
Korres Shower Gels
Miessence Sunflower Body Wash/Cleansers/Cleansing Bar
Monave Creamy Body Cleanser
Nivea For Men Body Wash
Oblige by Nature Body Washes
Omved Lifestyle PVT Ltd. Body Wash/Body Shower Gel
Pangea Organics Shower Gels
Plantlife Body Washes/Foam Soaps
Pure Anada Lavender & Chamomile Calming Cleanser/Fruit Enzyme Exfoliating Cleanser/ScentLESS
Gentle Cleanser (Can. co.)
100% Pure Facial Cleansing Foams/Facial Cleansers
Pure & Natural Body Washes
Save Your Skin Shower Gel
Soapwalla Kitchen Hand & Body Washes
Suis for Face & Body Gentle Foaming Face & Body Cleanser
Tom's of Maine Natural Moisturizing Body Wash
Trillium Organics Organic Body Soap
Simply Unscented
All Terrain Wonder Wash Fragrance Free All Purpose Soap
Clinique Comorting Cream Cleanser/Liquid Facial Soap
Consonant Pure Unscented Organic Body Wash
Dove Sensitive All Day Moisturizing Body Wash for Sensitive Skin Unscented
Dionis Unscented Body Wash with Moisturizing Goats Milk
Down East Hand & Body Wash (N.S. co.)
Elizabeth Arden Hydra-Gentle Cream Cleanser
Jason Natural Cosmetics Fragrance Free Body Wash
LaRoche Posay Lipikar Syndet Cleansing Body Cream Gel
Magic Botanickals Fragrance Free Cleanser for the Chemically Sensitive
Marcelle Essentials Cleansing Milk/Essentials Foaming Cleansing Gel/Cleansing Water/3 in 1
Cleanser/Gentle Foaming Wash (all products fragrance free)
Neutrogena Liquid Facial Cleansing Formula Fragrance Free
Phisoderm Cream Cleanser for Sensitive Skin
RoC Dermatological Enydrial Dermo-Calming Cleanser
Spectro Fragrance Free Cleansers for Dry Skin/Combination Skin/Blemish Prone Skin
The Body Shop Aloe Gentle Shower Cream
Tom's of Maine Natural Body Wash Naturally Unscented
Walgreens Gentle Skin Cleanser
|
Home-made Alternatives
Oatmeal Cleanser
Citrus Cleansing Milk
Blend yogurt and lemon juice. With blender running, slowly add oil. Pour into
jar and add essential oil. Massage a small amount into skin and rinse. |
Deodorants and Antiperspirants
Deodorants and antiperspirants both fight body odour. Deodorants work by inhibiting
the growth of bacteria that cause odour. Antiperspirants actually stop
perspiration by blocking the sweat ducts.
Most conventional antiperspirants rely on aluminum compounds, such as aluminum
trichlorohydrex gly, as the active ingredient. The use of aluminum in personal care products
is the subject of considerable controversy. The effects of widespread, long term and
increasing use of aluminum compounds are unknown. There is evidence that many aluminum compounds
are toxic to the nervous system. As well, British scientists at
the University of Reading have expressed concern about aluminum interfering with estrogen and
playing a role in the rising incidence of breast cancer. They have shown the presence of
aluminum in breast cancer tumours and breast tissue in research published in the
Journal of Inorganic Biochemistry.
Although there have been very few
studies on the relationship between breast cancer and the use of deodorants and
antiperspirants, a 2003 study of breast cancer survivors published in the European Journal
of Cancer Prevention found that women who began to shave their underarms and use underarm
products before the age of 16 had been diagnosed with breast cancer at an earlier age than
those who began these habits later. Until this issue is settled, some people choose to avoid
the use of products containing aluminum. Aluminum-based compounds are also one
of the main causes of skin irritation in antiperspirant users.
Crystal deodorants are a popular alternative to conventional deodorants and antiperspirants. They typically use either potassium alum or aluminum alum, which are also aluminum salts. It is believed that they react differently than the other aluminum compounds and are less likely to penetrate the skin and be absorbed. Potassium alum is a naturally occuring salt while ammonium alum is synthetic. Some crystal deodorants are crystal rocks, which contain no other ingredients. Liquid deodorants based on crystal may contain other ingredients of concern.
Another ingredient of concern in deodorants and antiperspirants is the antibacterial agent, triclosan. Triclosan is suspected of disrupting the endocrine system and has been shown to harm the thyroid system in animal studies. Other toxic ingredients in deodorants and antiperspirants include: synthetic fragrances containing phthalates that may cause reproductive harm, benzyl alcohol, a skin irritant, BHT, a fragrance masking agent that can contribute to allergic reactions, and ceteareth that may be contaminated with toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. Parabens, also endocrine disrupting chemicals, are used as preservatives in deodorants and antiperpirants, and have been detected in breast cancer tumours. Talc is also an ingredient in some deodorants and antiperspirants. If talc is used in roll-on or solid products, it is not a problem but it may cause lung irritation if it is used in aerosol products. Isobutane, a gas which can be contaminated with carcinogenic butadiene, is often used as a propellant in aerosol sprays. Aerosol sprays break chemicals into minute particles. Minute particles can be more deeply inhaled than larger particles and this may increase their harmful effects.
Best
Alba Botanica Deodorant Sticks (available in Aloe Unscented)
Alvin Connor Natural Deodorant
Anarres Detoxifying Cream Deodorant (Toronto co.)
Awaken My Senses Organics Freshen Up (Toronto co.)
Botanical Therapeutic Liquid Crystal Deodorant (Can. co.)
Bubble and Bee organic Deodorants
Coastal Classic Creations Wave Crest Deodorant
Cleure Spray Deodorant
Crystal Body Deodorants Roll-On/Body Spray
Dr. Mist Natural Deodorants (Roll-On and Sprays)
Earthwise/Eco-Wise Naturals Baking Soda Plus Deodorant (Can. co.)
face naturals Deodorants
Green Beaver Deodorants (available unscented)
Herbal Magic Roll-On Deodorant (Unscented)
Honeybee Gardens Deodorant Powder
Hugo Naturals Deodorants (available unscented)
Innocent Oils Pure Himalayan Crystal Body Spray
Lafe's Natural Crystal Dodorant Stone/Body Care Deodorants (Roll-On and Sticks)
(available unscented)
L'Occitane Aromachrology Deodorant Pierre de Crystal for Men
LUVU Beauty Naturally Yours Deodorant (Can. co.)
Miessence Deodorants (available fragrance free)
Naturally Fresh Deodorant Crystal
Northern Harmony Body Mist Deodorant
Pure and Natural Crystal Deodorant
Real Purity Deodorant
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Crystal Deodorants (Alberta co.)
Samantharoma Deodorant Mist Unscented
Soapwalla Kitchen Deodorant Cream
Solay Salt Stone
Terressentials Fragrance Free Super Protection Deodorant
Tom's of Maine Natural Deodorant Body Bar Lemongrass
Zosimos Botanicals Deodorants (available unscented)
Good
Aubrey Organics Natural Deodorants (Roll-On and Spray)
Avalon Organics Deodorant Sprays
Burt's Bees Outdoor Herbal DeodorantDesert Essence
Earth Science Deodorants (available unscented)
Herbaclear Deodorant (Can. co.)
Kiss My Face Liquid Rock Deodorants (available unscented)
Nature's Gate Winter Clean Deodorant Stick (other "seasons" have fragrance)
Neal's Yards Remedies Deodorants
Nutribiotic Deodorants (available unscented)
Olivier Soapery Femme Deodorant (Can. co.)
Purple Prairie Botanicals Natural Deodorant
Terra Naturals Deodorants
Tom’s of Maine Natural Confidence Roll-On Deodorant/Original Care Deodorant Stick Unscented
Simply Unscented
Almay Antiperspirant and Deodorant Unscented
Arm & Hammer Essentials Antiperspirant Deodorant Unscented
Arid XX Antiperspirant/Deodorant Solid Unscented
Avon On Duty Roll on Antiperspirant Deodorant - Unscented and Original
Ban Original Roll-On/Classic Invisible Solid Antiperspirant & Deodorant(both unscented)
Clinique Antiperspirant Deodorant Roll-on
Dove Unscented Deodorant
Dry Idea Roll-On Antiperspirant & Deodorant Unscented
Earth Science Liken Natural Deodorant Unscented
Gillette Clinical Sensitive Skin Unscented
Jason Natural Cosmetics Pure Natural Deodorant Stick - Unscented Naturally Fresh for Women
Lady Mitchum Clear Gel Antiperspirant and Deodorant Unscented
Lady Speed Stick Invisible Unscented Antiperspirant
Marcelle Roll-On Antiperspirant
Mitchum Roll-on Antiperspirant & Deodorant Unscented
Old Spice Red Zone Antiperspirant Deodorant Solid Unscented
Right Guard Sport Antiperspirant Unscented
Secret Natural Mineral Unscented Deodorant
Soft & Dri Soothers Antiperspirant Deodorant Unscented
Speed Stick Ultimate Antiperspirant & Deodorant Unscented
Sure Original/Sure Invisible Antiperspirant Deodorant Unscented (Solid, Aerosol)
Tom's of Maine Sensitive Deodorant Fragrance Free
|
Home-made Alternatives Dab well-steeped black tea onto skin. Deodorant Powder Recipe 1/4 cup cornstarch 1/4 cup baking soda 3/4 teaspoon pulverized lavender flowers 15 drops pure lavender essential oil Mix lavender oil with the pulverized lavender flowers. Mix with the other 2 ingredients. Allow mixture to sit in an airtight container away from light for a day or two. To use, lightly dust the underarm using a shaving or blush brush. Apply to any other areas of the body that you wish to feel fresh. (adapted from www.naturalnews.com) For an unscented deodorant powder, omit the lavender flowers and lavender essential oil. Although essential oils limit the bacteria that cause odour, essential oils may irritate the skin and many people are sensitive to essential oils. Essential oils are not appropriate for scent-free environments. |
Unlike normal cleansers, scrubs contain exfoliating ingredients that remove dead skin. They are also used to unclog pores and moisturize the skin. As an exfoliating agent, many conventional scrubs use "microbeads", which are actually fine granules of polyethylene plastic and are listed as "polyacrylamide" on the list of ingredients. Conventional scrubs also contain a variety of chemicals of concern, including potentially carcinogenic coal tar colours (FD&C), harsh alcohols and detergents, the surfactant TEA that can be contaminated with cancer-causing nitrosamines, the skin irritant sodium lauryl sulfate and the anti-bacterial triclosan. They are also likely to contain harmful preservatives like hormone-disrupting parabens, methylizothiazilone and methylchloroisothiazilone, both of which are immune system toxins or imidiazolinyl urea that can release the carcinogenic formaldehyde. Synthetic fragrance, which often contains phthalates, is also a common additive in conventional scrubs.
Natural scrubs use non-synthetic alternatives like ground nuts, seeds, fruit and salt to help exfoliate the skin and improve the complexion.
Best
Alvin Connor Natural Body Finish
Anarres Natural health Night Exfoliant Serum (Tor. co.)
Anointment Herbal Clay Cleanser (Nova Scotia co.)
Aubrey Organics Natural Spa Sea Wonders Body Polishes/Meal & Herbs Exfoliating Bath Bar
Bare Organics Organic Body Scrub Unscented/Organic Cleansing Grains/Organic
Cleansing Grains Unscented
Bubble & Bee Organic Salt Scrub
Cedar Spring Herb Farm Facial Scrub
Cleure Exfoliating Scrub
face naturals Unscented Bath Salts Scrubs/Unscented Bath Salts
Green Beaver Grapefruit Facial Exfoliant (Can.co.)
Healing Scents Cellulite Reduction Body Scrub
Herbaliz Cleansing Grains
Himalaya Exfoliating Walnut & Wood Apple Face Scrub
Honey Girl Facial Scrub
Hugo Naturals Body Polish/Sea Salt and Sugar Scrubs
Jane Iredale Sugar and Butter Lip Exfoliator
LUVU Beauty Cremed Honey Body Polish/Coconut Sugar Scrub
Matter Company Exfoliating Cream Cleanser (Ont. co.)
Miessence Garnet Exfoliant
Moonsnail Soapworks Cleansing Grains/Island Salt Scrub & Soak/Himalayan Rock Salt Body Polish
(PEI co.)
Olivier Soapery Exfoliation Soap/Men's Body Scrub/Femme Body Scrub (Can. co.)
Organic Indulgence Exfoliant Facial Scrub
100% Pure Facial Scrubs
Pure Anada Exfoliating Cleanser
Purple Prairie Botanicals Sea Salt Body Polish
Real Purity Honey Almond Scrub
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Organic Sugar Scrubs/Peppermint Lip Scrub
Suki Exfoliating Foaming Cleanser
Good
Ajara Ayurvedic Beauty Exfoliating Facial Cleansers
Alba Botanica Hawaiian Body Scrub
Andalou Naturals Facial Scrub
Giovanni Salt Scrub
Kiss My Face Start Up Exfoliating Face Wash
Sally Hansen Just Feet Deep Callus Remover
Soleo Organics Facial Polish
The Body Shop Lavender Salt Scrub
Simply Unscented
Avon mark Go with the Grain Exfoliating Beads
Clinique Facial Exfoliating Scrub/Turnaround Body Smoothing Cream/7 Day Scrub Cream Rinse Off
(many products are fragrance-free)
CVS Exfoliating Moisturizer
Marcelle Hydra C Facial Exfoliating Gel/AC Solution Gel Exfoliant
RoC Gentle Exfoliating Lotion/Cream
|
Home-made Alternatives Homemade Sugar Body Scrub 2 cups turbinado (raw sugar) or light brown sugar 1/2 cup (or slightly less) avocado, sesame or jojoba oil 1/4 cup (or slightly less) apricot or peach kernal oil a few drops of essential oil or flavourings such as ginger powder and vanilla extract (optional) honey for smoothing the texture if the scrub is too dry Mix oils slowly into the sugar stirring to keep the consistency smooth, and stop when you can form the mixture into a slightly wet ball without it dripping through your fingers. Add the essential oils last, since they are for fragrance not moisture, and you will only need 2 or 3 drops to get the aroma strong enough. Note: different sugars will give different skin smoothing results. If you use turbinado, you may need more oil because turbinado has a coarser texture than light brown sugar. If you use brown sugar, keep a careful eye on the liquid ingredients so that your scrub doesn't dissolve into a thin paste. Use honey only if the scrub is too dry, or increase the amount of oil if you prefer.
Homemade Salt Body Scrub
Follow the directions for the sugar body scrub, substituting pickling or kosher salts for
sugar. Vary the ingredients to create your own favourite scents, using cocoa and coffee for a
mocha body scrub, or using essential oils such as skin-friendly rose, rosemary, lemon, lavender
and chamomile instead of vanilla. (recipes adapted from www.freebeautytips.com) |
Return to MenuThe ingredients in facial masks vary considerably from product to product. Some alternative products can be as simple as clay and honey powder. More conventional masks, however, can contain numerous toxic ingredients. These include synthetic fragrance, one of the most common ingredients in facial masks, parabens, preservatives that are hormone-disrupting, TEA, a fragrance ingredient and surfactant that can cause allergic reactions, DMDM hydantoin, a preservative that may release carcinogenic formaldehyde, aluminum starch octenylsuccinate, a neurotoxin used as an anti-caking agent that may be contaminated with heavy metals, the preservatives methylchloroisothiazalone and methylisothiazalone that are skin irritants, the foaming agent sodium laureth sulfate and ceteareth, both of which may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen, and ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen. Triclosan, an antibacterial and possible endocrine disrupting substance, is also added to some facial masks.
Best
A. Vogel Clays
Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay
Auromere Rejuvenating Mud Bath & Mask
Bare organics Organic Cleansing Grains
Coastal classic Creations Skin Treatments/Masks
Cleure Refining Mask
Cosmic Tree Essentials Moroccan Lava and Glacial Clays Mask (Nova Scotia co.)
Dr. Hauschka Skin Care Cleansing Clay Mask/Facial Steam Bath
Evan Healey French Rose Clay/Green Tea Clay
face naturals Mud/Masks
Herbal Vedic Herbal Mineral Care
Herbaliz Face Mask
Honey Girl Rejuvenating Mask
Juice Beauty Organic Rejuvenating Mask
Kare & Hope Face Mask (Ont. co.)
Lauren Brooke Cosmetiques Masques
L'Occitane Shea Ultra Comforting Mask
LUVU Beauty Powdered Masks (Can. co.)
Mary Ginseng House Face Mask/Acne Treatment (Can. co.)
Miessence Mineral Masks
Moonsnail Moondew Therapeutic Treatment Mask (PEI co.)
Mont Echo Sea Buckthorn Nutritive Powder Mask (Que. co.)
Olivier Soapery Femme Facial Mask (Can. co.)
Organic Indulgence Facial Mask
100% Pure Peel Mask
Real Purity Facial Masque
Rosemira Organics Gentle Masques
Sigrid Facial Mask Sweet Earth (Can. co.)
Skin Essence Mineral Mask (Can. co.)
Solay Detox Face Mask/Body Mud
Suki Cleansing Clay Mask
Tata Harper Skincare Resurfacing Mask
Tautropfen Wash Clay
Terressentials 100% Organic Flower Therapy Masque
Zosimo's Botanicals Facial Masks
Good
Aubrey Organics Green Tea & Green Clay Rejuvenating Mask/Natural Herbal Oil Balancing Mask
Earth Science Mint Tingle Mask
John Masters Morroccan Clay Purifying Mask/Calendula Hydrating and Toning Mask
Simply UnscentedAlaska Glacial Mud Co. Unscented
Clinique Turnaround Instant Facial
Marcelle Clay Mask
Nurture My Body Gel Mask Fragrance Free
|
Home-made Alternatives
Almond Yogurt Honey Mask
Clay Mask
Oatmeal and Honey Mask Mix oatmeal with water and cook according to package directions. Allow to cool and mix with honey. Leave on face for 30 minutes. Rinse with warm water. (from www.ehow.com) |
Facial mists can contain synthetic fragrance, potentially carcinogenic coal tar colours, and hormone-disrupting preservatives such as parabens. When these chemicals are present in a product used as a mist, they are more easily inhaled into the lungs and transferred to the blood stream.
Best
Big Tub botanicals WakeUp Facial Mist
Dropwise Essentials Aromatic Mister
Herban Lifestyle Hydrating Facial Mists
Marie Veronique Organics Gentle Mist
Matter Company Neroli Water Facial Mist (Ont. co.)
Moonsnail Soapworks Aromatherapy Spritzers (PEI co.)
Mont Echo Sea Buckthorn Soothing Mist (Que. co.)
Only Green Pick-Me-Up Facial Mist
Pure Anada Marine Mineral Mist (Can. co.)
Raindance Hydrating Daytime Mist
Soleo Organics Hydra-Fresh Revitalizing Spritzer
Suis for Face & Body Facial Moisturizing Mist
Sigrid Morning Mist (Ont. co.)
Good
Authentic Skin Remedies Balance Seawater Facial Mist
bareMinerals Rare Minerals Moisture Burst Facial Mist
Ecco Bella Mist On Toner
Neal's Yard Remedies Facial Mists
Lip Gloss, Balms and Protectors
Mainstream lip glosses and lip balms may contain synthetic waxes and oils like mineral oil, petrolatum, glycerin and lanolin. Just as lipstick is readily ingested, so too are lip glosses and balms. According to Health Canada research, many glosses contain traces of lead, as do many lipsticks.
Colour in conventional lip balms and lip glosses come from a variety of coal tar dyes, which have different toxic properties. Artificial flavours are also popular additives. The ingredients in these flavours and their potential effects are almost completely unknown. Preservatives such as the endocrine-disrupting parabens and toluene-based BHT are also common in lip glosses and balms. Fragrance is often added to conventional products. Lip balms may also contain phenol, particularly if they are advertised as "medicated" or for cold sore relief. Phenol is an antimicrobial agent that can be absorbed by the skin, and is believed to be a neurotoxin. Health Canada prohibits its use in cosmetics sold in Canada.
Many conventional cosmetics manufacturers add chemical sunscreens to lip products to absorb ultraviolet rays. A lip gloss or balm may contain as many as 3 different chemical sunscreens. The most common are benzophenones, such as oxybenzone, and cinnamates, such as octinoxate. Both are hormone disruptors and may cause skin that is exposed to the sun to be sensitized. Retinyl palmitate, another sunscreen agent, is also present in many lip balms and glosses. In sunlight retinyl palmitate can break down to produce free radicals and potentially promote the development of skin cancer. Using conventional lip balms with a chemical sunscreen on a routine basis results in unnecessary and potentially risky chemical exposures. (See sun protection for more information on lip balms with safe sunscreen ingredients).
|
|
Best
Alaffia Lip Balms
Anointment Lip Balms (Nova Scotia co.)
Ava Anderson Lip Balms/Lip Glosses
Badger Organic Lip Balm/Cocoa Butter Lip Balms/Unscented Lip Balm
Bare Organics Organic Lip Balm
Bubble & Bee Organic Lip Balms (available unscented)
Carol's Daughter Lip Butter
Coastal Classic Creations Lip Gloss
Cosmic Tree Essentials Lip Care Confections (Nova Scotia co.)
Dropwise Essentials Aromatherapy Lip Balm
Elysian Dream Pure Olive Oil Lip Balm
Endangered Wildlife Lip Balms (made by The Merry Hempster)
face naturals Organic Lip Balms
Ferlow Botanicals Hemp Lip Balm (B.C. co.)
Healing Scents Cocoa Butter Lip Balm
Heiko Lip Therapy (Can. co.)
Hemp Organics Lip Balm/Karma Gloss
Hempola Lip Balm Watermelon Tube (Can. co.)
Himalaya Lip Balm (contains natural UV filter)
Hockley Honey Organic Lip Balms (available unflavoured)(Can. co. www.hockleyhoney.com)
Honey Girl Organics Lip Balm
Hugo Naturals Lip Balms
Inara Organic Body Lip Balm
Living Libations Lover Lips (Ont. co. www.livinglibations.com)
Loving Naturals 100% Organic Lip Balms
Miessence Jaffa Lip Balm
Mont Echo PurSea Lip Balms/Sea Buckthorn Lip Treatment (Que. co. www.montecho.com)
Mountain Sky Love Thy Lips Balms
Now Lip Balms
Olivier Soapery Lip Balm (Can. co.)
Perfect Organics Shea Butter Lip Balm
100% Pure Lip Gloss
rms beauty Lip and Skin Balm
Rocky Mountain soap Company Lip Butters (Can. co.)
Salon Naturals Hydrating Lip Lotion
Shea Touch Lip Treatment Balm
Shea Butter Market Lip Balms/Kiss Me I'm Canadian (B.C. co.)
Sigrid Green Hemp Lip Balm (Ont. co. www.sigridnaturals.com)
Smallbones Studi of Home Arts & Sustainable Living Lip Balms
Suki Lip Repair Butter
Terressentials 100% Organic Lip Protectors
The Great Canadian Soap Company Natural Lip Butter
The Merry Hempster Vegan Hemp Lip Balms
TheraNeem Lip Therape
Zosimos Botanicals Unscented Lip Balm
Good
Alba Botanica Coconut Cream Lip Balm/Passion Fruit Nectar Lip Balm/Clear Lip Glosses (without
sunscreen)
Alba Unpetroleum Jelly
Aubrey Organics Treat 'Em Right 91% Organic Lip Balms
Avalon Organics Organic Lip Balm
Avon mark Kiss Dry Goodbye Lip Smoother
Barefaced Minerals Lippie Styx/Lip Balm
bareMinerals 100% Natural Lip Gloss
Burt's Bees Beeswax Lip Balm/Super Glossy Natural Lip Shin/Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss
ChapStick Botanical Medley/Lip Balm All Natural
Desert Essence Shea Butter Lip Rescue
Dr. Bronner's Magic Organic Lip Balms
Eco Lips Eco Tints
Green Beaver Winter Lip Balm
Honeybee Gardens Lip Balm
Hurraw! Lip Balms
Jason Natural Cosmetics Lips Bee Healthier
Kiss My Face 100% Natural Lip Balms
Lavera Lip Gloss
LoriannZ Lip Gloss (Can. co.)
Moistick
Organic Indulgence Lip Balm
Outside/In Lip Glosses (Can. co.)
Pure Anada Lip Gloss (Can. co.)
Thursday Plantation
ZuZu Luxe Lip Gloss
Simply Unscented
Badger Unscented Lip Balm
Canus Goat's Milk Lip Balm
Marcelle Lux Gloss/Lux Gloss Sheer
Neosporin LT Lip Treatment
Neutrogena Lip Nutrition Lip Balm
Olay Regenerist Anti-Aging Lip Treatment
The Body Shop Coconut Lip Butter/Cocoa Butter Lip Care Stick
Vaseline Lip Therapy Petroleum Jelly
|
Home-made Alternatives Plain vegetable or nut oils like olive oil, almond oil. cocoa butter or shea butter. Easy Lip Balm 2 tsp. olive oil 1/2 Tbsp. shea butter or cocoa butter 1/2 tsp. honey flavoured oil to taste (optional) 1 Vitamin E capsule (optional) Melt the oil, honey, wax and butter over low heat. Allow a few minutes to cool; then add the flavouring and the contents of the Vitamin E capsule. Stir to blend, and then pour into container. For a firmer lip balm, grate a little beeswax into the ingredients (adapted from www.bellecitysoapworks.com). Non-Petroleum Jelly 2 ounces of beeswax or way of your choice 1 cup of oil of your choice Melt the beeswax in a double boiler or a microwave. Stir in the oil. Remove the mixture from the heat and stir until it is cool. This easy-to-make natural formula can do anything that petroleum jelly does, but without any harm. You can use it to heal scrapes and rashes or protect and add a little gloss to your lips. (adapted from www.care2.com) |
Lotions, Creams and Moisturizers
Lotions are basically a mixture of water and oils, with an emulsifier added to keep the product from separating. A variety of other chemicals are added to this mixture as moisturizing agents, thickeners and preservatives.
Mineral oil and petrolatum, both petroleum products, are widely used as oils in lotions to keep the skin moist and smooth by locking moisture in. Both mineral oil and petrolatum can be contaminated with potentially carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Propylene glycol and lanolin are also used for the same purpose. Propylene glycol is a recognized neurotoxin and is known to cause contact dermatitis at very low concentrations. Lanolin is an animal product that can be contaminated with pesticides. It may also cause allergies. Polyethylene glycol (PEG) compounds, such as ceteareth, are often used in lotions to create a smooth liquid film on the body. PEG compounds can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen. Polysorbate 60 and 80 are also used in lotions, and they may also be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane. TEA, a skin irritant and immune system toxicant, is also a common ingredient in lotions.
Preservatives like DMDM hydantoin, which is used in many moisturizers, and quaternium-15 can release carcinogenic formaldehyde. Estrogen-mimicking parabens, usually methylparaben and propylparaben, are also common preservatives in lotions and moisturizers. Retinyl palmitate, which is supposed to reduce wrinkles, is an ingredient in many facial creams and anti-aging products. Retinyl palmitate can produce free radicals and damage skin DNA. It can increase the risk of skin cancer when skin is exposed to UV light. Fragrance is added to most lotions, creams and moisturizers. Fragrance contains many toxic ingredients including asthma triggers and hormone disrupting phthalates. Fragrance ingredients such as limonene, lilial and geraniol may also be added both as fragrance and to mask chemical smells. These ingredients are known skin irritants.
Hand lotions are often just thicker versions of facial moisturizers. They work mainly by covering dry skin with oil, which can clog pores. Plant-based lotions like shea butter or cocoa butter can nourish the skin and provide long-term benefits.
Best
Anarres Natural Health Lotions (Tor. co.)
Anointment Shea Butter Cream
Auromere Hand & Body Lotion
Atlantic Healing Hemp Body Nutrition/Healing Hemp Cream/Foot & Leg Therapy
Ava Anderson Moisturizer
Avene Thermal Spring Water Gel
Awaken My Senses
Badger Every Day Moisturizers
Bare Organic Organic Massage Bars
Big Tub Botanicals Body Creams
Body Organic Lotions & Creams
Botanical Therapeutic Skin Cream/Skin Cream Plus (both unscented)
Bubble & Bee Organic Body Butters (unscented)
Burt’s Bees Outdoor Miracle Salve/Outdoor ResQ Ointment
Coastal Classic Creations Body Butters
Cococare 100% Cocoa Butter
Cosmic Tree Essentials Body Butter/Cocoa Calendula Lotions/Coconut Shea Tamanu Souffle (N.S. co.)
Desert Essence Hand & Body Lotions
Druide Pur & Pure Face and Body Lotion
Earth Safe Hand & Body Lotion (Clean Air Lotion is unscented)
Ella's Botanicals Lotions (Tor. co.)
Evan Healy Blue Chamomile Day Moisturizer/Rose Vetiver Day Moisturizer/Light Moisture Replenishing Fluids
face naturals Body Butters
Green Beaver Facial Moisturizer
Herbaliz Moisturizing Lotions/Real Green Cream
Herban Lifestyle Body Butter
Honey Girl Body Creme
Jiade Certified Organic Moisturizers
Key Soap Tortuga Therapeutic Lotion
Korres Yogurt Body Butter/Moisturizing Body Milk
Living Libations ChocolateKarat Face Serum/All Seeing Eye Cream (Ont. co.)
L'Occitane 100% Pure Shea Butter
Miessence Moisturizers/Skin Conditioners/Nourishing Hand Cream/Intensive Body Cream
Monave Pure Shea Butter
Mont Echo Sea Buckthorn Facial Moisturizer/Hand & Body Lotion (Que. co.)
Moonsnail Soapworks Luxury Face Cream/Fabulous Facial Moisturizer/Sea Buckthorn Healing Cream/
Moondew Nourishing Eye Cream
Mountain Sky Body Butter
Nature's Blends Daily Moisturizing & Hydrating Hand & Body Lotion
non toxic Skin Body Creams
Nurture My Body Hand & Body Lotions
Pure Anada Green Tea & Grapeseed Hydra Lotion/Berry & Bouquet Hydra Cream/ScentLESS Hydra Lotion
100% Pure Organic Moisturizers/Night Balms/Intensive Moisturizing Balm/Face Creams
Pure & Natural Daily Moisturizing & Hydrating Skin Cream
Purple Prairie Botanicals Olive Oil Lotions
Pure Shea Butter Organic Body Lotion/Royal Jelly Body Lotion/Karite Shea Protective Facial Cream/
Light Protective Facial Cream
Raindance Daily Moisturizer/Lotion for Mature Skin
Real Purity Facial Extraordinaire
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Unscented Body Butter (Can. co.)
rms beauty Lip & Skin Balm
Samantharoma Body Butter
Shea Butter Market Shea Hands
Sigrid Nurture Nature Unscented Face Cream/Carrots & Roses Face Cream/Rose Blossom Face Cream/Flower
Power Night Cream
Smack Skin Care Chili Body Butter/Fresh Body Butter/Lush Body Butter
Suki Moisture Rich Cleansing Lotion
Good
Acquarella Moisturizer
Aubrey Organics Calamine & Aloe Lotion/Rose Mosqueta RoseHip Seed Oil Moisturizing Nutrient/
Sea Buckthorn Rejuvenating Anti-Oxidant Serum/White Camelia Oil Soothing Emollient
Avalon Organics Olive & Grapeseed Hand & Body Lotion
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion/Active Naturals Daily Moisturizing Lotion (avilable unscented)
Be Green Bath & Body Lotion
California Baby Everyday Lotions
Caribbean Solutions Body Satin/Body Silk
Cleure Hydrovive Body Lotion
CVS EXfoliating Moisturizer/Vitamin E Moisturizing Skin Oil
Derma E Vitamin E Skin Oil/Very Clear Problem Skin Moisturizer/Microdermabrasion Recovery Serum 1/
Fruit Smoothee Serum/Pycnogenol Redness Reducing Serum Fragrance Free
Devita Nutritional Daytime Moisturizers
Dr. Bronners Magic Organic Lotions
Ecco Bella Botanicals Eye Nutrient Cream
Healing Scents Ultimate Lotions
Hugo Naturals All Over Lotion
Jason Vitamin E Oil/Shea Nut Butter
Neal's Yard Remedies Calendula & Oat Lotion
Organic Indulgence Facial Moisturizer
Plantlife Body Lotions
Real Purity Creme Supreme
San Re Organics Skinfood
The Merry Hempsters Hemp Balm
Simply Unscented
Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Lotion Fragrance Free
Aveda All-Sensitive Moisturizer
Aubrey Organics Unscented Ultimate Moisturizing Lotion
Avalon Organics Hand & Body Lotion Aloe Unscented
Avon mark Free For All Fragrance Free Body Lotion
Beauty Without Cruelty Lotion/Hand & Body Lotion Fragrance Free
Burt's Bees Fragrance Free Shea Butter & Vitamin E Body Lotion
Canus Goat's Milk Moisturizing Lotion Fragrance Free
Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion/Moisturizing Cream for Dry Sensitive Skin Fragrance Free
Clinique Moisturizing Lotion (many products fragrance free)
Complex 15 Therapeutic Moisturizing Lotion
Curel Continuous Comfort Moisturizing Lotion Fragrance Free
Dormer 211 Cream
Earth Science Almond Aloe Facial Moisturizer Fragrance Free
Ecco Bella Herbal Body Lotion Unscented
Eucerin Original Lotion/Original Cream/Calming Cream
Eucerin Glycerin Emollient or Eucerin Emollient (generic - available from most pharmacists
without prescription. This is a base used to make pharmaceutical creams.)
Glaxal Base Moisturizing Cream
Glysolid Cream Fragrance Free
Jergens Sensitive Skin Relief Fragrance Free Daily Moisturizer
Keri Lotion
Kiss My Face Fragrance Free Olive & Aloe Ultra Moisturizer
Lubriderm Daily Moisture Lotion Fragrance Free
Magick Botanicals Oil Free Moisture Lotion
Marcelle Moisture Lotion/Essentials Moisture Cream (all products fragrance-free)
Moisturel Therapeutic Cream
Neutrogena Norwegian Formula/Moisture Oil Free Formula Sensitive Skin
Olay Total Effects Moisturizing Vitamin Complex
Spectro Hydra Care Facial Moisturizers
|
Tips Shea Butter is especially good for dry skin and skin high in melanin (colour). Recipe for Basic Unscented Moisturizer 1/4 cup olive oil 1 1/4 cup distilled or spring water 1/4 cup emulsifying wax Fill a small saucepan with water and set it on medium low heat to use as a water bath. Combine the oil and wax in a heat-proof 1-cup measuring cup and melt the mixture in the water bath. Boil 1 1/4 cups of water and pour it into a 2-cup measuring cup. When the oil/wax mixture has melted, pour it into the measuring cup filled with water. Your lotion should now have the consistency of skim milk. Let it cool slightly. Stir with a spoon or chopstick and pour into a bottle while it's still warm and pourable. Leave the cap off to let it cool completely. Cap it occasionally and give it a shake to help blend the mixture. To vary the recipe, substitute 1/4 to 1/2 cup of the water with glycerin or rosewater for extra moisturizing action. Substitute or combine other oils -- avocado oil for dry or aged skin, peanut or sesame oil for oily skin. Sweet almond oil and apricot kernel oil are good for all skin types. Add any essential oils -- about 2 drops for each fluid ounce of lotion. (adapted from www.wabisabibaby.com and www.livestrong.com) Note: Do not use borax in home-made lotions. |
Many personal lubricants are preserved with parabens. Because parabens mimic estrogen and may disrupt the endocrine system, they should be avoided in all cosmetics, but particularly in personal lubricants. Propylene glycol, which may irritate skin and cause contact dermatitis, is also an ingredient in many lubricants. It enhances skin absorption, which enables other potentially toxic ingredients to be more easily absorbed. Other ingredients that are hazardous but much more rarely used in conventional lubricants include TEA, polyethylene glycol, FD&C Yellow 5, retinyl palmitate, BHT, cinnamol and fragrance.
Personal lubricants may be oil-, water- or silicone-based. It is important to know that lubricants, which are oil-based such as petroleum jelly, may cause sensitivity in some individuals. Also, petroleum and mineral oil in lubricants can cause latex to weaken and deteriorate.
Best
Bien Ella Amore Body Butter
Green Beauty Natural Coconut Oil Lubricant
Hathor Aphrodisiac Lubricant Pure (British Columbia co.)
Herba Choice Mari A 100% Natural Unscented Vegan Men & Women Lubricant
Honey Girl Organics
Radiant Love Lotion
XenEssence Un-Petroleum Jelly (Ont. co. with products only available in Canada www.xenessence.com)
(available unscented)
Yes Oil Based Lubricant
Zestra Feminine Arousal Fluid
Good
Avalon Un-Petroleum Multi-Purpose Jelly (without sunscreen)
Blossom Organics Warm Sensation Moisturizing Lubricant
Good Clean Love All Natural Personal Lubricant
Sylk Natural Lubricant
Simply Unscented
Doc Johnson Personal Lubricant Unscented
K-Y Jelly Sensual Silk Personal Lubricants/Personal Lubricant/Lubricating Jelly
K-Y Personal Lubricant Liquid
Vivid Girl Personal Lubricant Unscented
|
Home-made Alternatives Sweet almond oil, coconut oil, or olive oil. |
Conventional shaving creams are usually based on water and a combination of synthetic chemicals. These include chemicals that can be contaminated with traces of carcinogenic residues like the surfactant TEA, which can be contaminated with nitrosamines, and PEG 90-M, a binding agent that can be contaminated with ethylene dioxide, a known carcinogen, and 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen.
Propylene glycol, which acts as a moisture carrying ingredient in many skin products, is used in shaving creams. It is a known skin irritant, as are the two most popular gases, isobutane and isopentane, used as propellants in aerosol shaving creams. Isobutane, the more widely used of the two, can be contaminated with the carcinogen, butadiene. Shaving creams are often preserved with hormone-disrupting parabens, or BHA, classified by the US National Toxicology Program as "reasonably anticipated to be a carcinogen". Potentially toxic fragrance and FD&C colours are also common additives in shaving creams.
Best
Aubrey Organics Creme de la Shave
Dr. Bronner's Magic Shaving Gel/Shaving Soaps
Creating Harmony Shaving Soap
Hempen Stuff Shaving Soaps (Sask. co.)
Kimberly Parry Organics Shave for Men
Living Libations Zen Shave (Ont. co.)
Miessence Shaving Gel
Moonsnail Man on the Moon Shaving Soap (PEI co.)
Neal's Yard Remedies Close Shave Cream
Nurture My Body Shave Cream/Fragrance Free
Plantlife Foam Soaps
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Olde Windsor Men's Shaving Bar
Samantharoma Smooth Shaving Oil Mostly Hers
Sigrid Clean Shave Oil (Ont. co. www.sigridnaturals.com)
Smallbones Studio of Home Arts & Sustainable Living Soothing AfterShave Balm
(Can. co. www.smallbones.ca)
Soap for Goodness Sake Shaving Soap
Soapwalla Kitchen Organic Shaving Soap Bar
Good
Avalon Organics Moist Cream Shave/Unscented
Alba Botanica Moisturizing Shave Cream Unscented
John Masters Organics Birch & Cedarwood Cleansing & Shaving Bar
Just the Goods Shaving Solid/Unscented
King of Shaves Shaving Oil
Only Green Aloe Vera Shave Cream
Raindance Juniper Shaving Lotion
Real Purity Shaving Creme
Sircuit skin Smooth Operator Shaving Cream
Swissco Shave Soap
The Art of shaving Cream Unscented/Shaving Soap Unscented/Pre-Shave Oil
Vitamoor Shave
Williams Mug Shaving Soap
Simply Unscented
Aveeno Skin Relief Body Wash Fragrance Free (can be used to shave legs)
Clinique Cream Shave
Edge Advanced Gel Ultra Sensitive Fragrance Free
Kiss My Face Fragrance Free Moisture Shave
Nivea For Men Sensitive Shaving Gel
The Art of Shaving Shaving Soap Unscented for Sensitive Skin
|
Alternatives to shaving cream include: |
Aftershaves are designed to soothe irritated skin. They are usually based just on water and denatured alcohol, but are heavily fragranced and serve as perfumes for men. Many individual ingredients in fragrances are irritants, and some have been associated with neurotoxicity and cancer. One example is diethyl phthalate or DEP, used to prolong the scent of products. It is suspected of interfering with the endocrine system and causing reproductive problems. A 2007 study, published in Human Reproduction, found that DNA damage to the sperm of 379 men seeking care at an infertility clinic, was correlated with exposure to DEP and another phthalate, DEHP.
The ingredients in fragrances do not have to be disclosed, and they are listed on labels only as "fragrance", "parfum" or "aroma". In addition, other fragrance ingredients derived from natural sources, such as limonene from citrus rind or eugenol from clove oil, are now being added to many aftershave products. These ingredients are known to be strong skin irritants. Propylene glycol, another skin irritant, is used as a skin conditioning agent in many aftershaves. Conventional aftershaves are also often coloured with potentially toxic FD&C colours such as FD&C Yellow 5, FD&C Green 3 and D&C Violet 2./p>
Best
Acquarella Moisturizer
American Crew After Shave Moisturizer
Aubrey Organics Men's Stock Aftershave/Aftershave Balm
Coastal Classic Creations After Shave Oil/Cream
Cedar Spring Herb Farm After Shave Gel
Desert Essence 100% Pure Jojoba Oil (recommended for pre- and after shave)
Goodness Essentials Aftershave Moisturizer
Healing Scents Colognes/AfterShave
Herbaliz Aftershave
Honeybee Gardens for Men Herbal Aftershave
Korres Marigold Aftershave Balm
Little Moon Essentials Tired Old Ass Splash
LUVU Beauty Purifying Toner (Can. co.)
Miessence After Shave Balm
Parissa Azulene Oil
Pure & Basic Vitamin E Oil
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Body Butter (Can. co.)
Smallbones Studio of Home Arts & Sustainable Living Soothing Aftershave Balm
Thayers Witch Hazel/Alcohol Free Unscented Witch Hazel with Organic Aloe Vera
Good
Burt's Bees Skin Care for Men After Shave
Dr. Hauschka Skin Care Rhythmic Conditioner
EO After Shave Splash Tea Tree & Lemon
Gillette Servies After Shave Splash Cool Wave
Green Beaver Daily Facial Moisturizer for sensitive and acne prone skin
Joli Natural Skin Care Aftershave
Nature's Aid Skin Gel
Neal's Yard Remedies After Shave Balm
Olivier Soapery Men's Aftershave Cream (Can. co.)
Sircuit Skin Cool-Aid Protective Apres Shave Refreshing Gel
The Art of Shaving After Shave Balms/Unscented After Shave Balm
TheraNeem Neem Leaf & Aloe Gel Cooling Therape
Vitamoor After Shave
Weleda After Shave Balm/After Calm Replenishing Spray/After Shave Toning Spray
Simply Unscented
Clinique Post Shave Soother
Thayers Alcohol Free Unscented Witch Hazel with Organic Aloe Vera
|
Home-made Alternatives Aloe Vera Gel - Replace aftershave with 100% aloe vera gel. Purchase commercial aloe vera gel, or use aloe vera gel from your houseplants. Cut open leaf and rub on skin.
Annie Berthold-Bond's Basic Bay Rum Aftershave
2 to 4 cups dried bay leaves
Break the dried bay leaves in half. Fill a quart or pint mason jar with as many leaves as will fit to
about 3 inches from the top. Add a few sprigs of rosemary, if desired. Add enough rum to
come a good 2 inches above the leaves. Screw on the cover, and let sit for 1 month. Strain.
As a variation, add a bit of grated organic orange peel, cloves or ginger root. Keeps
indefinitely. |
Natural soap is easy to make. There is a tremendous variety of good soap available, much of it produced locally by small crafters. Natural soap is made from either animal or vegetable fat, with an alkali such as lye. Mainstream soaps contain perfumes, dyes, mineral oil and other petroleum-based chemicals that clog pores, irritate, and dry out skin. Bar soaps generally contain fewer harmful ingredients than liquid soaps.
Antibacterial chemicals are now common ingredients in conventional soaps, particularly in liquid hand soaps. Many people pick up anti-bacterial soaps without even realizing it. Others choose anti-bacterial soaps and cleansers because advertising implies that using them will help protect their families against colds and flus. However, colds and flus are caused by viruses, and anti-bacterial soaps have no effect on them at all. The Canadian Medical Association (CMA) and the US Centres for Disease Control say that simply washing your hands with any kind of soap is just as effective as using soap containing an antibacterial. Proper handwashing means rubbing hands under running water for 15 seconds. It is especially important before preparing food and after using the bathroom.
As well as being unnecessary, the chemicals in anti-bacterial soaps and cleansers are harmful. The two most commonly used are triclosan and triclocarban. Triclosan is a chlorinated aromatic hydrocarbon like PCBs or DDT. It is suspected of being an endocrine disrupting chemical, and it has been shown to harm the thyroid system in animals. Triclocarban is also a suspected endocrine disrupting chemical and has been shown to cause reproductive effects in animals. A 2006 Swedish study found high levels of triclosan in the breast milk of women who used personal care products containing antibacterials. Women who did not use personal care products with antibacterials also had antibacterials in their breast milk, but at lower levels.
The Canadian Medical Association has asked the federal Government to ban triclosan in consumer products because it may cause bacterial resistance -- the development of bacteria that can only be killed by different or stronger doses of chemicals. When bacteria become more resistant, it becomes more difficult to kill harmful bacteria, like strep, staph and e-coli, when we really need to. The CMA resolution echoes concerns raised by the American Medical Association as far back as 2000, regarding the lack of studies on the health and environmental effects of triclosan’s widespread use.
It has also been shown that mixing triclosan in tap water can lead to the production of chloroform, a carcinogen and nervous system depressant. As well, triclosan can be transformed into cancer-causing dioxins in the presence of heat and sunlight. Anti-bacterial soaps may be more irritating and drying to skin than regular soaps.
Although our lists of best and good soaps include a wide range of soaps, it is not an exhaustive list, and you will find many small companies producing high quality soaps for sale at local markets or health food stores.
Best
Aubrey Organics Bath Bars
Auromere Ayurvedic Soaps
Ballard Organics Fragrance Free Handmade Bar Soap/Fragrance Free All Purpose Concentrated Liquid
Soap
Bare Organics Organic Massage Bar (unscented)
Botanical Therapeutic Bar Soap
Bubble & Bee Organic Soaps/Shower Gel
Burt’s Bees Peppermint & Rosemary Body Bar/Outdoor Poison Ivy Soap
Cedar Point Soaps (Ont. co.)
Cleure Oatmeal Face & Body Bar/Glycerin Soap
Druide Pur and Pure Organic Soap Unscented
Earth Safe Liquid Hand & Body Wash (Can. co.)
Ella's Botanicals Bar Soaps and Liquid Soap (Toronto co.)
Emma Noel Olive Soaps
Elysian Dream Castille Liquid Soap Unscented/Plain Soap
Ferlow Botanicals Neem/Rosa Soaps (Can. co. www.ferlowbotanicals.ca)
Healing Scents Bar Soaps
Hempen Stuff Soaps (Saskatchewan co.)
Himalaya Organics Soaps
Hugo Naturals Bar Soaps (available unscented)
Kiss My Face Pure Olive Oil Soap
Kynk Naturals Soaps/Black Soap (Can. co.)
La Roche-Posay Toleriane Gentle Cleansing Bar
LUVU Beauty Cool Cucumber Hand Wash (Can. co.)
Miessence Cleansing Bars (Geranium and Tea Tree)/Foaming Hand Soap
Moonsnail Soapworks Bar Soaps (PEI co.)
Mountain Sky Bar Soaps (Can. co.)
Nature Clean Bar Soap Unscented/Liquid Soap Unscented/ Citrus Liquid Soap
Natural Spas Canada Nanaimo Bar Soap
Nuvo Olive Oil Soap
Olivier Soapery Bar Soaps(available Truly Unscented)/Liquid Hand Soap (Can. co.)
Organic Fuji Soaps (available fragrance free)
Pure and Natural AromaBeauty So Pure Baby Bar
Purple Prairie Botanicals Soaps
Rocky Mountain Soap Company Bar Soaps (available unscented)/Liquid Soaps/Foaming Wash
(Can. co.)
Samantharoma Just Soap
Smallbones Studio of Homes Arts & Sustainable Living Hemp Oil Soap & Shampoo Bar/Pure
Castille Soap/Liquid Castille Soap (Can. co. www.smallbones.ca)
Soap for Goodness Sake Bars
Soapsations Soaps (Toronto co.)
Soap Works Liquid Glycerin Soap Unscented (Can. co.)
Solay Unscented Green Tea Shampoo & Body Bar
Suki Sensitive Cleansing Bar
Terressentials Natural Unscented Glycerin Soap/Real Soap for Hands
Theraneem Organix Cleansing Bar
Tom's of Maine Natural Deodorant Body Bar
Trader Joe's Oatmeal & Honey Soap
Val's Veggie Bars/Foaming Soaps
Good
Deep Steep Foaming Hand Wash
Desert Essence Cleansing Bar Tea Tree Therapy/Castille Liquid Soap with Organic Tea Tree Oil
Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps Pure Castille Soap/18-in-1 Hemp Peppermint Pure Castille Liquid Soap
Down East Hand and Body Wash
Druide Vivifying/Nourishing Soaps
Escents Handmade Soaps
Hugo Naturals Foaming Hand Soap
John Masters Organics Soaps
Organic Indulgence Foaming Hand Wash
Pure and Natural Liquid Hand Wash
Soap Works Bar and Liquid Soaps (except carbolic and coal tar bars)
Tom's of Maine Sensitive Beauty Bar Unscented
Simply Unscented
Alpha Hydroxy Foaming Face Wash
Aveeno Moisturizing Bar Fragrance Free
Body Sense Fresh & Free Fragrance Free Soap
Canus Goats Milk Moisturizing Soap Unscented
Clearly Natural Glycerin Bar Soap Unscented
Clinique Facial Soap/Liquid Facial Soap
Dermaglow Sensitive Gentle Foaming Cleanser
Dove Sensitive Skin Unscented Bar Soap/Body Wash
Jergens Natural Skin Care Bar Unscented
Olivier Soapery Truly Unscented Soap
Marcelle Foaming Cleansing/Cleansing Water/Hydra C Self Foaming Cleanser
Neutrogena Transparent Facial Bar Soap Fragrance Free
Phisoderm Skin Cleansing Bar Unscented for Sensitive Skin
Soapworks Pure Glycerin/Pure Vegetable Glycerin/Olive Oil/Goat Milk Soaps (Can. co.)
There are two reasons why people use sun protection: to protect against sunburn, and to protection against skin cancer. As the ozone layer thins, it's important to avoid sunburns and skin damage, especially for children, as too much sun is a risk for skin cancer.
Sunscreens work in two different ways. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing ultraviolet rays before they reach the skin's surface. Mineral blocks work by physically blocking the sun's rays from reaching the skin. There are questions about the effectiveness and the health impacts of both types of sunscreen.
The most common ingredients in chemical sunscreens are oxybenzone, cinnamates and retinyl palmitate. To achieve a high sun protection factor, they are often combined as active ingredients in chemical sunscreens. PABA used to be the most popular chemical absorber, but it proved to be so harsh that most manufacturers no longer use it or the PABA ester, Padimate O.
Oxybenzone, also listed as 4-MBC or benzophenone 3, is now the most widely-used sunscreen chemical. Because it can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, there are serious concerns about its safety. Not only can it disrupt the body's hormones, oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and enter the bloodstream. As a result, it shows up in the bodies of almost everyone who's been tested. For some people, it also increases sensitivity to the sun.
Cinnamates, which are often used in waterproof sunscreens, are also a concern. They too can disrupt the body's hormones, cause allergies and may be toxic to the immune system. Retinyl palmitate, a synthetic form of Vitamin A, is another popular sunscreen ingredient. Acording to a US Food and Drgu Administration study, retinyl palmitate is suspected of increasing skin cancer risk when skin is exposed to sunlight.
The most common mineral blocks are zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These naturally occurring minerals are generally safer and more effective than chemical sunscreens. They create a barrier against sun damage by scattering or reflecting the ultraviolet rays of light, and they are less likely to penetrate the skin. However, the introduction and widespread use of nanoparticles of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide in sunscreens raises new concerns.
Nanoparticles are very small particles, a tiny fraction of the size of normal particles. There are concerns that, because of their tiny size, they have significantly different properties than their large scale counterparts. The use of nanoparticles in sunscreens and other personal care products is relatively recent. Few studies have investigated the safety of nanoparticles of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. Friends of the Earth reviewed existing research and found that in test tube studies, nanosized zinc oxide or titanium dioxide can produce free radicals, which can damage DNA and cause cell toxicity, especially when exposed to ultraviolet light.
Most companies have adopted nanotechnology in mineral sunscreens so that no white residue shows on the skin after sunscreen is applied. Even many companies using natural and organic ingredients now use nanoparticles in their formulations. Nanoparticles are usually defined as being less than 100 nanometers, although toxic properties of manufactured nanomaterials have been observed at up to 300 nanometers, according to Friends of the Earth. When ingredients are listed on a label, there is no way of knowing whether an ingredient is nano-size. Some ingredient labels will say "micronized". Although a micron is 1,000 nanometers, sunscreens with "micronized" ingredients generally contain the smaller nanoparticles less than 100 nanometers in size.
Other hazardous ingredients to avoid in all sunscreens are synthetic fragrances, which include phthalates and other hazardous chemicals, dyes, and parabens. Spray sunscreens should be avoided because aerosol sprays create small particles that are easily inhaled.
At this point, evidence indicates that sunscreens alone are not a reliable protection against skin cancer. Sunscreens do provide protection against sunburn. However, the incidence of skin cancer continues to rise, even as sunscreens are more widely used. Researcher Marianne Berwick, an epidemiologist at the University of New Mexico, found that people who use sunscreens seem to have a lower rate of squamous cell carcinoma, the least serious type of skin cancer, which is usually treated easily by surgery. She also found that sunscreen users seem to have a higher risk of melanoma, the more deadly skin cancer. Berwick believes this may be because that sunscreen users stay out in the sun longer.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recommends that sunscreens not be the first choice, or the only way, of protecting yourself against the sun. The safest bet is to wear sunglasses, a hat and shirt, stay in the shade as much as possible, and even use a sun umbrella. Time your activities to avoid the sunniest times of day or year. For short periods in the sun, shea butter, cocoa butter, avocado oil and sesame oil all provide mild amounts of sun protection if you prefer to avoid commercial sun protection products.
Many factors, including your health history, skin type and whether you have to be outside in direct sun will determine personal choices about sunscreens. When sunscreens are needed, the best choice is a sunscreen with a mineral block but without nanoingredients although they are difficult to find. If you do use sunscreen products, it's best to wash them off when you are inside.
|
Health Alert Tanning beds and spray tans create an unnecessary health risk. A 2010 study by University of Minnesota researchers found that tanning beds increased the risk of melanoma for users by 74 per cent. Spray tans have been found to contain lead, mercury and arsenic, heavy metals which are toxic to the brain and other organs. |
More detailed information on sucsreens is available from the Environmental Working Group
at www.ewg.org
Best (Sunscreen) (mineral blocks with no nanoparticles less than 300 nanometers)
Anarres - Safe Sun Protection Cream (Toronto co.)
Ava Anderson - Sunscreen SPF 30+
Ford’s - Sunscreen Chemical-Free Fragrance-Free SPF 15 (Vitamin C, Green Tea, Zinc) – available from Ford’s Pharmacy, Moncton (www.fordrx.com)
Green Beaver Organic SPF 30 Adult Body Lotion/Kids Non-Whitening Sunscreen Lotion
Kabana Skin Care - Green Screen Organic Sunscreen Fragrance Free SPF 20; Green Screen
Organic Sunscreen SPF 22 Skin Tone Tinted (www.kabanaskincare.com)
Marie Veronique - Organics Kid Safe Screen SPF 25 (www.myorganics.com)
Soleo Organics - All Natural Sunscreen SPF 30+; Soleo Organics-Atlantis Resort All Natural Sunscreen SPF 30+; Soleo Organics-Wyland Organics All Natural Sunscreen
SPF 30+ (www.soleoorganics.com
Good (mineral blockers that may contain micronized or nanoparticles of zinc oxide or titanium dioxide)
Alba Botanica Sun - Mineral Sunscreen Fragrance Free SPF 30; Mineral Sunscreen Kids SPF 30
All Terrain - Aquasport Performance Sunscreen SPF 30; KidSport Performance Sunscreen SPF 30;
TerraSport Performance Sunscreen SPF 30
Badger - Sunscreen for Face & Body SPF 30 Unscented; Sunscreen for Face & Body SPF 30 and SPF 15 Lightly Scented; Sunscreen Face Stick SPF 30 Unscented
Blue Lizard - Australian Sunscreen Sensitive SPF 30; Australian Sunscreen Baby SPF 30+
California Baby - Sunblock Stick No Fragrance SPF 30+; Sunscreen Lotion No Fragrance SPF 30+
Carribean Solutions - Natural Biodegradable Sol Guard SPF 25; Sol Kid Kare Natural Sunscreen SPF 25
Coola - SPF 45 Mineral Baby Moisturizer Unscented
Desert Essence - Age Reversal SPF 30 Mineral Sunscreen
Heiko - SPF 40 Kids (Canadian company)
Jason Natural Cosmetics - Sunbrellas Mineral Based Physical Sunblock SPF 30; Sunbrellas Chemical
Free Sunblock SPF 30; Earth's Best Sunblock Mineral Based SPF 30
Lavera - Sunscreen Block SPF 20 Unscented
L'uvalla Certified Organic - SPF 20 Sunscreen Face-Body
Loving Naturals - Sunscreen SPF 30+
Mexitan - Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30; Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50
Miessence - Reflect Outdoor Balm SPF 15
Purple Prairie Botanicals - SunStuff SPF 30; Sun Stick SPF 30; SunStuff SPF 15
Real Purity - Zinc Oxide Sunscreen
Suntegrity Skin Care - All Natural Moisturizing Face Protector SPF 30
Thinksport Live Strong - Sunscreen SPF 30+
Trukid - Sunny Days Mineral All Natural Sunscreen SPF 30+; Sunny Days Face & Body Stick SPF 30+
UV Natural - Sunscreen SPF 30+; Sunscreen Sport SPF 30+; Baby Sunscreen SPF 30+
Not as Good as Good but Widely Available (chemical and/or mineral blocks that contain some common hazardous ingredients)
Aubrey Organics - Natural Sun SPF 25 Green Tea Protective Sunscreen; Natural Sun SPF 25 for Active Lifestyles
Avalon Organics - Baby Natural Mineral Sunscreen SPF 18
Johnson & Johnson - Baby Sunscreen Lotion SPF 40
La Roche-Posay - Anthelios 40 Sunscreen Cream (Unscented)
Nature's Gate - Mineral Kidsblock SPF 20; Mineral Sportblock SPF 20
Simply Unscented
This category indicates only that a product contains no natural or synthetic scents. However, simply unscented sunscreens may be chemical sunblocks and/or may contain common hazardous ingredients. Unscented sunscreens are also identified in the Best and Good categories as "unscented" or "fragrance free".
Alba - Mineral Fragrance Free Sun Bloc SPF 30+
Clinique - City Block Sheer SPF 15
Coppertone - Sunscreen Lotion Fragrance Free SPF 15; Sunscreen Lotion Fragrance Free SPF 30;
Eucerin Extra Protective Moisture Lotion SPF 30 Fragrance Free
Nature's Gate - Faceblock SPF 25 Fragrance Free; Aqua Block SPF 50 Very Water Resistant Fragrance Free;
Kid's Block SPF 30 Fragrance Free
Neutrogena - Titanium Dioxide Sunsceen SPF 30 for Sensitive
Skin
L'Oreal - Ombrelle Suncare Research SPF 15 and SPF 30
Vichy - Capital Soleil
Best
Green Beaver - Certified Organic SPF 15 Lip Balm (Can. co.)
Hurraw! SPF 15 Sun Block Lip Balm
Mountain Sky Peach Lip Balm for Fun in the Sun
UV Naturals Lip Sunscreen SPF 30
|
Home-made Alternatives Beeswax Sunscreen 1 cup olive oil or natural oil 1 ounce beeswax 2 tablespoons pure zinc oxide or titanium dioxide (available in drug stores) Heat the oil over a low flame in a double boiler. Add the beeswax and stir until beeswax melt completely. Continue stirring and add the zinc oxide or titanium dioxide gradually while stirring. Put into a small container and cool.(adapted from www.iloveindia.com) |