|
 Ingredients
to Avoid in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
Broad
Ingredient Categories
Sunscreen
Ingredients to AVOID
Patti
and Tamey's Top Six
Ingredients
to Avoid in Household Products
Ingredients to Avoid in Cosmetics and
Personal Care Products
To pull together a list of ingredients that are questionable for
use in our everyday products, we turned to the experts. Lucky for
us consumers, there are several consumer health and environmental
advocacy groups that have been paying attention to this sort of thing
for a long time.
The Pure Know How list is a composite from the many
lists produced by these organizations - so you won't have to! Check
out their resources and website listed in our Reference Links section.
Stay tuned - we'll have a pocket sized list you can order soon.
Look out for these individual chemical
ingredients
Acetone
Used in nail polish remover and finishes. It can cause peeling and
splitting of nails, skin rashes and nail brittleness. Inhalation may
irritate the lungs and in large amounts it is narcotic, causing symptoms
of drunkenness similar to ethanol. The FDA proposed a ban in astringent.
Alpha Hydroxyl Acids (AHA) and Beta Hydroxy Acids ( BHA)
Skin peeling products, mainly face, body creams and lotions, are designed
to diminish wrinkles and blemishes by stripping off the outer layer
of skin to produce a smoother finish. They penetrate the skin and
can cause adverse skin reactions. May increase sensitivity to sunlight,
therefore increase photo-aging and risk of sun-related skin cancers.
Aluminum Chlorohydrate
Most frequently used antiperspirants; it acts by altering the pH level
of the skin on which it is applied, thereby retarding the flow of
perspiration. Causes occasional infections of hair follicles, skin
irritation and allergic reactions.
Benzoyl Peroxide
A bleaching and drying ingredient in cosmetics. A skin allergen, irritant
and toxic by inhalation. Canada does not permit in cosmetics intended
to be applied to the skin but it is permitted in artificial nail kits.
On Canadian
Hotlist and rated as a high hazard by the Skin
Deep Cosmetic database.
Bisphenol A (BPA)
BPA is used to make polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins and thus
is found in variety of consumer products including baby bottles, nail
polish, and lining of tin cans, plastic food containers and electronic
appliances. They are linked to the affecting the reproductive system,
endocrine disruption and accumulating in the body without breaking
down.
Bronopol (2-brono-2-nitropropane-1-3)
Used as a preservative in cosmetics, especially shampoos, creams,
lotions, rinses, bat products and eye make-up, as it inhibits bacteria,
fungi and yeasts. It can form nitrosamine - which has been determined
to form cancer in lab animals and also break down into formaldehyde.
The Consumer Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients advises “if a product
lists an ingredient with bronopol and another compound ending with
“amine” or “amide”, don't purchase it.
Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT)
BHT's are preservatives and antioxidants in cosmetics, foods and beverages.
Can cause allergic reactions and contact dermatitis. Contains toluene
which is a neurotoxin, endocrine disruptor, and may promote toxicity
in organ system (non-reproductive).
Camphor
Used in emollient creams, preshave lotions, after shave lotions and
skin fresheners and perfumes as a preservative and to give a cool
feeling to the skin. Local irritant which may cause contact dermatitis
and is a central nervous system stimulant. It is readily absorbed
through body tissues and can irritate eyes, nose, and throat can prompt
dizziness, confusion nausea. Avoid inhaling vapors. On the Health
Canada Cosmetic
Ingredient Hot List.
Coal-Tar and Coal Tar Derivatives
Coal tar appears in many hair dyes and strong dandruff and psoriasis
shampoos, but the FDA failed to ban it even though studies have linked
it to cancer. Coal-tar chemicals are found in many "FD&C"
or "D&C" colours used in makeup and hair dye. FD&C
Blue 1 and FD&C Green 3 are possible carcinogenic, and impurities
in other colours -- D&C Red 33, FD&C Yellow 5 and FD&C
Yellow 6 -- have been shown to cause cancer when applied to the skin.
Coal tar derivatives are used as a dye base for dark hair colouring.
Coal tar is a known human carcinogen and some substances derived from
it that are used in hair colouring have been linked to bladder cancer
and non-Hodgkin's' lymphoma. See Colourants
101.
Cyclopentasiloxane
A widely used silicone in hair and skin conditioners and also in
deodarants, suntan gels, and cosmetics. Suspected as an endocrine
disrupter.
Dibutyl-phthalate (DBP) is of particular concern because documented
exposures are high and its health effects are potentially very serious.
In nail polish and mascara, DBP helps thin films stay flexible, reducing
brittleness and cracking. Animal studies show that DBP causes birth
defects and harm to male reproductive organs. Timing of exposure was
critical: Harm was done to animals exposed in the womb or shortly
after birth. A 2002 Environmental Working Group (EWG) report found
DBP in 37 nail products from 22 different companies. Their 2002 report,
"Not Too Pretty" found phthalates in 52 of 72 different
personal-care products.
Dimethylphthalate (DMP) and diethylphthalate (DEP)
are two other commonly used phthalates which are used to make scents
last longer.
Diethanolamine (DEA)
Diethanolamine (DEA), triethanolamine (TEA), and monoethanolamine
(MEA) are widely used in shampoos, lotions and creams as a skin softener
and thickener and is readily absorbed into the skin. DEA is a strongly
suspected as being a human carcinogen. These chemicals are also known
to combine with nitrates to form cancer-causing nitrosamines - compounds
shown to cause cancer in laboratory animals. If a product contains
nitrites (used as a preservative or present as a contaminant 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
government does not require manufacturers to disclose this information
on the label. A 1997 study by the U.S. National Toxicology Program
found that these compounds themselves might also be carcinogenic.
Repeated skin application of DEA was found to cause liver and kidney
damage in animals. The study also discovered that when absorbed through
the skin, DEA accumulated in organs. TEA may also cause contact dermatitis
in some individuals.
Dimethicone
A silicone oil used as a skin protectant. Used to coat the skin, trapping
anything beneath it and does not allow the skin to breathe. Recent
studies have indicated that prolonged exposure of the skin to sweat,
by a barrier, causes skin irritation.
Ethanol (Rubbing alcohol)
An antibacterial used in mouthwashes, nail enamel, astringents, perfumes
and many other cosmetic products. Avoid inhalation, as may cause drowsiness,
impaired vision and stupor.
Formaldehyde
Found in eye shadows, mascaras, other cosmetics, and in high percentages
(up to 10%) in nail hardeners, it is widely used as a preservative,
germicide and fungicide. It has recently been reclassified by the
International Agency for Research on Cancer to its highest toxic class
as a "known human carcinogen". May be listed on labels as
formalin or methyl aldehyde, but is also hidden in many chemical combinations.
It can cause allergic reactions, headaches, and chronic fatigue.
In its liquid state, formaldehyde, present in the ingredients DMDM
hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15, can be absorbed through
the skin and nails. As a volatile organic compound, or VOC, formaldehyde
evaporates when the product is wet; levels drop sharply once it's
dry. Consumer concern has led many manufacturers to remove it from
their nail polishes. Quaternium-15 causes more dermatitis complaints
than any other preservative, according to the American Academy of
Dermatology. Bronopol, often listed as 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1, 3-diol,
can contribute to the formation of cancer-causing nitrosamines, according
to the FDA. It can also break down to produce formaldehyde.
Glycol Ethers
Widely used industrial solvents found in nail polish, deodorant, perfumes
and other cosmetics, some glycol ethers are hazardous to the reproductive
system. Other effects of overexposure include anemia and irritation
of the skin, eyes, nose and throat. Avoid those listed on labels as
EGPE, EGME, EGEE, DEGBE, PGME, DPGME and those with "methyl" in their
names.
Hydrogenated Cottonseed Oil
Contamination of oil during production includes contact with pesticides,
PCBS and other organic matter like mercury, arsenic, and lead.
Isopropyl Alcohol
Also known as rubbing alcohol. Used in many cosmetic products including
make-up, shampoos, and moisture lotions as an antibacterial, solvent
and denaturant. It is prepared from propylene, which is obtained in
the cracking of petroleum. Drying to the skin especially in higher
concentrations.
Lead
Lead is a known carcinogen and hormone disruptor. It is readily absorbed
through the skin, and accumulates in the bones. It causes neurological
damage and behaviour abnormalities, and large accumulations can result
in leg cramps, muscle weakness, numbness and depression. Lead is found
in some hair dyes.
Lead Acetate
Used primarily by men to disguise their grey hair in men's hair colouring
is banned in Canada and Europe because it is suspected carcinogen
and reproductive toxin. It is listed on Health Canada's Cosmetic Ingredient
Hotlist "based on data indicating skin absorption and possible
links to carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicity." Canadian
products must be free of the chemical by the end of 2006.
The Skin Deep cosmetic safety database rates this ingredient a very
high hazard at 10/10.
Methylene Chloride
Used in nail enamels and cleansers. It is a skin irritant and can
be absorbed through the skin and converted to carbon monoxide. The
FDA has banned its use in cosmetics “because of its animal carcinogenicity
and likely a hazard to human health”. Not permitted in aerosols
in Canada and is on the Canadian Hotlist.
Monoethanolamine (MEA)
Moderate skin and severe eye irritant. Unsafe in products left on
skin and not rinsed off. MEA is a sensitizer and can instigate immune
system response that can include itching, burning, scaling, hives
and blistering of skin. Nitrosamines, a known carcinogen, can form
in all cosmetic ingredients containing "amines" and amino
derivatives with nitrogen compounds. See also Diethanolamine (DEA)
and Triethanolamine (TEA).
Mineral Oil
Widely used on baby creams and lotions, cleansing/moisturizing and
eye creams hair products and make-up. A liquid mixture of liquid hydrocarbons
obtained from petroleum. Interferes with skin's ability to breathe,
slows down skin function and cell development. Can cause allergic
reactions, dryness and clog pores. Also known as paraffin oil, paraffin
wax, and petrolatum.
Nylon
Used as a fiber in eyelash lengtheners and mascara and as a molding
compound to shape cosmetics. A petroleum-based product that can cause
allergic reactions.
Parabens
Methyl-, propyl-, ethyl- and butylparaben are used as inhibitors of
microbial growth and to extend shelf life of products and are the
most common preservatives used in cosmetics. It is estimated that
75-90% of cosmetics contain parabens. Parabens are easily absorbed
through the skin. Parabens are a common allergen - causing allergic
reactions and skin rashes. Parabens are also known endocrine disruptors,
as they mimic the female hormone estrogen. Meaning they bind to estrogen
receptors in women and could potentially affect estrogen-sensitive
functions of the body. Parabens are linked to the development
of breast cancer. The cumulative effect of parabens combined with
other hormone disrupting chemicals affect our bodies is a noted concern.
Petrolatum (vaseline, petroleum jelly)
Commonly used in cold creams, conditioning creams, eye pencils and
shadows, baby products and lipsticks (used as a lubricant in lipsticks
for smooth application and shine). Provides a barrier on the skin
which can protect the skin from irritation but also prevents the skin
from taking in oxygen and respiring out waste. Petrolatum can cause
allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. It is a purified mixture
of semisolid hydrocarbons from petroleum – a reported cancer causing
ingredients. Its use depletes a non-renewable resource. Prohibited
for use in cosmetics in the European Union.
p-Phenylenediamine (PPD) - 4-MMPD and 4-MMPD Sulphate
Found in most commercial permanent hair dyes, PPD is linked with skin
irritations, eczema, and respiratory disorders. It can react with
other chemicals to cause photosensitivity. PPD is mutagenic (capable
of altering DNA codes, a precursor to cancers) and reasonably anticipated
to be a human carcinogen. Also called oxidation dyes, amino dyes,
para dyes, or peroxide dyes. It has been banned in Europe. The US
Food and Drug Administration proposed legislation would require warning
labels on products, advising that this ingredient can penetrate skin
and has been determined to cause cancer in lab animals. Health Canada
considers hair dye made with PPD to be safe and is an acceptable ingredient
when used correctly, in products that do not come in contact with
skin for a long period of time. Health Canada strongly advises a "patch
test" for hair dye. The Skin Deep cosmetic safety database rates
this ingredient a very
high hazard at 10/10 and is also listed on their dirty dozen (ingredients
to avoid list).
Phthalates
Phthalates are chemical plasticizers and are used widely in fragrances,
deodorants, nail polishes, hair products and lotions. The oily texture
of phthalates acts like a moisturizer and helps lotions penetrate
skin. Phthalates are also used to enhance fragrances, as solvents,
and to denature alcohol. These endocrine-disrupting chemicals are
suspected of contaminating breast milk and causing damage to the kidneys,
liver, lungs and reproductive organs. A study published in Environmental
Health Perspectives (December 2002) found that DEP is damaging to
the DNA of sperm in adult men at current levels of exposure. DNA damage
to sperm can lead to infertility and may also be linked to miscarriages,
birth defects, infertility and cancer in offspring. Other medical
literature links them to various reproductive defects in developing
male fetuses (when mother is exposed during pregnancy), as well as
early puberty in girls. Since, phthalates often "hide" behind
the term "fragrance" choose products labeled "fragrance-free"
or that are scented exclusively with pure botanical or essential oils.
Phthalates are also present in, and can evaporate from, soft vinyl
(PVC) toys, flooring and other products, which should be avoided.
For more information, search for "phthalates" at www.thegreenguide.com.
For an in-depth report on phthalates read Not
Too Pretty - Phthalates, Beauty Products and the FDA by the US-based
Environmental Working Group.
Polyethylene and Polyethylene glycol (PEG ingredients)
Found in many personal care products like hand lotions, hair colourings,
suntan products, deodorants, baby-care products and make-up. This
synthetic chemical is used as a binder, plasticizing ingredient, solvent
and softener for cream bases. Improves resistance to moisture and
oxidation. PEG compounds are safe in themselves but should not be
used on damaged skin. They can be contaminated with 1,4- dioxane,
a suspected carcinogen, which produced liver cancer in rodents in
National Cancer Institute (NCI) studies and are under review by the
Cosmetic Ingredient Panel in the US.
Propylene Glycol
A humectant, or moisture-attracting ingredient, found in mascara,
lotions, creams and other cosmetics, can irritate skin in sensitive
individuals. Ideally, this is a vegetable glycerin mixed with grain
alcohol, both of which are natural. Often it is a synthetic petro-chemical
mix used as a humectant (because it is cheaper and more readily absorbed
through the skin). It has been known to cause allergic and toxic reactions
when used in high percentages, and is recognized as a neurotoxin by
the National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety in the U.S.
Quaternarium-15
Widely used in shampoos and other hair products, face and body lotions
bath products, makeup, cleansers as well as suntan preparations as
an anti-microbial ingredient that is active against bacteria. It is
a formaldehyde releaser and is the number one cause of dermatitis
from preservatives according to the American Academy of Dermatology’s
Testing Tray results. It is toxic, avoid.
Resorcinol
A preservative used in hair dyes, lipstick and other hair tonics.
Irritating to the skin and mucous membrancs and may cause allergic
reaction. The FDA issued a notice in 1992 that it has not been shown
to be safe as stated for over-the-counter prodcuts, The Cosmetic Ingreent
Review Panel concluded that is safe as a cosmetic ingredient. The
EU is currently looking at the data. The Skin Deep cosmetic safety
database rates this ingredient high
hazard - an 8/10.
Salicylic Acid
Used as a preservative and antimicrobial in externally products used
as an antiseptic ingredient and fungicide. It is used as a keratolytic
drug applied topically to treat acne to slough skin. Also being widely
promoted in anti-aging beta hydroxide products. It can be absorbed
through the skin and is a penetration enhancer whereby it alters skin
structure to allow other chemicals to penetrate deeper into the skin.
The EU has banned it for children under 3 years except in shampoos
and it is noted on Canada’s Hot list as restricted for concentrations
equal to or less than 2%. Cosmetic Ingredient Review Assessments found
it safe for use in cosmetics when it is formulated to avoid irritation
and when formulated to avoid increasing sun sensitivity or when directions
for use include daily use of sun protection.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLS)
SLS's are synthetic surfactants or surface acting agents, used as
a detergent and for their sud/foam-building abilities. It is present
in ninety per cent of commercial shampoos, as well as skin creams
and some brands of toothpaste. This chemical can cause eye irritations,
skin rashes, hair loss, scalp scurf similar to dandruff, and enhances
allergic response to other toxins and allergens. The U.S. government
has warned manufacturers of unacceptable levels of dioxin formation
in some products containing this ingredient. The chemical can react
with other ingredients to form cancer-causing nitrosamines. Sodium
laureth sulfate may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a carcinogen.
Dioxane readily penetrates the skin. While 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 list this
information. The Cosmetics Ingredient Review (CIR), a panel of cosmetics-industry
experts established to safety-test ingredients (cir-safety.org), reported
that SLS also causes "severe epidermal changes" to mouse skin, a finding
that "indicates a need for tumor-enhancing activity assays." This
year, after review of over 250 existing SLS studies, the CIR concluded
that SLS is not cancer-causing. However, Samuel Epstein, M.D., author
of the Safe Shopper's Bible, says he is not convinced and recommends
avoiding SLS.
Toluene
This solvent is found in nail products and is obtained from petroleum
or by distilling Tolu balsam. Also known as methylbenzene. Overexposure
may cause fatigue, confusion, headache, dizziness, or numbness. Can
cause liver damage and is irritating to the skin, respiratory tract,
central nervous system and kidneys.
Triclosan (Trilocarban)
A very strong antibacterial preservative used in many personal care
products and it highly absorptive. It is used in deodorant, antibacterial
soap and other cosmetic and household products. Its deodorant properties
are due to the inhibition of bacterial growth. Triclosan is also bio-accumulative
- it builds up in fatty tissue and can't be broken down properly.
Linked to a range of health and environmental effects: Health - skin
irritation, allergic reactions, antibiotic and bacterial resistance,
can also form the probable human carcinogen chloroform when exposed
to chlorinated water and dioxins may be formed when it is manufactured
or exposed to sunlight and Environmental - commonly found contaminate
in water and found in concentrated levels in fish. Also been shown
to feminize fish. Dioxins, which are linked to cancer. Triclosan is
listed as a pesticide by the US Environmental Protection Agency and
is on Health Canada Cosmetic
Ingredient Hot List.
Antibacterial compounds, like triclosan, provide no additional benefit
beyond those of plain soap. Numerous studies have found that washing
with regular soap and warm water is just as effective at killing germs.
Triethanolamine (TEA)
Commonly used in personal care and cosmetics products to adjust the
pH balance or formulation. Eye and skin irritant. Best suited for
products that do not have prolonged contact with skin, with concentration
not exceeding 5% and that are intended to "rinse off". May
contain nitrosamines, a known carcinogen, as a by-product of manufacturing
and which readily penetrate the skin. See also Diethanolamine (DEA)
and monoethanolamine (MEA).
Broad Ingredient Categories
Antibacterials
Found in cleansers, deodorants and other cosmetic products, antibacterial
agents such as triclosan and triclocarban are designed to kill germs.
Over 75% of liquid and 29% of bar soaps are labeled anti-bacterial.
Anti-bacterial products have been shown to promote the growth of
antibiotic-resistant bacteria in laboratory settings according to
a study in the April 1999 Journal of Biological Chemistry and the
July 13 2000 Nature. This is disputed by the Soap and Detergent Association.
Recent publication in Aquatic Toxicology found triclosan to be harmful
in the development of frogs and potentially humans, where it disrupted
thyroid function in frogs.
The Canadian Paediatric Society called for parents to stop buying
antibacterial products, and instead use soap and water to wash toys,
hands or household items.
Synthetic Colours - FD&C, D&C colours, Coal Tar Colours
A colour additive is any dye, pigment or substance that can impart
colour when added or applied to a food, drug, cosmetic or to the human
body. Used extensively in personal care products, certified FD&C
colours are derived primarily from petroleum and are sometimes known
as "coal-tar dyes" or "synthetic-organic" colours.
They will be labeled as FD&C or D&C, followed by a colour
and a number. Example: FD&C Red No. 6 / D&C Green No. 6. Certifiable
colour additives are used widely because their colouring ability is
more intense than most colours derived from natural products and are
more stable, provide better colour uniformity and blend together easily
to provide a wide range of hues.
Synthetic colours may contain heavy metal salts that may leave toxic
by-products on the skin. They are a contributor to skin irritations
and contact dermatitis. Many synthetic colours are believed to be
cancer-causing agents and have been found to cause cancer in animals
- although these are related to very high concentrations over long
periods of use.
Look for these worrying "coal-tar" dyes: FD&C Blue 1
and FD &C Green 3 are carcinogenic, D&C Red 33, FD&C Yellow
5 and FD&C Yellow 6 impurities have been shown to cause cancer
when applied to the skin. Colour additives that are exempt from certification
are obtained primarily from mineral, plant, or animal sources.
See Colourants 101.
Synthetic Fragrances
Synthetic fragrance is the most common ingredient found in personal
care products. Many synthetic fragrances used in cosmetics can have
as many as 200 ingredients. There is no way to know what the chemicals
are, since on the label it will simply say "Fragrance." Some of the
problems caused by these chemicals are headaches, dizziness, rash,
hyperpigmentation, violent coughing, vomiting, and skin irritation.
Fragrance is a known trigger of asthma. Take a look at our e-bulletin
"Get a whiff of this"
and also see what effects fragrance may
have on our bodies and environment.
Sunscreen Ingredients to AVOID
Sunscreens identify active ingredients to filter UVA and/or UVA radiation:
some use synthetic chemicals to absorb UVA/UVB radiation, some mineral-based
filters to physically block UVA/UVB radiation and others use both.
When considering what ingredients you would most like to avoid in
sunscreen – you need to look at your activities and your preferences
(if your comfortable with chemicals being absorbed into your skin
or lying on top of skin) and what effects some ingredients may have
(known to cause rashes or skin irritation, chemicals that may disrupt
your hormones) Our list of common sunscreen and sun block ingredients
to use with caution:
Avobenzone (also called Parsol 1789)
Effectively blocks long-wave UVA radiation but not UVB. Usually combined
with other sunscreen chemicals to produce a "broad-spectrum"
product. Avobenzone is easily absorbed through the epidermis and is
still a chemical that absorbs ultraviolet radiation energy. Since
it cannot destroy this energy, it has to convert the light energy
into chemical energy, which is normally released as free radicals.
In sunlight, avobenzone degrades and becomes ineffective within about
1 hour.
In January 2007, the FDA approved a new sunscreen called Mexoryl SX,
or ecamsule, for use in the U.S. Hailed by dermatologists as a highly
effective UV-A barrier, the only product in which it is currently
used is L'Oreal's Anthelios SX. However, to make the sunscreen a broad-spectrum
UV-A and UV-B protector, avobenzone was added, which, as previously
stated, may damage DNA.
Benzophenone (benzophenone-3)
Common in chemical sunscreens as it blocks both types of harmful UV
radiation. Reported skin irritation and allergic reactions. "Photo
contact dermatitis is common on areas of the face and neck where sunscreen
has been applied and is most often noticed after UV exposure because
UV light activates the sunscreen,"
Recent research has shown estrogenic activity in lab tests. Scientists
discovered that benzophonones, one of the five of six chemicals commonly
used in chemical sunscreens studied, seemed to mimic estrogen and
recommended more studies to look at possible long-term effects as
a hormone disruptor. The estrogen-like qualities of benzophenone are
of particular concern in light of studies showing that, to a greater
extent than other sunscreen ingredients, benzophenone is readily absorbed
by the skin. Other researchers report "The studies saying that
some of these compounds have estrogenic effects are all very preliminary.
No one has ever linked any sunscreen to any disease related to estrogen
in actual people, so at this point; it's premature to get worried."
Homosalate & Octy-methoxycinnamate (octinoxate)
Common sunscreen ingredients. Concern because they have shown estrogenic
activity in lab tests - disrupting hormones, affecting development
of the brain (particularly the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal system)
and reproductive organs in laboratory rats. Needs more research on
toxic effects.
Padimate-O
A derivative of the once-popular PABA sunscreen ingredient. This one
has mixed research results as far as we can find. Some say Padimate-O
is "excited" by the UV energy which they absorb and become
reactive, acquiring the potential to attack cellular components, including
DNA." These studies to date have been laboratory based and were
not done in living animals or humans. So based on this result – it
has been on noted as a ingredient to use with caution.
But at the same time, it is an ingredient found in some of these
“better” and “best” recommended sunscreens. What's a consumer to do?
We looked at what we are using the product for and for how long and
make an assessment. There are sunscreens that don't have Padimate-O
and other good products that do. Sorry guys - you'll have to choose
for yourself on this one!
See Skin
Deep assessment of Padimate O and a list of sunscreen
spf 15 and above that contain this ingredient.
PABA – (para-aminobenz acid)
Though rarely used now in sunscreens, be aware of products that contain
the ingredient. Forty percent of the population is sensitive to it,
experiencing red, itchy skin.
Titanium dioxide (TiO2)
A common active ingredient in physical sunscreens. TiO2 has shown
phototoxicity - the capability to damage skin upon exposure to light.
Research supports Ti02 use in sunscreen as safe, based on what is
known so far. "Titanium dioxide itself is an effective sunscreen
and does not show phototoxicity in a normal condition as a sunscreen.
A protective action of TiO2 for UV light may be much greater than
its phototoxic effect on human skin." Most titanium dioxide used
in sunscreens is coated with materials that reduce its photoactivity.
Current evidence shows titanium dioxide is much less likely than other
chemical sunscreens to penetrate human skin.
Nanoparticles
Physical sunblocks, made with the minerals titanium dioxide (Ti02)
or zinc oxide (ZO), stay on skin's surface, reflecting UV rays. However,
to make them more aesthetically appealing and less opaque, some newer
products use Ti02 reduced to microscopic nanoparticles .
A nanometer (nm) is about a billionth of a meter-a unit so small that
a single human hair is about 80,000 nm in diameter. The nanoparticles
are unpredictable - they could penetrate the skin, enter the bloodstream,
where they may damage cells. Some tests link Ti02 to DNA damage. The
consensus in the scientific community, as demonstrated by a 2006 Australian
government literature review on the topic, is that neither TiO2 nor
ZO penetrate the skin deep enough to actually enter the bloodstream.
Other
In addition to some of the active UV-protective substances in sunscreen,
there are other ingredients to check your sunscreen for - see our
Ingredients to Avoid list. We know this can be overwhelming - pick
1-2 at a time. For example:
Parabens (butyl-, ethyl-, methyl-, and propyl-)
are preservatives widely used in cosmetic products that might, like
benzophenone, mimic estrogen. Virtually all sunscreens contain parabens,
so avoiding takes some savvy label reading. See Face
it.
Synthetic fragrances are in most sunscreens and
are unregulated and unlabeled, may aggravate allergies or asthma.
See Get a whiff of this.
List of References
Beauty to Die For - The
Cosmetic Consequences, Judi Vance.2000.
The CancerSmart Consumer Guide, Labour
Environmental Alliance Society, 2006.
Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumours, Journal of Applied
Toxicology, 2004.
A Consumer's Dictionary of Cosmetic Ingredients,
Ruth Winter, 2005
Dirty Dozen SSC: The Dirty Dozen Ingredients in Personal Care Products,
The Green Guide. Feb.2004.
The Good, The Bad & The Ugly, The
Green Guide. Feb. 2003
Guide to Less Toxic Products, Environmental
Health Association of Nova Scotia, 2004.
The Safe Shopper's Bible - A Consumer's Guide to Nontoxic Household
Products, Cosmetics and Food, David Steinman & Samuel S. Epstein,
M.D. 1995.
Women
and their Toxic World, Women in Europe for a Common Future, 2006
Contact
Dermatitis: Sometimes It's In Your Face, American Academy of Dermatology,
2004.
Endocrine
(Hormonal) Disrupters in Cosmetics and Toiletries , Prevent Cancer
Coalition, retrieved from website June 20, 2007.
Quote from Dr. Martin Weinstock, M.D., Ph.D., a professor of dermatology
and community health at Brown University in Rhode Island and chair
of the American Cancer Association's skin cancer advisory group
In
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