"That transparency is important. Look at what's inside products and seek out those that contain natural, plant-based ingredients - from toothpaste to cosmetics." - Sophie Heyman Uliano
Introduction | Meaning | Natural vs Synthetic | Chemicals | How To Choose? | Household Items | Final Thoughts | Takeaway Points | References | Disclaimer
Introduction
Over the last two centuries, there has been a huge change in our approach to life and in how innovation, technology, and large-scale industries have impacted the way we think about our role in nature. We have become accustomed to living in crowded, urbanized, and polluted areas. Europe and both Americas have over 70% of their population living in cities. Asia and Africa are soon to catch up with this trend[1]. The living conditions in such an environment put us at risk of being exposed to a high level of toxins and toxicants. Nature has equipped the human body with detoxification mechanisms to process some of these harmful substances; however, the capacity at which our system can perform them is also limited. In the western world, the leading cause of death is attributed to a phenomenon called the "diseases of civilization," which includes such conditions as obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, asthma, and many more. They are usually a result of our lifestyle choices, the environment we live in, and certain habits we develop over the years that don't serve our health. On top of that, the shelves of our cupboards, pantries, and bathrooms are filled with chemical products manufactured for our convenience that not only harm our health but also negatively influence the ecological balance of the environment.
What does 'natural' in a product description mean?
The definition of what constitutes a natural product is quite straightforward. Natural is any compound, item, or substance that is generated or obtained from a living organism found in nature.
"The term natural product has been extended to commercial purposes like cosmetics, dietary supplements and food produced without any artificial ingredient."[2]
Natural, however, does not mean the same thing as organic. Products we see in shops can be either natural or organic. Organic products are worth considering if you want to take that extra step closer to nature. Ingredients and products obtained from organic cultivation are low in toxins but higher in price, which is an important factor for many consumers. Going with either of the two options will improve the quality of your environment and positively impact your health.
Natural products vs synthetic products
The discussion of what products are better for us and our health comes down to their list of ingredients and the potential toxicity these ingredients carry. However, there shouldn't be any ambiguity about the fact that the manufacturers use ingredients generally regarded as safe that have received local authority approval. However, we need to remember that many of the items we use penetrate through our skin and travel with our blood to all parts of our bodies. The choice of ingredients may decide what molecules end up in our system, how they are metabolized, and what potential side effects they may have upon buildup. The label 'natural' sounds much more comforting and safer than 'synthetic'. Natural ingredients usually list the recognizable names of various plant extracts and plant constituents. Synthetic compounds, on the other hand, tend to have long chemical names that can be unclear for the average consumer. Manufacturers of natural cosmetics, skin care products, hair products, or cleaning supplies tend to highlight this word on their packaging. Those companies that manufacture conventional items never label them synthetic or chemical because of the ideas these words invoke in people. Even though more and more users read the ingredient lists on the products [32% of American women always check the ingredients and 43% do it sometimes[3]], the confusion about how to understand the terms used to describe them makes it difficult to judge the safety of the item.
What chemicals to watch out for when buying a product?
The list of problematic ingredients we can find in the products we use on an everyday basis could be long. Especially if we consider how wide the variety of items we use regularly is. On average, most people use skin and body care products, hair care products, household cleaning supplies, and makeup. Additionally, a wide range of foods, mainly processed foods, contain ingredients that you should try to avoid. Our household items, such as furniture, carpets, floors, and electronic equipment, all contain substances that can hurt our health. Each of these categories of items contributes to a large percentage of the pollutants and toxins we are exposed to every day. Fortunately, we have the power to change that and replace all of these with healthier options. The list below shows the most common chemicals found in every item group to watch out for.
parabens[4] - substances that serve to preserve cosmetics and prevent bacteria, fungus, and mold development. They are known as endocrine disruptors. To this group belong: utylparaben, ethylparaben, isobutylparaben, methylparaben, or propylparaben.
formaldehyde, paraformaldehyde, and formaldehyde-releasing agents[5], [6] - toxic elements that serve the preservation of the product and prevent bacterial, fungal, and mold development. To the formaldehyde-releasing ingredients belong imidazolidinyl urea, Diazolidinyl urea, DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, quaternium-18, quaternium-26, BHUT (butylated hydroxytoluene), bronopol, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, and methenamine.
phthalates[7] - very often listed as fragrances. Phthalates are hormone disruptors and can promote cancer development. Usually listed as DEP, DBP, DEHP, and fragrance.
synthetic colors [8] - can cause skin irritations, clogged pores, and acne, and those made from 'coal tar' are carcinogens. Artificial dies are listed as: colorants, FD&C Blue No. 1 [E131], FD&C Blue No. 2 [E131], FD&C Green No. 3, FD&C Red No. 3 [E127], FD&C Yellow No. 5 [E102], FD&C Yellow No. 6 [E110], FD&C Copper complexes of chlorophyll [E141], and FD&C Green S [E142].
alcohol[9] - it can damage the natural skin barrier that protects it from pathogens. Alcohols used in skincare are listed as SD alcohol, isopropyl, methanol, ethanol, and denatured ethyl alcohol.
endocrine disruptors[10] - cause menstrual problems, birth defects, and skin health issues and can result in cancer. To this group belong dibutyl, diethylhexyl phthalates, parabens, triclosan, PFAS, oxybenzone [in sunscreens], benzophenones, and bisphenols.
PFAS [the long-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances][11] - is linked with reproductive, immunological, and developmental issues. They impact kidney and liver health. They are used to create a smooth and shiny skin effect and to extend the shelf life of the product. They are usually listed as TFE (polytetrafluoroethylene), perfluorooctyl triethoxysilane, perfluorononyl dimethicone, perfluorodecalin, and perfluorohexane.
triclosan[12] - is a neurotoxin [banned in many countries] that possesses antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. It causes reproductive issues and can lead to cancer. It appears on labels as triclosan and triclocarban.
fragrance/perfume[13] - it is a general term used by many manufacturers to hide different substances that add scent to the product. Since the substance is not listed under its name, it is hard to predict what kind of side effects it will cause. Some of the potential side effects are skin irritations, allergies, and hormonal imbalances.
parabens,
sodium lauryl sulfate [SLS][14] - is a chemical used as a cleaning agent. It causes hormone imbalances, scalp irritations, and dryness. It is usually listed as sodium lauryl sulfate [SLS], sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), laureth sulfate, sodium alkylethersulfate, ammonium lauryl sulfate, sulfuric acid monododecyl ester sodium salt, sodium dodecyl sulfate, sodium lauryl sulfate ether, and sodium n-dodecyl sulfate.
formaldehyde, paraformaldehyde, and formaldehyde-releasing agents,
propylene glycol[15] - is a harsh chemical that makes the hair look shiny and smooth. It can cause scalp irritation, damage the structure of the hair, and result in hair loss. Usually listed as propylene glycol, 1,2-dihydroxypropane, 1,2-propanediol, methyl glycol, and trimethyl glycol.
diethanolamine [DEA] and triethanolamine [TEA][16],[17] - DEA and TEA are used by hair care brand manufacturers to manipulate the pH levels of their products. Both DEA and TEA are acidic substances, and they are added to alkaline formulations to bring their pH to a neutral level. DEA and TEA deprive hair of their natural oils, damage the hair structure, and result in hair loss. They appear on the labels as triethanolamine, diethanolamine, DEA, TEA, cocamide DEA, DEA-cetyl phosphate, DEA-oleth-3 phosphate, lauramide DEA, myristamide DEA, oleamide DEA, and TEA-lauryl sulfate.
phthalates,
isopropyl alcohol[18] - used as a thickening agent in hair care products. It causes dryness and irritates the scalp. This ingredient is usually listed as isopropyl alcohol, 2-propanol, or isopropanol.
triclosan,
fragrance/perfume.
phtalates,
formaldehyde, paraformaldehyde, and formaldehyde-releasing agents
lead and other heavy metals[19] - neither lead nor other heavy metals found in makeup products are labeled as ingredients. They are contaminants that appear especially in lipsticks, eyeliners, and items using kohl as an ingredient.
polyethylene glycols [PEGs][20] - are petroleum-based compounds that serve as thickeners, moisturizing agents, softeners, and solvents. They can carry contaminants such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, which are linked with increased cancer risk. Additionally, PEGs cause systemic toxicity and skin irritations and can be toxic to our genes. They are usually listed as PEG, followed by a number such as PEG-40, PEG-20 cocamine, etc.
parabens,
butylated compounds [BHT, BHA][21],[22] - BHT and BHA are synthetic antioxidants and preservatives. BHA is a carcinogen and endocrine disruptor, whereas BHT is a toxic substance that can contribute to cancer development and cause various organ complications. Their listing tends to be hidden under fragrance/perfume ingredients.
PFAS [the long-chain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances],
talc[23] - talc is a powder used in cosmetics to give them a silky finish and absorb excess moisture. Talc can cause clogged pores in some people, but the main concern attributed to its use is the contamination with asbestos. Asbestos is a known carcinogen.
coal tar dies[24] - coal tar dies are petroleum-derived substances that are used as colorants in many cosmetics. Coal tar is recognized as a carcinogen and tends to be contaminated with heavy metals. Coal tar dies can be identified on the labels by their prefixes ["C.I."; in the USA: “FD&C” or "D&C"], which are followed by a number.
fragrance/perfume.
phthalates,
PERC [perchloroethylene][25] - PERC is a neurotoxin and a possible carcinogen. It is known to cause dizziness and poor coordination and could promote cancer development. Listed under such names as tetrachloroethene, perchloroethylene, perc, PERC, and PCE.
ammonia[26] - ammonia is a compound of nitrogen and hydrogen. It evaporates easily, leaves no streaks, and is colorless. Ammonia is a strong irritant, especially dangerous for people suffering from asthma and other respiratory conditions. It is usually listed under its name.
triclosan,
sodium hydroxide[27] - is a corrosive substance that can cause severe burns if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It is listed as: caustic soda, lye, and sodium hydroxide
chlorine[27], [28] - is a chemical known to cause respiratory tract irritations of both acute and chronic nature. Additionally, prolonged exposure to chlorine can lead to an endocrine imbalance. Usually listed under its name.
QUATs [quaternary ammonium compounds][29] - Quats are compounds that have antibacterial and antifungal properties. The use of products with strong antimicrobial characteristics can cause the emergence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Furthermore, quats are strong irritants that are dangerous for our skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Can be listed as benzalkonium chlorides, with names ending in ammonium chloride: alkyl dimethyl benzyl ammonium chloride (ADBAC), dodecyl didecyl dimethyl ammonium chloride (DDAC), hexadecyltrimethylammonium (‘cetrimide’), and others.
2-Butoxyethanol[30] - is an organic compound that is known for its sweet, ether-like smell. It is used as a solvent in many household products. It is irritating to the respiratory tract and can be toxic to the liver and kidneys. It can be listed under many names: ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol butyl ether, butyl cellosolve, ethylene glycol n-butyl ether, butyl oxitol, dowanol EB, glycol butyl ether, polysolv, and ektasolve EB. Additionally, it can be found under its abbreviated names, such as EGBE and BE. Furthermore, it can appear in its acetate form under butoxyethanol acetate, butoxyethyl acetate, butyl glycol acetate, ethylene glycol butyl ether acetate, acetic acid 2-butoxyethyl ester, glycol monobutyl ether acetate, butyl cellosolve acetate, or Ektasolve EB acetate. Its abbreviations include BEA and EGBEA.
Toxic Elements in Household Items
phthalates found in vinyl floors and bedding,
volatile organic compounds [VOC][31] including formaldehyde in dry-cleaned clothes, paints, new furniture, new carpets, aerosol sprays, air fresheners, candles, new shower curtains,
lead[32], bisphenol A [BPA], and bisphenol S [BPS][33] in children's toys and other plastic items,
aldicarb[34], parathion[35] and azo dyes[36] in bedding and mattresses,
pesticides[37] and insecticides[38] used to kill weeds and insects around the house.
nonstick cookware[39] coated with Teflon [polytetrafluoroethylene [PTFE]],
perfluorinated chemicals [PFCs][40] in nonstick pan coating and stain-resistant coating used in carpets, clothes, and furniture,
When we look at the number of possible toxins and toxicants we are exposed to in our house, it can become very overwhelming and worrisome. It is true that many of these substances are found in our households in small amounts. However, if we continue to layer them and allow them to accumulate in our system over the course of our lives, we might suffer negative effects. Let's consider one substance from the list presented above, such as formaldehyde. It appears in almost all categories of items. It is prevalent in many products that we use on an everyday basis. Bioaccumulation of this chemical agent may leave a mark on our health. Even if we don't experience any noticeable side effects, on a molecular level, the damage might already be happening. Such an approach, combined with many unhelpful lifestyle habits, may lead to undesirable health complications and unnecessary suffering.
How do I choose the right products?
Start by reading the labels of the items that you already have. Identify those substances that you want to eliminate and look for alternatives. The variety of natural and often organic products is really big. There is a lot to choose from. When you find something you have been looking for, read its label. Do not skip this step only because the product is marketed as natural or organic. If this item lists ingredients you are unfamiliar with, find out more about them. Educating yourself on what is good and what is potentially harmful to your health is a key element. After some time, you will notice that your knowledge of ingredients has improved, and choosing the right products will become easier.
How do I deal with household items?
Cosmetics, body care, and cleaning supplies are easily replaceable. The bigger challenge is how to tackle those big items in our house, like furniture or carpets, that also carry some toxic substances.
Carpets
Carpets and rugs are known to emit VOCs. To reduce our exposure to them, look for options that use natural materials and natural dyes and check their safety labels [e.g., Green Label Plus].
Mattresses and upholstered furniture
These items are known to be high in PFCs. Learn more and find a manufacturer that uses natural, toxin-free materials and has an eco-friendly label.
Wood items, including furniture
Items made from wood emit VOCs and formaldehyde, which are used as part of the glue that keeps the pieces together. Now, this is a difficult one. It might not be easy to find a manufacturer that uses toxin-free glues and other materials. However, there are substances available on the market that can contain the emission of VOCs from wooden surfaces. One such product is the AFM Safecoat Safe Seal.
If you buy a new item for your home, remember to check what possible toxins you might be bringing into your house. Choose products that will help you keep your indoor environment as toxin-free as possible. For most of us, nonetheless, it is impossible to exchange all of our furniture and carpeting for healthier options. In such a situation, we can make use of better air filtration in our homes. Ventilate your rooms well, use air purifiers, and install air-purifying plants. Next to that, switch to natural cleaning supplies and vacuum your carpets and rugs frequently. Preferably, use vacuum cleaners equipped with HEPA filters to extract as many particles as possible.
Final Thoughts
According to the World Health Organization's constitution[41]:
"health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity."
It is determined by such factors as the socioeconomic and physical environment and a person's behavior. Lifestyle choices, habits, and the environment that we create for ourselves affect our health and our ability to remain healthy as we age. Taking responsibility for how we live and how we treat our bodies and minds brings us another step closer to finding the proper balance in a world that has become so dependent on manufactured, artificial, and highly processed goods. Our wellness can greatly benefit from reducing our exposure to toxic substances.
Takeaway Points
Natural products are generated or obtained from a living organism found in nature.
Natural and organic are not exchangeable terms.
Natural products contain fewer toxins and harmful chemicals.
Reading ingredients' labels is key to proper product choice.
Our household environment tends to be filled with toxic elements.
The accumulation of toxins in our body can lead to disease.
References
This article contains 41 citations:
Disclaimer
Read carefully: