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Chemicals
 

Chemicals are all around us.  They are in the foods we eat, the containers that hold the foods, the cleaning products we use, the personal hygiene products and cosmetics we use, the clothes we wear, the furniture we use regularly, the carpets we walk upon, the air we breathe, and even the water we use.  It's not hopeless, though, we can take simple steps to avoid the worst chemicals and protect ourselves and our families.
 

Some simple tips for reducing exposures to industrial chemicals are:

Skin absorbs chemicals readily.  In fact, we absorb more chemicals through our skin and through inhaling fumes than through the food we eat.  When we eat food, our body has systems set up to filter the bad, at least somewhat.  Our skin, however, has no detoxification system.  Once absorbed, these chemicals will quickly enter our bloodstream directly.  Take steps to lessen your and your family's exposure to chemicals including what you slather on your body to make you pretty what you use to make your home sparkling clean.

Children are especially susceptible to chemicals.  They are growing and need more food, pound for pound, than adults.  They are picky and may consume only one kind of food for a while (so get more of one chemical or pesticide.)  Their immune systems are not mature yet nor is their detoxification system so they accumulate poisons in their body.  They are growing and use the food (and therefore the chemicals) instead of ridding the body of them.  While the FDA does test chemicals and additives to see if they cause cancer, they do not make any special effects these things may have on growing children.  They do not test how it may accumulate in children.  They do not test the hormonal effects or potential learning disabilities associated with additives.  And then there is the potential problems missed from mixing chemicals by exposure to a variety over a short period of time.

The following is a list of chemicals and the potential harm.  Safe and effective alternatives are available.  The risks are not worth it and there are good alternatives so don't waste another day.  The next time you do laundry, clean your home, use deodorant or other personal care products, choose an environmentally safe alternative like ECOS, Seventh Generation, EO, Aubrey Organics, Bi-O-Kleen, Weleda, or a common household alternative.  Remember that skin is an organ too, the largest one we have. 

 
 

How Does Your Favorite Brand Compare?  Check the site to see which chemicals might be in the products you use or how a particular chemical might be harmful.

 

  
 
  • Acetone act on the central nervous system when inhaled and can cause dizziness, nausea, incoordination, drowsiness, slurred speech, dryness of mouth.  Commonly found in nail polish remover but also can be found in dishwashing liquid, detergent and even perfume and cologne
  
 
  • Aerosols are inherently dangerous.  Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), Hydrochloro-Flourocarbons (HCFCs), and Halons deplete the ozone layer and allow UV radiation to get to earth (potential skin cancer) and have therefore been banned since 1978.  They are also a cardiovascular toxin.  So a note of "no CFCs" on the label is completely meaningless advertising just to make us think it's safe.  Nowadays aerosols use Isobutane Propane and Butane and though they don't destroy the ozone layer, the latest studies indicate that they are toxic to the heart and central nervous system.  Aerosols are inherently dangerous because the very nature pushes tiny droplets into the air and therefore can be easily inhaled into our lungs and absorbed quickly into our bloodstream.  As a rule, aerosols are bad.
  
 
  • Isopropanol, Isopropyl Alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, is used as a disinfectant.  Toxic by ingestion of large quantities (can be fatal), it causes nausea, vomiting, narcosis, mental depression, headaches, and dizziness.   It is a neurotoxin, endocrine, gastrointestinal/liver, kidney skin/senses, cardiovascular/blood system toxin.  It is in many cleaning products but its fumes can irritate the eyes, and respiratory membranes and tract.  Some homemade recipes use Alcohol to disinfect and clean chrome.
  
 
  • Ammonia is listed as a toxic chemical by the EPA.  Commonly found in window cleaners, stain removers, and detergents, ammonia releases nitrogen to the environment when used which damages delicate ecosystem.  It is considered a gastrointestinal toxicant and neurotoxin.  It is also irritating to skin, eyes and respiratory system as well as cause headaches, nausea, coughing and an increase in your rate of breathing.
  
 
  • Amyl Acetate is a a known toxin to the skin, respiratory and central nervous systems.  It is a petroleum-based, synthetic chemical found in furniture polishes, paints, lacquer, and nail polish.
 
 
  • APEs, alkylphenol ethoxylates, are hormone disrupters and don't biodegrade.  They threaten wildlife.  Ethoxylated alcohols in liquid detergents can contain carcinogenic Dioxane.   Children and pregnant women are cautioned against using APEs (alkylpehnol ethoxylates), Octoxynol, and Nonoxynol as they can disrupt normal hormone function.
  
 
  • Artificial Colors and Dyes are petroleum- or coal-based. These may not degrade in the environment and are oftentimes the cause of allergies to cleaning products.  Artificial colors are toxic for aquatic life and animals, and may irritate a person's skin or eyes.  Many are carcinogenic.
  
 
  • Artificial Fragrances and Perfumes are all petroleum-based.  The enter our bodies through our skin contact and by inhaling them.  They may contain phthalates.  Synthetic fragrance is the most frequent cause of allergies from cleaning products and oftentimes the fragrance can be annoying, cause skin and eye irritation, and headaches.  Artificial fragrances are toxic, especially for aquatic life, birds and other animals, who are more sensitive at first to the effects (remember the canary in the coal mine?  Miners knew it was unsafe if the canary died from toxic fumes even while the unfeathered friends (humans) were still working amidst the toxin.)  Many artificial fragrance are known to cause cancer, birth defects, migraines, allergies and other ailments which can lead to Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's, SIDs, and Alzheimer's.  When "artificial fragrance" or sometimes just "fragrance" is listed as an ingredient on a product, pause and wonder.  That word can include hundreds of chemicals!  Most of the research has been on topical effects but perfumes and fragrance were made to be inhaled.  There is little long-term research on the effects of all these chemicals period, even less on the effects of inhaling these chemicals, not to mention the complete and utter lack of any research on their interaction with one another nor on the effects these things can have on our children!

Unfortunately, "unscented" or "fragrance free" may be no better for our health.  Many companies use chemicals to mask odors.  Scent is an important aspect of our lives; it affects our mood and our health.  Pure essential oils can be used instead.  Though they may appear to cost more at first, you need such a small amount and the effects of a pure essential oil over a artificial fragrance are staggering - on our environment and our future, on our overall wellbeing, health and our mood.  Earth Friendly Products, EO, Tropical Traditions and Badger Balm use true fragrance.

  
 
  • Avobenzone or Parasol is a sunblock widely used in Europe and gaining popularity in the U.S.  It protects against long wave UVA rays which go deep into the skin to cause wrinkles, aging, and cancer.
  
 
  • Benzaldehyde is a narcotic and local anesthetic that affects the central nervous system and can irritate the throat, eyes, lungs, mouth, skin, can cause nausea and abdominal pain and even kidney damage.  This is commonly found in dishwasher, laundry and bar soaps, shaving cream, shampoo, perfume, hairspray, and petroleum jelly.
  
 
  • Benzalkonium Chloride is commonly used in Antibacterial soaps.  It is a synthetic disinfectant (bacteriacide and fungicide) and detergent.  It is highly toxic for the cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, liver, and kidney systems.  The use of anti-bacterial agents is causing the emergence of new strains super bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics and will need even stronger chemicals to kill;  antibacterial soaps disrupt the natural flora of our ecosystems.
  
 
  • Benzene, Benzol, Benzole, Annulene, Phenyl Hydride, and Coal Naphtha are known carcinogens (known to cause aplastic anemia) and is on the EPA's Community Right-to-Know list and the Clean Air Act as a hazardous air pollutant. Research has proven that benzene is highly toxic, harmful to the skin, respiratory, cardiovascular, blood, endocrine, and gastrointestinal/liver systems, as well as being a neurotoxin and immunotoxin.  It is made from petroleum and coal and is commonly found in oven cleaners, detergents, furniture polish and spot removers.
  
 
  • Benzophenone, Benzophenone-3, and Oxybenzone is used in many sunscreens to protect us from harmful UV rays.  It is readily absorbed into the skin and can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.  Benzophenone-3 mimics estrogen and is an endocrine disrupter.  Homosalate, Octyl-Methoxicinnamate, Octinoxate, also used in sunscreens, are also endocrine disrupters.  These chemicals are toxic and the ironic thing is that they are even worse when exposed to sun!
  
 
  • Benzyl Alcohol can cause upper respiratory tract irritation, headaches, nausea and vomiting, a depressed central nervous system and a drop in blood pressumer.  Commonly found nail polish remover, air fresheners, bleach, laundry soap and fabric softener, deodorants, soap, and shampoo.
  
 
  • BHA - Butylated Hydroxyanisole is added to many food products (dry goods like cereal especially).  It is a possible human carcinogen according to the National Toxicology Program (part of the Dept of Health & Human Services.)
  
 
  • Bisphenol A is a potential hormone disrupter as it mimics estrogen, like soy.  Commonly used in canned foods as a lining and it is in polycarbonate, # 7 plastic.  It leaches into food more easily when food is heated or fatty.  Most baby bottles are made of polycarbonate.
  
 
  • Brominated Flame Retardants are used in fabrics and plastics to retard fires.  They accumulate in our bodies and may be hormone disrupters.  Nowadays, many children's pajamas are "snug" fitting and/or labeled "not for sleepwear" to avoid added chemicals to our kids while they sleep.  Snug fitting PJs are less likely to catch fire.
  
 
  • Camphor is readily absorbed into the body and can irritate eyes, nose and throat.  It affects the central nervous system and can cause confusion, dizziness, nausea, and even convulsions.  Commonly found in nail polish, fabric softener, dishwasher soap, air fresheners, lip balm, shaving cream as well as perfume.
  
 
  • Carrageenan is a commonly found additive used in processed foods including ice cream, yogurt, cottage cheese.  It comes from red seaweed and is used as an inexpensive thickener and emulsifier.  Recent research indicates it may be a carcinogen and cause gastrointestinal ulcerations but the focus is on degraded cheap carageenan over the more widely used in foods undegraded more expensively produced form.  However, there is still concern even with the undegraded version.
  
 
  • Chlorine Bleach or Sodium Hypochlorite are toxins.  They can react with other chemicals, like ammonia, to damage lungs and the fumes are possible carcinogens.  Once Chlorine gets into our environment, it forms cancer-causing compounds.  Phosphoric Acid, Sodium Hypochlorite, and Sodium Hydroxide can irritate lungs, burn eyes, skin and internal organs (if swallowed).  Chlorine is probably the most widely used toxic chemical.  It is used in clothing, paper products, laundry bleach, cleaners and scouring pads.  It is a "hazardous pollutant" according to the Clean Air Act and is on EPA's Right To Know List.   It is the chemical most involved (tops the list for children) in poisonings, injuries and even death.  Studies show a link between dioxins and cancer as well as reproductive problems, endocrine disruption, and a weakened immune system.  More on Chlorine
  
   
 
  • Butyl Cellosolve, also called among other things, Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether is a synthetic solvent and is readily absorbed into the skin.  Found commonly in abrasive cleansers, sprays, lacquers, varnishes, enamels, and grease cutters, butyl and glycols can damage the central nervous system (is a neurotoxin), irritate eyes, skin, and the mucous membranes, damage bone marrow (blood toxin), and can be toxic to the body systems that are developmental, reproductive, and gastrointestinal. 
 
 
  • DEA, MEA, Cocamide DEA, and TEA can react with nitrites in the air or in other products to form nitrosamines which are carcinogens that are readily absorbed by the skin into our bodies.  These chemicals are endocrine disrupters and may be toxic to our cardiovascular, central nervous, gastrointestinal and kidney systems as well as our skin.  The FDA has asked that these be removed from cosmetics.  Commonly used in detergents, shampoos, dishwashing soaps, bubble baths, and face cleaners for foaming, these are synthetic chemicals made from coconut or animal oil and Diethanolamine, a derivative of Ammonia. 
 
 
  • DEET or N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide is a great mosquito repellant and studies have shown harmful effects.  It is a neurotoxin.  People have had seizures, memory loss, headaches, shaking, dizziness, muscle pain, feeling weak and tired, fatigue, pains in joints, brain changes, and shortness of breath.  Warnings indicate cautions not to use it on children.  Alternatives that include citronella and other essential oils are effective alternatives as well as commercial products like Buzz Away, Anti-Bug Balm.
 
   
 
  • D-Limonene is indeed natural and many think it to be a safer alternative but it can still cause eye, skin, and bronchial irritation.  It can lead to breathing difficulty and can react with other chemicals to irritate lung and hearts.
  
 
  • Dioxane, Diethylene Dioxide, Diethylene Ether, Diethylene Oxide (this is not the same as Dioxin) are possible carcinogens and may also be blood toxins.  May depress the central nervous system and cause necrosis of the liver and kidneys as well as being a skin, lungs and mucous membrane irritant.  Commonly used as a synthetic solvent in window cleaners, lacquers, paints, varnishes, paint and varnish removers, and deodorants, this is on the EPA's Community Right-To-Know list and listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act as a hazardous air pollutant.
  
 
  • Dioxin is a byproduct created when plastics are burned.  It is a carcinogen and builds up in our bodies, in the fatty tissue.  Unfortunately, it is found in many animals too and therefore is in beef and milk.  It resides in the fatty tissue of the cow and therefore is in whole milk much more than skim.  It may affect the hormones and the unborn.  Because of this, pregnant women are cautioned to drink and use only fat free milk products.  This was rather disturbing to me since we are told to give children under 3 whole milk as they need the fat for healthy brain development.  I am trying to find out more information about whether and how much of this is in organic milk and milk from grass-fed dairy cows. 
  • Links:
    • Dioxin, Alliance for Safe Alternatives
  
   
 
  • EDTA and NTA are used like phosphates in detergents and laundry products.  They are known carcinogens.  They are synthetic, come from crude oil, and biodegrade very slowly, if at all.  They accumulate in the environment.  When they finally do degrade, heavy metals can be leached into our food.  NTA is banned in the U.S.
  
 
  • Ethanol can be derived from plants or petroleum.  Commonly used as solvents in many cleaning products, it can be found in perfumes, hairsprays, shampoos, dishwashing, body, and laundry soaps as well as fabric softeners.  It is also in air fresheners, most paints, varnish removers, nail colors and polish removers..  Synthetic ethanol is derived from petroleum and is is carcinogenic; it is toxic to the skin,  respiratory, cardiovascular, developmental, endocrine, neurological, and gastrointestinal systems. 
 
 
  • Ethylene Glycols, Ethylene Dihydrate, Diethylene Glycol and Ethylene Alcohol vapors contribute to ozone pollution and are toxins to the respiratory, skin, developmental, endocrine, reproductive, kidney, gastrointestinal, liver, cardiovascular, blood and central nervous system.  Ethyl Acetate can be found in perfumes and colognes and aftershaves as well as nail polish and remover, fabric softener, and dishwashing liquid.  This is a narcotic and may even cause damage to liver and kidneys.  They are on the EPA's Community Right-To-Know list and listed in the 1990 Clean Air Act as a hazardous air pollutant.  Commonly found in all-purpose cleaners and antifreeze.  Diethylene Glycol is found in window cleaners.

    Glycol Ethers are common and may cause anemia and skin irritation as well as irritate eyes, nose and throat.  Found in personal care products like cosmetics, deodorant, perfumes, and nail polish. 

    Avoid labels with:

    • EGPE
    • EGME
    • EGEE
    • DEGBE
    • PGME
    • DPGME
    • "methyl"
  
 
  • Fatty Acid Alkanol Amide and Amine can react with nitrites in the air or in other products to form nitrosamines which are carcinogens that are readily absorbed by the skin into our bodies.  Commonly found in liquid cleansers, shampoos, conditioners and polishes, these chemicals are  made by combining ethanolamine with a fatty acid which splits off the glycerin.  Fatty acids can be made from synthetic/petroleum (cheapest way so most are made this way), animal, or natural/vegetable oil sources.
  
 
  • Formaldehyde is a KNOWN carcinogen, and can cause irritation to eyes, reproductive, liver, and respiratory system, as well as asthma.  It is toxic if inhaled.  Found in many deodorizers, furniture, building materials, carpets, disinfectants, germicides, adhesives and permanent press clothing.  The World Health Organization has confirmed that it is indeed a carcinogen.  Be aware of products containing:
    • Imidazolidinyl
    • Imadazolidinyl Urea
    • Diazolidinyl Urea
    • Sodium Hydroxymethyl Glycinate
    • Benzylhemifomal

 

  
 

Widely used in personal care products, Parabens act like estrogens and therefore may be able to disrupt normal hormone functioning.

 
 
  • Hydrochloric Acid is used as an antiseptic in toilet bowl cleaners.  It is also used to make phosphoric acid, chlorine dioxide, ammonium chloride, fertilizers, dyes, and artificial silk and pigments for paints.  It is also used in the manufacture of vinyl chloride from acetylene.  In the food industry it is used in the manufacture of sodium glutamate and gelatin, and the conversion of cornstarch to corn syrup, sugar refining, and as a starch modifier.  It is used widely in the photographic, leather, textile, rubber and brewing industries.  Exposure can cause circulatory collapse (death), corneal burns, inflammation, respiratory problems, nausea, diarrhea and a host of other symptoms.  
 
 

 

  
 
  • Kerosene is a synthetic compound distilled from petroleum. Used as a grease cutter, it is found in all-purpose cleaners, degreasers and furniture polishes and is sometimes used directly as a floor/wood cleaner.  Kerosene is a known neurotoxin, dissolving the fatty tissue that surrounds nerve cells. This same defatting action on skin can lead to irritation and infection. As a respiratory toxicant, it damages lung tissues. It is also an endocrine and gastrointestinal/liver toxicant. Ingestion can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Inhalation causes headaches, drowsiness and coma.
  
 
  • Lead, Mercury and Cadmium are heavy metals which are released into the environment and are toxic.  They are a known carcinogen and hormone disrupter.  Toxic to humans and the environment.  Since mercury and lead do not biodegrade, when more of each substance is released into the environment, it continues to accumulate in the food chain; higher accumulations are carcinogenic. 
     
  • Mercury is released when coal is burned, especially with electrical power generation. Mercury is toxic by inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption, and is stored in fat cells of the body forever. It damages bone marrow, the nervous system, kidneys and the liver, the endocrine, cardiovascular, reproductive, developmental and immune system as well.  Mercury comes back to us in our food supply and many fish are contaminated with mercury to levels that make them poisonous to us. 
     
  • Lead is released when silver ore is purified, and when paints containing lead begin to chip and flake.  Commonly found in Lead Acetate which is used in "progressive" hair dyes and cosmetics.  Many candles, especially aromatherapy candles, still contain lead core wicks even though they have been banned since the 1970s.  Lead poisoning is serious business, especially for children.  Lead accumulates in our bones.  The ingestion or inhalation of lead can lead to a lowered intelligence, shorter stature, impaired hearing, and other long-term irreversible neurological developmental issues.  If you suspect your home may have lead paint (built before 1978) then leave it alone if it's not peeling or flaking.  If it is, mop the floors, wipe the ledges and any surface your child can reach (including cribs, if you use one) and wipe the peeling walls with powdered automatic dishwashing detergent and warm water according to the American Lung Association.
     
  • Cadmium is released in a variety of industrial processes and from nickel-cadmium batteries disposed of improperly.   Cadmium is a carcinogen, causes gastroenteritis (food poisoning), and diarrhea.  Believe it or not, some plates and glazes on serving pieces contain lead and cadmium which can leach into food.
  
 
  • Limonene is carcinogenic and should not come in contact with skin nor shall it be inhaled yet it is commonly found in perfume, aftershave and cologne, bleach, bar, laundry and dishwashing soaps, deodorants, nail polish and polish remover, fabric softener, air fresheners, paint and varnish removers.
  
   
 
  • Methanol or Methyl Alcohol can cause you to go blind.  It is toxic if swallowed, inhaled or absorbed.  As a neurotoxin, liver toxin and developmental toxin, it can also cause headaches, fatigue, nausea, convulsions, circulatory collapse, respiratory failure.   It is a petroleum-based product (or may come from wood).  Commonly found in glass cleaners, shellac, industrial processes, and anti-freeze, it tops the list on being the chemical most released into our environment.  Methylene Choride was banned in 1988 yet "trade secret laws" allow it to be used in the fragrance industry even though it is a carcinogen that is readily absorbed by the body and stored in body fat where it metabolizes to carbon monoxide.  This reduced oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and can cause all sorts of problems.
  
 
  • Mineral Spirits are used to cut grease and are commonly found in all-purpose cleaners, degreasers, paint thinners, floor cleaner, and furniture polishes.  This is a synthetic chemical and comes from petroleum.   May be toxic to our endocrine, skin, and central nervous system.
  
 
  • Morpholine is highly toxic if swallowed or inhaled and is readily absorbed by the skin.   Commonly found in all-purpose cleaners, abrasives, waxes, polishes, synthetic optical brighteners for detergents, herbicides, insecticides, fungicides and antiseptic products, it is a synthetic chemical that is It can also irritate the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes.
  
 
  • Naphthalene is a carcinogen (part of the Benzene group) that accumulates in our waters and marine life.  It can be irritating to the skin, alter kidney function, cause cataracts, and is toxic (cardiovascular and developmental), especially to children.  It can be poisonous if swallowed, inhaled or absorbed through the skin.  Commonly found in deodorizers, carpet cleaners, toilet deodorizers, moth bolls (also contain toxic Paradichlorobenzene), and insecticides; it is derived from coal tar or petroleum.
  
 
  • Synthetic Optical Brighteners are toxic to aquatic life; created from petroleum, they do not biodegrade easily.  They can cause allergic reactions in people and mutations in bacteria that inhibit biodegradability. 
 
 
  • PABA, or Para-Amino-Benzoic Acid, was used in many sunscreens but caused skin irritations and allergies.  Padimate-O is a derivative of PABA; some preliminary studies link this with DNA damage which could then lead to cancer.
  
 

  • Parabens are commonly used in personal care products, cosmetics and even some foods.  They act like estrogens and therefore may be able to disrupt normal hormone functioning.   May be linked to breast cancer.  These include:

    • Methylparaben
    • Propylparaben
    • Ethylparaben
    • Butylparaben
    • Isobutylparaben

    Germaben is a combination of methyl-, ethyl-, and butyl-parabens.

    Links: 

 
 
  • Paradichlorobenzene, p-Dichlorobenzene, PDCB is a chlorinated synthetic compound found in mothballs and deodorizers/air fresheners, and insecticidal fumigant. It does not readily biodegrade.  It is a suspected cardiovascular, developmental, gastrointestinal/liver, kidney, neurological, respiratory and skin/sense toxin. Vapors may cause irritation to skin, throat, and eyes. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations may cause dizziness, loss of weight, liver injury.
  
   
 
  • PBDE, Polybrominated Diphenyl Ether, is a flame retardant.  Due to the widespread usage of this toxin, PBDEs have been found in the fat of most animals, including humans.  Low levels can be now found in breastmilk.  However, that is not a reason not to breastfeed - breastmilk is still the best source of nutrients for your baby.  And what you eat goes into your breastmilk so eat well and take simple steps to avoid toxic chemicals.
  
 
  • PCBs, Polychlorinated Biphenyls, is a carcinogen that was banned in 1976 but still exist in our environment as they were used widely prior to that.  They are a nuerotoxic and are hormone-disrupting chemicals.  The FDA considers them "persistent and ubiquitous contaminants in the environment" which means they are abundant and aren't going away any time soon.  They are therefore in our food chain:  they are in meat, milk, eggs, fish, and chicken.  They accumulate in fatty tissue.  PCBs are in our waters.  Smaller fish ingest it.  Larger fish ingest the smaller fish and therefore have a higher build up of PCBs in their system.  The feed given conventional chicken, cows and farmed fish is contaminated with PCBs.  Farmed salmon has far higher levels (7 times higher!) of PCBs in their system than wild salmon. 
 
 
  • PERC - Perchloro-Ehylene is mostly used by dry-cleaning and can cause ill effects on the central nervous system from headaches, fatigue and dizziness to unconsciousness.  It has also been linked to cancer.  Dry cleaners use a toxic solvent that can accumulate in the fatty tissue.  It attaches to the clothes and is then inhaled in to your body and is stored in the fat.  Exposure to the actual liquid can irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat; long-term exposure can cause liver and kidney damage, and memory loss.  There are safer wet cleaners.  As an alternative, there are "wet" cleaners or a carbon dioxide process or a silicone-based solvent.  See this list of Wet Cleaners by Greenpeace or the Professional Wet Cleaners List and please let us know of new ones in the area to share with readers.
  
 
  • Petroleum Petro-Chemicals and Petroleum Distillates are a non-renewable natural resource composed of hydrocarbons (hydrogen and carbon atoms) and is therefore considered “organic”.  Petrochemicals/petroleum distillates, however, are created from the petroleum refining process and do not occur naturally.  Petrochemicals, and their toxic effects remain in the environment for a long time and are often carcinogenic.  People can be allergic to these products.
     
  • Vaseline is a petroleum jelly commonly used in personal care products including lipstick, eye shadow and cold cream.  It is also found in baby lotions and creams.
  
 
  • Phenols are petroleum-based and cause cancer.  They may be endocrine disrupters as well.  Commonly found in laundry detergents, all-purpose cleaners, spot removers, hair dyes, shampoos and conditioners, even just a thimbleful swallowed can cause circulatory collapse or death.  Vapors linger in the home for hours after use so once you're done using a product with phenols, you continue to affect your children and your family with the fumes.  They degrade slowly and toxic chemicals are created in the biodegradation process.  At least one phenol is banned in Europe.
  
 
  • Phosphates leads to death of aquatic life because phosphorus encourages plant and algae growth.  Then the lack of sunshine kills off the overgrowth of algae which overwhelms the ecosystem and depletes the oxygen in the waters.  This in turn suffocates fish and other aquatic life.  These contain phosphorus and are found in laundry and dishwashing soaps to make suds.  Some of these may even contain traces of arsenic.  Banned in many states.
  
 
  • Phosphoric Acid, Mataphosphoric Acid, and Orthophosphoric Acid are listed as toxic chemicals and air pollutants by the EPA and the Clean Air Act.  Commonly used as acids in bathroom cleaners, soaps, and detergents, they are toxic by ingestion or inhalation. They are also irritating to skin, mucous membranes and eyes.
  
 
  • Phthalates, commonly used in fragrance formulas and PVC (so many toys!), are chemicals known to hormone disrupters which means they can harm reproductive and hormonal systems.  Phthalates can be carcinogenic chemical plasticizers, solvents, and fixatives.  They have been linked to birth defects and that's why many advise pregnant women to choose unscented products and skip the perfume altogether.  Phthalates are readily absorbed into our body through our skin and through inhalation.  Unfortunately, not all fragrance ingredients are listed on labels because of "trade secrets" in things like perfumes and other personal products. 

Most artificial fragrances, especially those found in perfumes and fragranced personal care products, contain Phthalates including deodorants, nail polish, hair care, and lotions.  These do not have to be listed on the label since they are considered  trade secrets.  They are merely listed as "fragrance" on the label and can contain hundreds of different chemicals, all of which have not been completely tested (feel like a walking experiment) on adults or children.

Phthalates can be carcinogenic chemical plasticizers, solvents, and fixatives.  They have been linked to birth defects and that's why many advise pregnant women to choose unscented products and skip the perfume altogether.  Children and pregnant women are cautioned against using APEs (alkylpehnol ethoxylates), Octoxynol, and Nonoxynol as they can disrupt normal hormone function.  Diethyl Phthalate (DEP) (commonly found in insecticides, PVC, vinyl, cosmetics, and wood finishes) and Dimethyl Phthalate (DMP) have been linked to premature breast development in eight year old girls.

Truly fragrance-free products are a good alternative as are pure essential oils.  If there is fragrance, unless it is a pure plant-based essence, skip it because it probably has harmful phthalates as part of the fragrance.

  
 
  • a-Pinene damages the immune system and can be found in liquid and bar soaps, perfumes and colognes, shaving creams, deodorants, air fresheners and dishwashing liquid.
  
 
  • Plastics are indeed chemcials that affect our lives (for better and worse) and our environment and wildlife.  Choose #1, 2, 4 and 5 as better options.
  
   
 
  • Polysorbate 80 or Polyoxyetheylene Sorbitan Fatty Esters is used in many shampoos, and in foods like chewing gum.  Derived from Sorbitol, they are used as emulsifiers to hold water and oil suspended together (like a salad dressing) and 80 is used in foods usually together with mono- and diglycerides.  Polysorbate 60, 65 and 80 all appear to be safe.  Polysorbate 20 is used in many cosmetics and cleaning products including many wet wipes.  It is a skin and eye irritant.  Instead, use wipes without it like Mother Nature Wipes. 
 
 
  • Polyurethane is part of the urethane family and is a petrochemical made of plyols.  Commonly found in foam mattresses and sofa cushions as well as insulation in buildings and carpet backing.  It can also be found in rigid foams and coatings (wheels, boots, spandex, floor coating, dashboard liners and laminate panels, for example.)  The manufacture of these chemical causes toxic waste into our water and air.  In addition, after used to create a mattress, for example, neurotoxins continue to "offgas" VOCs for months while we sleep and breathe deeply.  It is considered a probable human carcinogen.  If you're in the market for a new mattress, try a wool (naturally fire retardant) or cotton one instead of foam.  If you have a new foam mattress, air it out for a week or so before sleeping on it, according to the Green Guide.  You can also get a barrier cloth which may help some.  Highly dangerous when it catches fire (and fire retardants, dangerous in and of themselves, are not always effective) with toxic fumes.
  
 
  • PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride or Vinyl is in the most toxic and widely used plastic.  Commonly found in toys, plumbing materials, building materials, medical devices and food containers (including cling wrap, wrappers for food, plastic trays in which food is packaged, as well as baby bottles).  Food containers made of PVC are known to leach phthalates into foods (especially heated or fatty foods).  Linked to birth defects, cancer, a weakened immunity, reproductive problems, it is a endocrine- and neuro-disrupter.  It wreaks havoc our environment in how it is manufactured and is not easily recyclable.  This is the #3 of the plastics and should be avoided.
  
 
  • Preservatives create a longer shelf live.  They can be found in our foods and our personal hygiene products.  Some are quite dangerous.

Be cautious of:

  
 
  • Propylene Glycol, like Ethylene Glycol, inhibits mold and bacterial growth.  It may be toxic to the skin and is a neurotoxin.  It is used in food as an emulsifier.  Many say it is safe in small amounts.
 
 
  • PPD has been banned in Europe.  Commonly used in hair dyes, it is a probable carcinogen and can irritate skin and cause respiratory problems.  Also in products that list dyes as those that are:
 
 
  • Quaternium 15 and Alkyl Ammonium Chloride are potential cardiovascular or blood toxins.  They release formaldehyde and can be found in detergents, deodorizers, deodorants, and disinfectants.
  
 
  • Silica, an abrasive scrubbing agent, is harmful when inhaled.
  
 
  • Sodium Hydroxide (Lye) is a toxic chemical on the EPA’s Community Right-to-Know list, and is a substance controlled by OSHA.  It is extremely corrosive and can irritate the eyes (it can cause blindness), skin, mucous membranes, mouth, throat, esophagus and stomach tissues.  Also known as Caustic Soda or White Caustic, it is commonly found in oven cleaners and drain cleaners. 
 
 

 

  
 
  • SLES - Sodium Lauryl Ether Sulfate or SLS - Sodium Laureth Sulfate may be the most commonly used dangerous ingredient.  It is an inexpensive emulsifier which helps create the foam in many cleaners from shampoo, cosmetic cleansers, bath and shower gels, bubble bath to floor cleaners, car wash soap, and even engine degreasers.  Most reports indicate that it is safe in small amounts, but the problem is that it is in EVERYTHING and it accumulates in our body; and it is NOT in small amounts. 

    It is highly corrosive.  It has even been linked to hair loss since it is so corrosive and attacks the hair follicle.  It eats at the skin and can be quite an irritant; it can cause rashes.  It strips off protective skin lipids.  There is also a risk of forming nitrosamines as it interacts with other chemicals.  It may be a strong carcinogen when contaminated with nitrosamines and is readily absorbed through the skin (when combined with TEA, DEA or MEA).  The Journal of American College of Toxicology has determined that it damages the immune system.  It is also a mutagen, according to the Tohoku School of Medicine in Japan, and as such can change our cell's genetic information.

Be cautious of other -eth compounds as well.

However, many reports appear to be unsubstantiated with regard to an alleged University of Georgia Medical College report that concluded that SLS actually penetrates into the eyes, brain, heart, liver and accumulated in tissues over a few days (they said that even one drop will stay in the brain a few days).  Especially sensitive to children where it got into their eyes and stopped them from permanently developing properly and actually is linked to cataract development once they became adults.  SLS has indeed been used for a long time and the following feel that there is no justification in this concern:

I think it's clear that it is a harsh chemical and a corrosive irritant; that is undisputed.  I also think it's clear that it forms carcinogenic nitrosamines when combined with other chemicals.  And there are safe, gentle and effective alternatives like EO, Kiss My Face, Aubrey's Organics.

  
 
  • Sodium Polyacrylate is that gel (also known as super-Absorbent Gel Material or AGM and Super Absorbent Polymer or SAP) used in disposable diapers.  Bad for the environment and conflicting reports on whether it is harmful to our wee ones.  Tiny Tots indicated that it has been linked to an increase in childhood asthma and a decreased sperm count in boys.  That might be more due to the fact that disposables are worn more tightly causing and elevation in the temperature of the scrotal which does contribute to a declined sperm count.  Removed from tampons due to the link with toxic shock syndrome in 1985, it is still used in diapers and feminine napkins.  There are alternatives like Tushies brand or brands with less SAP (and they do work even with 1/2 less!) than the leading diaper brands.
  
 
  • Sulfates can trigger asthma attacks and are corrosive.  Sodium Acid Sulfate is used in some toilet bowl cleaners
  
 
  • Sulfites include Sulfur Dioxide, Sodium Sulfite, Sodium Bisulfite, Potassium Bisulfite, Sodium Metabisulfite, and Potassium Metabisulfite - these are added to food and can cause allergies or may be carcinogenic.
  
 
  • Synthetic surfactants are petroleum-based and deplete the natural resources and may also contain impurities that are harmful to our environment and our bodies.
  
 
  • g-Terpinene attacks the central nervous system and can cause asthma.  Commonly found in deodorant, air fresheners, soaps, and perfumes.  a-Terpineol is in many of these same products and also detergents, powder bleaches and fabric softeners, hairsprays and aftershave.  This chemical is "highly irritating to mucous membranes" and can be quite damaging to lungs.
  
   
 
  • Titanium Dioxide and Zinc Oxide are used in Sunblocks as opposed to sunscreens.  Some preliminary studies link these with DNA damage which may lead to cancer.  These studies were not done on animals or humans so the jury is still out.  Since these lie on top of the skin instead of being absorbed by the skin and block, actually reflect, the sun's rays, and are not absorbed by the body like other sunscreen chemicals, they are probably the safer alternative.  Although, now they are making this in tiny nano-particles, something completely unnatural, and these tiny particles may be absorbed by the skin.  There are indications that these are also getting into our environment and causing trouble to our wildlife.