10 Facts About Cosmetics
1. Whilst it is unlikely that any one product can cause excessive harm, a US survey found that the average adult uses around 9 personal care products daily - from soap to sunscreen. This exposes the average consumer to around 126 harmful chemicals every day.
2. Coal tar is a dangerous human carcinogen. Ironically it is still used in cosmetic products designed to control itching and eczema, and usually used with penetration enhancers - ingredients that may increase the absorption of coal tar through the skin into the blood vessels below - such as hair dyes and shampoos. Industrial safety standards for cold tar, also warns users of its ability to cause genetic damage and infertility.
3. In 1960 there were about 200 Coal-tar colours derived from petroleum on the American market, but because so many were found to be carcinogenic; such as Red No.2, they have subsequently been banned. Today the list of approved colours in westernised countries still numbers about 45.
4. The EWG Skin Deep Report reports that ...women who used permanent hair dyes at least once a month experienced a 2.1-fold risk of bladder cancer relative to non-users... It is estimated that 19% of bladder cancers in women in Los Angeles County, California, may be attributed to permanent hair-dye use.
5. The Skin Deep study also found that of the 10,500 chemical ingredients used in personal care products, just 11 percent were safety assessed — and the assessments were not conducted by government officials, but by a panel funded by manufacturers. Federal laws in America and Australia do not prohibit the use of carcinogens in cosmetics.
6. There is still much to learn as record sales of anti-wrinkle dream-creams and face peeling products continue to revolutionise global markets. The Skin Deep study found that skin cancer in some form, is among the most prevalent form of cancer on the rise in America today. It also found that Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) increase the skins sensitivity to UV rays, elevating the chance of skin cancer by 18 percent.
7. During the study, UV-induced cellular damage doubled amongst trial volunteers who used AHAs and BHAs. Overall, the life-time cancer risk for western women has rocketed from one in 9,000 at the beginning of industrialisation, to a level of one in three at the start of the 21st Century.
8. Synthetic Preservatives such as Methyl-, Propyl-, Butyl- and Ethyl- Paraben’s. Highly Toxic. They are estrogenic substances which disrupt normal hormone functions and exposure can elevate the risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer as a result of inclusion in deodorants.
9. When they opened the tomb of Queen Cleopatra (1890) they found several large pots of honey. The honey was the only organic substance in the chamber that had not gone bad. It is now known that honey formed part of the fluid used by the Egyptian alchemists to embalm the Pharaohs and their Queens.
10. Four natural Preservatives are :
• Tea Tree Essential Oil
• Thyme Essential Oil
• Grapefruit Seed Extract
• Bitter Orange Extract
2. Coal tar is a dangerous human carcinogen. Ironically it is still used in cosmetic products designed to control itching and eczema, and usually used with penetration enhancers - ingredients that may increase the absorption of coal tar through the skin into the blood vessels below - such as hair dyes and shampoos. Industrial safety standards for cold tar, also warns users of its ability to cause genetic damage and infertility.
3. In 1960 there were about 200 Coal-tar colours derived from petroleum on the American market, but because so many were found to be carcinogenic; such as Red No.2, they have subsequently been banned. Today the list of approved colours in westernised countries still numbers about 45.
4. The EWG Skin Deep Report reports that ...women who used permanent hair dyes at least once a month experienced a 2.1-fold risk of bladder cancer relative to non-users... It is estimated that 19% of bladder cancers in women in Los Angeles County, California, may be attributed to permanent hair-dye use.
5. The Skin Deep study also found that of the 10,500 chemical ingredients used in personal care products, just 11 percent were safety assessed — and the assessments were not conducted by government officials, but by a panel funded by manufacturers. Federal laws in America and Australia do not prohibit the use of carcinogens in cosmetics.
6. There is still much to learn as record sales of anti-wrinkle dream-creams and face peeling products continue to revolutionise global markets. The Skin Deep study found that skin cancer in some form, is among the most prevalent form of cancer on the rise in America today. It also found that Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) and Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) increase the skins sensitivity to UV rays, elevating the chance of skin cancer by 18 percent.
7. During the study, UV-induced cellular damage doubled amongst trial volunteers who used AHAs and BHAs. Overall, the life-time cancer risk for western women has rocketed from one in 9,000 at the beginning of industrialisation, to a level of one in three at the start of the 21st Century.
8. Synthetic Preservatives such as Methyl-, Propyl-, Butyl- and Ethyl- Paraben’s. Highly Toxic. They are estrogenic substances which disrupt normal hormone functions and exposure can elevate the risk of cancer, particularly breast cancer as a result of inclusion in deodorants.
9. When they opened the tomb of Queen Cleopatra (1890) they found several large pots of honey. The honey was the only organic substance in the chamber that had not gone bad. It is now known that honey formed part of the fluid used by the Egyptian alchemists to embalm the Pharaohs and their Queens.
10. Four natural Preservatives are :
• Tea Tree Essential Oil
• Thyme Essential Oil
• Grapefruit Seed Extract
• Bitter Orange Extract
Photography Tips
Health Focus
Poetry Lighthouse
MS Paint Art
You certainly are a warrior, peace, sister, peace!
So we're up and running and that kick off is pretty essential, irrespective of the essential oils.
Luvs ya,
katyzzz
Falling Haiku Leaf
Great post. I'm always suspicious of what goes into cosmetics, even though I only really wear lipstick (and the odd bit of kohl).
One researcher in Australia has made some groundbreaking developments in the effects of honey as a treatment for skin cancer.
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Yes we are and it feels good...
I rest in my work and meditations... I just look busy, but once it gets going, it really writes itself... However, that is all for a few days on this one, that's for sure... plenty to read and learn whilst I look at weird weather patterns and El Nino cycles... some interesting links there to to the Mayan 2012 calender and prophesy...
I'll see you tomorrow in your 'cyber-gallery'... for morning-Tea ... look forward to it...
and I'm going to have a go at some MS painting too... God help us all!
Lilla....
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Yes, if you can get to look at the Skin Deep link it's amazing... I'm with you and wear very little, if any makeup, never really have.
I was reading about Cancer Cure using New Zealand Honey – something special in it – so interesting…finally all these old known cures and remedies can resurface now that the dark ages have past… So much women’s earth wisdom lost, so much to remember and redeem…
Some good wisdom on Medicinal Nature if you get a chance...
Lilla…
Learning Something Everyday
Malaysia Found
Great post once again!
But I am kind of lost with natural preservatives section. So, is it considered safe to use?
I only use toner to and cleanser to wash my face (besides shampoo and body shower) and I too hardly put on any makeup.
The last time I really do use lotion was when I was still in Toowoomba and I had to use it as my skin was cracking... once I am in the humid tropical country I do not need those to put on, but more to remove all the dirt from haze and smoke.
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Lovely to 'see' you again...
A natural olive oil soap and water will remove the dirt, haze and pollution from your face without drying it and Natural Witchazel is a perfect toner. You can buy it eu-natural from the chemist. It will tighten your pores in no time. Try some cucumber on your eyes and mushed avocado on your face once a week for a nice healthy face pak.
If your diet is good *wink wink* and you drink lots of water, your skin should be radiant anyway... as I'm sure it is. Too much coffee and other chemicals can make it look pale and "grey.'
Sleep is another good thing too. I'm a strong advocate of early to bed early to rise makes a person health, welathy and wise. I cannot stay up later than about 10.30pm anymore even if I try!
I'm coming over for another one of those delicious recipe's of yours, I'll talk to you about the last one over at your place.
I'm bushed and heading off...
Good night.
Lilla...
Medicinal Nature
20/20 Filmsight
Science News
Hunt Famous
Orble Post of the Day
Fat Cult
Techbreak
I flipped it over, and there's the longest list of chemical freak-out agents I've seen. At the bottom, oat milk and almond oil.
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Yes, thanks... you could dedicate a whole blog to the miracle of Honey!
It's nice to see that what was once all considered "New Age" is now making it's way back into "Mainstream." Eventually I hope that the manufacturers will also realise that they don't have to put all those chemical additives in for us to buy their products. One can hope.
What's wrong with the smells and colours in nature?
Love your blog...
Lilla...
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
God bless you, your comment made all my work worthwhile!
It is really scary when you know what's whot, I agree...
Lilla...
Learning Something Everyday
Malaysia Found
Thank you so much for the tip. I will try and find anything here (since I have moved out from Aussie... sob).
Perhaps those organic shops might have them... but toner... it is kind of hard to search for it though...
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
I'm sorry to hear that. Are you not near a city...?
Witchazel is brewed from a plant. You can find some and make a tea with it, but instead of drinking it, use it on your face. I don't know if it is poisonous or not to drink, but I wouldn't. You could ask Manda at Natural Medicine.
Maybe a friend could send you some, although I think it can spoil quickly in the heat...?
Good Luck
Lilla...
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
I will have a visit to your site soon, I am interested in your words on multiculturalism and different ways of life....
Lilla...
Medicinal Nature
Witch Hazel is a great toner. But if you would prefer to make some with items in your own kitchen, then I suggest a great couple that I use.
~In a bowl combine Lemon Juice (half or whole lemon), pour in one cup of warm water, and strain to rid the mixture of pulp and seeds... it is a great toner to reduce age and sun spots on the skin.
~Green tea is another great source. Steep one cup of green tea until it is dark. Add one cup of fresh water and let it cool. This is great for all skin types and is very refreshing for the pores.
I hope this helps.
Medicinal Nature
You're a sweet heart!
Medicinal Nature
My new post is ready to view, however I do not think I did the photo attachment right... oops.
Motherhood
Hi Lilla,
Scary, scary stuff. Thank you for opening my eyes! And lightening my bathroom cupboard!
K.L.
Rugby World Cup 2007
I'm not high maintenance but am still a sucker for products that promise "smaller pores" and "radiant skin"!
Considering these products are usually advertised by 10yo models and still airbrushed...why I fall for it, I do not know!
Sigh...one born every minute...
Manda is right about Green Tea and I lurve honey.
Honey NZ has some great products. (I've added a link).
My mum used the fresh produce aisle as her cosmetic cleansing aisle so I've picked up a lot of her natural treatments...but nowadays, one is left wondering what chemicals are being absorbed here, unless you go organic of course.
I am scared of aluminium in cosmetics, especially in anti-perspirants...unnatural I tell ya...that's not to say I stink people! I use products that don't inhibit the body's natural hydrating process and have witch hazel and chamomile.
Rereading it...scary post Lilla! Why do we do this to ourselves??
DuskDevi
Learning Something Everyday
Malaysia Found
Great tips on the toner issue.
I can easily find lemon here so I guess it's another great thing besides clearing sore throat and be one of the health eliments for gount patients!
I wrote something about Lemon before in another domain. If you have time you can go and have a read. ^_^
The contrast of Lemon
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Thanks for the compliments...and tips... lemon is another all-rounder isn't it?
I'm on my way over after I interpret another dream for someone...
thanks again for your kind words...
Lilla...
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Welcome, a pleasure to see you (and bub),
Yes, probably lighten the spending too...
Manda has some great tips coming up ...
Thank you for your words,
they make the work worthwhile!
Lilla...
Medicinal Nature
You do some great work here Lilla. Keep it up.
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
I hear your words around the traps again and wonder how we all managed a day without your lovely wit *smiling* welcome back.
Yes, when I first researched all this stuff I was convulsing for a week as I cleared my pores and cupboards, like K.L. I'm a wary shopper since then, I can tell you.
What amazes me is who thought up the fact that women had no hair, no smell and no shape?
I've heard (and it's only a rumour mind) but would love to know for real... whether any men reading this actually find hairy armpits a turn on or a turn off in women?
Personally, I couldn't care less, I'm just curious? but I digress... again...*mm*
DD,
Have you tried that deodrant stone crystal stuff, it's very good. I'm with your mum, everything we need is at the greengrocers...as I recently said to voices...it's all in nature... relate to it.
Thanks for the link, really interesting ...
Lilla...
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
I wanted to add this link back to your Orblelogies Night of nights in 'Do Friendships Survive Outside of the Orbubble, but the hugest thunderstorm blew over here in tropical north Q., and I had to turn the computer off...
So, the idea was that the link helps invite some more along....
to make it a really big party.... what do you say?
I read with interest that you and voices were getting married,
CONGRATULATIONS!!!
It's a great post (and idea)...
Lilla...
Rugby World Cup 2007
Especially when the host of a popular party shows her guests a sports room...
Thanks Lovely Lilla.
Voices and I might elope...husbands and children in tow...although Voices was worried about how Homer will feel...all the Homerphiles running off with each other.
K.L. and I had talked about this too...damn...I am such a Don Juanita...!! A Cassienova, a blogamist, a...okay, enough.
Right now Tropical North Qld sounds so..so...tropical. Sigh...right now Sydney is paradise...if you're mould.
DuskDevi
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Care to explain the mouldy comment...?
Completely lost...
Lilla...
Rugby World Cup 2007
Sydney is damp and dark at the moment!!
I'm just writing another comment in answer to your first one to me..
Rugby World Cup 2007
I have tried the crystal stone stuff and it does work but
because I do a lot of sporting activity (pounding the keyboard, running up a tab, playing hookey...sorry!...I do mean actual sport), I do use an anti-pep/deo and it does say it's aluminium free...hope it doesn't really have something worse!!
I do like the eau de moi but I also like to smell artificially 'nice'...the only perfume I wear is vanilla oil...on top of the coco butter and vanilla body wash and cocoa butter body lotion...I'm just a lovely smelling chemical sponge aren't I???
Ooh...pineapple and papaya...great exfoliators.
(am still dreaming about tropical places...)
Tis a hairy issue that one (groan)...I'm curious too. I admit I do like my underarms smooth and hair free but is it because I am conditioned to like it so?
Saw a funny thing...cosmetic deodarants for beautiful underarms...so you too can look like a 10yo..
Speaking of which...I have never understood the fascination with Brazilians.
The wax job not the people.
I am a woman. I look like a woman. Not a pre pubescent girl.
That's not to say the um...garden is ungroomed...we still do topiary work...mow the lawn, trim the hedges... but we don't stripfarm.
Is this just too much information or what?????
(This is what I meant...I keep forgetting I'm in a public forum. Thank goodness for masks!)
And some of the reasons for liking Brazilians... hello?...if he couldn't find your 'pleasure zones' pre rip...sugar...he's just not that in to you!!
We're so weird...
Thanks Lovely Lilla...
DuskDevi
ps. jj?...real duniya naam??
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
*still LOL-ing*
ummm, I'm not sure, we'll just have to see what happens...(to the ratings)..don't care it was very funny and I enjoy your commentary... it's still on the subject of the post...well done!
Contemplating putting the hairy armpit question into a new post, what d'ya think...
Survey time..?.
Lilla
Rugby World Cup 2007
Oh yeah!!
And...a new Orble News Post
"How To Keep Gardening Secrets"
aka "How Not To Forget That A Gazillion Other People Read Comments"
Always a pleasure Lovely Lilla
DuskDevi
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
For those of you interested in waxing...the skin deep link above has some great statistics on these waxes and just what is involved (chemically). The EWG studies found that modern waxes and hair removal creams have 8 main ingredients; including
Rosin :
Keratoplastine Acid :
Carnauba Wax
Menthol
Beeswax
Isopropyl
Myristate
Parafin
Of the eight, five are listed as illegal ingredients in EU and three as illegal in US, seven are listed as toxic with potential for infectious disease risk and all but one have a standard cancer risk rating...
Rugby World Cup 2007
More posts and comments like this Lilla and we'll all be in favour of hairy armpits!!
DuskDevi
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
That's the funny thing, I wasn't making a case for, or against them... my point was that if you prefer them, you'd probably be better off with a razor rather than a chemical cocktail. My curiosity was scientific, because I don't read women's magazines and prefer to get my facts on-line ... But once again, for some reason, the subject of haiy armpits in women just remains so controversial that I am again left to wonder...why? And do men really care...?
I do enjoy your wit though as always,
You are a rare gem.
Lilla...
Rugby World Cup 2007
"Okay then... survey time...whilst DD streaks across the rugby field shouting down with Brazillians!"
...just read it now and spat my drink out!
I'm not streaking...I'm rolling around on the floor in hysterics!!
Thank you lovely Lilla...that was good!
DD
ps. how goes the hairy armpit survey?
pps. The Hairy Arm Pit...good name for a pub.
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Such is life amongst the fickle masses....
I'm coming over to your place, see if we can boost product lines there....personally I thought it a reasonable kind of question?
The kind of pub you'd expect Tom Waites to be at the piano, hey... a pub "with a little bit of poison..."
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Rugby World Cup 2007
See what happens when you start talking about personal grooming??
X-communicado...!!
Nope, no reinvention, still grinning behind my mask. I noticed that before and it has happened on other sites. Asked Orble about it, they said this shouldn't be happening...but um, hey guys...still is...
No matter. My words are still here Lilla.
Man...that's the pits in'it...bet you if you asked, what do you think about a hairy brad pitt, you'd get a response!
Much pyaar...
DuskDevi
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
Sure is, it reminds of that song by the Kinks. Not to worry, I think the fact that Britney Spears is finally divorcing that jerk is life affirming and much more interesting than hairy armpits anyway…
We'll talk again soon,
Lilla…
Rugby World Cup 2007
I think the chemicals are working on me Lilla.
Help.
DD
ps. you can see me again! Orble had told me to do reload my posting image after their server changeover and I...um..kinda forgot...oh well.
I liked being X marks the spot.
Keep forgetting to say this to you...I love your tag pic! A butterfly (wind) on lush (earth) leaves combined with Enviro Warrior (fire)...really affects me.
Some would say uh-huh, she's affected alright...
Enviro Warrior
An Extra Ordinary Life
Dream Herald
Esoteric Bookshop
*lol* … I don’t know her songs but get the gist…I am happy for her though, truly…
I must be psychic *mona lisa smile* …I wrote a new post this morning to conclude my expose on Chemicals. It should help you greatly with the chemical overload and improve the *twitching*... take two pills, three times daily and let me know how you feel in the morning...
Thank you so much for the compliment on my tag, (so glad I actually know what that little picture is called now too)…the butterfly actually fits my nature and philosophy in many ways and is also one of the most beautiful things I like to look at on the planet. The shame is you don't see so many butterflies’ anymore because of all the pesticides and house spraying that goes on...perhaps my picture will be the only legacy left of this little creature one day ... who knows.
I was thinking of revealing myself in a photo soon, but until I can decide for sure… well ...what is it the wise one's say ... when in doubt, leave it out…
I love your visits and hope to see you (cross or not) again… in fact I look out for you ...
* reciprocal hugs and piyaar* I think Orbleand is lucky to have you.
Lilla….