carcinogenic ethylene oxide to make other chemicals less harsh. The Environmental Working Group
(EWG) has found 1,4-dioxane in 57 percent of baby
washes in the U.S. Avoid any ingredients containing the letters “eth.”
Formaldehyde: Probable carcinogen and irritant
found in nail products, hair dye, fake eyelash adhesives, shampoos. Banned in the EU.
Fragrance/Parfum: A catchall for hidden chemicals, such as phthalates. Fragrance is connected
to headaches, dizziness, asthma, and allergies.
Hydroquinone: Used for lightening skin. Banned in
the UK, rated most toxic on the EWG’s Skin Deep
database, and linked to cancer and reproductive
toxicity.
Lead: Known carcinogen found in lipstick and hair
dye, but never listed because it’s a contaminant,
not an ingredient.
Mercury: Known allergen that impairs brain development. Found in mascara and some eye drops.
Mineral Oil: By-product of petroleum that’s used in
baby oil, moisturizers, styling gels and other products. It creates a film that impairs the skin’s ability
to release toxins.
Oxybenzone: Active ingredient in chemical sunscreens that accumulates in fatty tissues and is
linked to allergies, hormone disruption, cellular
damage, low birth weight.
Parabens: Used as preservatives, found in many
products. Linked to cancer, endocrine disruption,
and reproductive toxicity.
Paraphenylenediamine (PPD): Used in hair
products and dyes, but toxic to skin and immune
system.
Phthalates: Plasticizers banned in the EU and
California in children’s toys, but present in many
fragrances, perfumes, deodorants, lotions. Linked
to endocrine disruption, liver kidney, and lung
damage and cancer.
Placental extract: Used in some skin and hair
products, but linked to endocrine disruption.
Polyethylene glycol (PEG): Penetration enhancer
used in many products, it’s often contaminated
with 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, both known
carcinogens.
Silicone-derived emollients: Used to make a
product feel soft. These don’t biodegrade and
also prevent skin from breathing. Linked to tumor
growth and skin irritation.
Sodium lauryl (ether) sulfate (SLS, SLES): A former industrial degreaser now used to make soap
foamy, SLS/SLES is absorbed into the body and
irritates skin.
Talc: Similar to asbestos in composition, it’s found
in baby powder, eye shadow, blush and deodorant. Linked to ovarian cancer and respiratory
problems.
Toluene: Known to disrupt the immune and endocrine systems, and fetal development. It’s used in
nail and hair products. Often hidden under fragrance.
Triclosan: Found in antibacterial products, hand
sanitizers, and deodorants. It is linked to cancer
and endocrine disruption. Avoid the brand Microban.
6 | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2015 AFIYA MAGAZINE