Did you know that what you put on your skin, goes in? Research shows that we absorb 60% of products applied topically whether natural or chemical. These ingredients pass through the skin directly into our bloodstream. Companies are not required by law to disclose all of their ingredients on the label. These companies also do not have to prove that chemicals are safe before putting them into cleaning or body care products. The chemical industry as a whole is unregulated. In 2010, the President's Cancer Panel Report showed that there are over 80,000 chemicals commercially used in manufactured cleaning products. (both household cleaners and cosmetic products) The FDA has little control over these companies and relies upon the companies themselves to voluntarily recall a product and/or to report injuries from their use. So basically the companies have a choice on whether to do this or not. So, all this to say..we need to take responsibility for what we put on our skin. Things we clean our house with, things we wash our hands with, what we use for moisturizer, sunscreen, perfumes, etc...These chemicals being used are now being recognized as endocrine disruptors causing various health problems. One known ingredient often used in your household is triclosan. This is found in dishwashing liquids, hand soaps, and toothpaste. It is an antibacterial pesticide that commonly leads to decreased thyroid function and is restricted as a cosmetic ingredient in both Canada and Japan. Another common ingredient you'll find are paraben preservatives. They are compounds that are used in cosmetic products to increase shelf life. They can be a fragrance agent and a preservative. The issue with parabens is that in the body they mimic estrogen, known as xenoestrogens. They also act as endocrine disruptors and some people even link them to cases of breast cancers. It is the number 1 on the top 5 of the dirty dozen carcinogen list. This is only 2 of the many chemical ingredients used today. Just as we look at the lables on our foods, we need to be diligent about reading labels on our other products as well.
My bestie and I catching some rays, slathered in coconut oil. This is the owner of Oregano Rose.
Now for the GOOD NEWS!!!!!! Many people are aware of this issue nowadays and there are plenty of companies making safe household products and cosmetics. You can often find soaps and lotions even at your local farmer's market which is also a great way to support your community. Natural grocers such as Whole Foods, Sprouts, GreenLife,etc...carry many options to choose from. And..if you are feeling creative, there are even recipes to make your own safe and natural products.
One of my favorite companies is called Living Libations. They are based in Canada and grow many of their own herbs and even process some of the essential oils. They offer natural beauty care and amazing natural dentistry products along with a plethora of information on why and how to use their products. Another company for body care is called Primal Life Organics. This was created by a nurse on a mission to care for herself and family naturally. These are just two options of the many out there.
If you are local, here in Little Rock, Arkansas you can visit the Green Corner Store for some locally made options as well.
A personal story now...I skipped out on my 6 month cleaning visits for about 2 years at the dentist. When I went back this year my hygeinest was surprised at the lack of tartar or any issues with my teeth. Floss, and homemade tooth powder by Oregano Rose in Oregon. : )
If you want to work with me on your healthy holistic lifestyle plan, email me at jamilynn76@gmail.com
