Toxic Beauty

Many of us are diligent about avoiding toxic household products, but perhaps do not realize that products we use on our skin have the potential of being absorbed into our body and may affect our health. USA Today reported on a University of California, Berkeley study that tested thirty-two commonly sold lipsticks and found that they contained lead, cadmium, chromium, aluminum, and five other metals. Cadmium is a known carcinogen. 

But impurities in lipsticks are not our only concern. Medical Daily reports on research showing that chemicals in some cosmetics and plastic may be causing early menopause. Early menopause increases risk factors for cardiovascular disease and bone loss. Some of the chemicals in question are phthalates. 

The National Institute of Environmental Health tells us that endocrine disrupters such as BPA are chemicals that may interfere with the body’s hormones and produce a variety of health problems. 

According to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention adult women have higher levels of urinary metabolites from phthalates such as those found in soaps, body washes, shampoos, cosmetics, and similar personal care products.