Today’s households are much safer and more hygienic than the homes our ancestors kept in previous centuries. Thanks to stricter laws, technological advancements, and greater awareness of certain health and safety risks, our household products are now required to pass certain tests and include certain labels in order to be sold in the United States. But if you think that means every ingredient is safe, think again!
Unfortunately, some of the same chemicals that allow companies to pass these tests – such as flame-retardants that prevent flammability risks and plastics that increase durability and prevent injury – are also toxins that can cause devastating side effects in large doses. You probably already know that organic produce is grown without pesticides and other harsh chemicals, but what about the ingredients used for your shampoo – or the container in which it comes?
We know how important it is to protect your family from anything that might make them sick. Your home should be a safe space, not a collection of particles and vapors that could invade your family’s bodies and affect their metabolism, immune system, and more. Take a look at three of the most common household toxins, which may already be lurking in your cabinets and closets right now.
Phthalates in Non-Organic Personal Care Products
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), phthalate exposure is already widespread in the United States, and women are more likely to have high levels from body wash, shampoo, soap, makeup, and other personal care products that may contain these harsh plasticizers. That’s important because laboratory tests have already connected phthalate metabolites with reproductive problems in animals.
Beauty products aren’t the only common household products with high phthalate counts. Most human exposure actually comes from foods and beverages that were contaminated by plastic containers, which send phthalates through the metabolic process and into the urine. Children also face higher risks of ingesting vapor or dust that contains phthalates, because they touch their hands to their mouths more often.
Carcinogens in Hair Dye
Hair dye is another personal care product that may contain harmful toxins. The American Cancer Society explains that temporary hair dye doesn’t actually penetrate the hair shaft, but semi-permanent and permanent dyes cause lasting changes, so their chemical content is more significant. Unfortunately, these dyes have long been linked to cancer, especially bladder and blood cancers.
If you dye your hair darker, your risks may be greater. Common coloring agents such as phenols and aromatic amines are more abundant in darker dyes, and they have also been linked to increased cancer risks. Though no direct correlations have been proven and laboratory animals had to directly ingest them, it’s still important to avoid coloring products that are loaded with these artificial ingredients.
For safe and vibrant color, try our natural hair dyes which are free of ammonia, parabens, harsh preservatives, synthetic colors, or fragrances, phthalates, sodium lauryl or laureth sulfate.
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Preservatives in Pet Products
Of course, your household may not be limited to human family members. What about the products you give your pets? The pet industry is booming, and every company may not be putting your pets first in their pursuit of profits. Some dog and cat treats are loaded with artificial preservatives and fillers, while pet toys aren’t subjected to the same regulations as toys for your human kids.
Dogs, cats, rabbits, and other household pets have small, sensitive bodies that can’t tolerate cumulative exposure to toxins. They also have no choice in which products they use, so it’s your responsibility to give your pets organic pet products that won’t harm them. For example, it’s important to seek out natural dog treats, cat treats, and other pet food products that are actually natural. Two cancer-causing compounds – butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene – are used to preserve animal fats and preserve the shelf life of pet foods.
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