The Hidden Cost of Clean
- FOKUS
- Sep 10, 2024
- 3 min read
Chemicals to Avoid in Personal Care Items
Most of us start and end our day with them – soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and body washes. These products promise cleanliness, nourishment, and even relaxation. However, beneath their fragrant and colourful exteriors, many commercial bath products hide a concerning truth: they can contain harmful chemicals. In this blog post, we'll delve into some of these chemicals, their potential impacts, and how to make safer choices.
1. Parabens: What Are They?
Parabens are preservatives used to prevent bacteria from growing in products. According to the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), parabens like butylparaben are considered safe at concentrations up to 0.14% in cosmetics. However, some people prefer to avoid them due to concerns about their potential hormone-like activity, they mimic oestrogen and can disrupt the endocrine system. Although generally deemed safe for most, certain groups, such as children, are subject to more caution. There are also concerns about their potential role in breast cancer development and reproductive issues, which is why many opt for natural alternatives like those found in FOKUS soaps.
2. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS): The Foaming Culprit
SLS is a common ingredient that makes soap lather but may also cause skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals. Dermatologists have found that SLS strips away natural oils, leaving skin dry and irritated. Natural soaps avoid SLS, creating a gentler cleanse. Additionally, SLES is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a substance known to be potentially carcinogenic.
3. Synthetic Fragrances: More Than Meets the Nose
The term “fragrance” can hide a cocktail of chemicals. These undisclosed ingredients can cause allergies, dermatitis and respiratory issues. Additionally, Synthetic fragrances often contain phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption. Many natural soaps, including ours at FOKUS, opt for essential oils, giving you fragrance without the risk of harmful additives.
4. Triclosan: The Disappearing Antibacterial
Triclosan, once used in antibacterial soaps, has been restricted in Europe due to concerns over antimicrobial resistance and environmental harm. Research from the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has raised concerns regarding its endocrine-disrupting properties. While it is safe in limited concentrations in some products (e.g., 0.3% in toothpaste and 0.2% in mouthwash), the SCCS concluded that it may not be safe for children under certain conditions, particularly due to potential environmental and health risks, including effects on hormone regulation.
5. Formaldehyde Releasers: Hidden Preservatives
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, particularly when inhaled, and has been linked to nasal cavity cancers in laboratory animals exposed to high concentrations. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and IARC, it is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen. Although formaldehyde exposure through ingestion is not considered carcinogenic, it can still cause irritation in tissues of first contact. Many consumers prefer to avoid formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, which are still found in some commercial soaps
Conclusion
By choosing natural soaps like those from FOKUS, you are making a conscious decision to avoid harmful chemicals often found in commercial alternatives. Ingredients such as parabens, SLS, synthetic fragrances, triclosan, and formaldehyde releasers have raised concerns due to their potential effects on human health and the environment. FOKUS products prioritize natural, gentle, and sustainable ingredients that are both safe for your skin and better for the planet. Making the switch to natural soap isn’t just about better skincare—it’s about aligning with eco-friendly, health-conscious practices.
