Body Wash Chemicals That Ruin Cologne: A Guide

The skin is the body's largest organ, and what we put on it can have a big impact on our health. Many body washes and shower gels contain potentially harmful chemicals, which can cause both short- and long-term damage. Some of the most common toxic ingredients found in these products include Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), parabens, triclosan, and synthetic fragrances. These chemicals can cause skin irritation, disrupt hormones, increase the risk of cancer, and contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. To protect your health, it is important to be mindful of the ingredients in your body wash and opt for natural or organic products made with plant-based ingredients.

Parabens

The concern with these chemicals is that scientific studies suggest that parabens can disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility and reproductive organs, affect birth outcomes, and increase the risk of cancer. They can also cause skin irritation.

How to Avoid Parabens

When looking for parabens on ingredient labels, look for methylparaben, propylparaben, isoparaben, or butylparaben.

Alternatives

There are many paraben-free body washes available on the market. Some of these include:

• Dove Body Wash
• Method Body Wash
• Ginger Lily Farms Botanicals Nourishing Body Wash
• Renpure Tea Tree & Mint Body Wash
• OGX Extra Creamy + Coconut Miracle Oil Ultra Moisture Body Wash

Triclosan

Potential Health Risks

Short-term animal studies have indicated that exposure to high doses of triclosan is linked to decreased levels of certain thyroid hormones. While the significance of these findings on human health is not yet clear, it raises concerns about the potential impact of triclosan on hormonal balance.

Some studies also suggest that triclosan may contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This means that common bacteria may become harder to treat over time, posing a threat to public health.

Additionally, triclosan has been associated with the development of allergies in children. A study by Allison Aiello, an epidemiology professor, found that individuals with higher concentrations of triclosan in their urine were more likely to have allergies.

Environmental Concerns

Regulatory Actions

Due to the potential risks associated with triclosan, regulatory actions have been taken to limit its use. The European Union has banned triclosan in personal care products. Similarly, the state of Minnesota in the United States has prohibited antibacterial soaps and body washes containing triclosan.

In 2017, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a final rule prohibiting the use of triclosan in certain over-the-counter healthcare antiseptic products without premarket review due to insufficient data regarding their safety and effectiveness.

Alternatives to Triclosan

To avoid the potential risks associated with triclosan, consumers can opt for regular soap and water for handwashing and bathing. If a sink is not accessible, using a hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol can effectively reduce germs.

When choosing personal care products, it is essential to read the ingredient labels carefully. If you wish to avoid triclosan, look for alternative products that do not list it as an ingredient.

In summary, triclosan is a chemical compound with potential health and environmental risks. Regulatory actions have been implemented to restrict its use in certain products, and consumers can take proactive steps to choose triclosan-free alternatives to protect their health and the environment.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

SLS allows other chemicals to penetrate the skin more deeply and enter the bloodstream. It can be absorbed into the body and mimic oestrogen, which may result in the formation of potentially carcinogenic nitrates and dioxins. It takes the body a long time to break down the residue of SLS, which is why it is often associated with worse effects than its close relative, Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES).

If you are looking for a body wash or shower gel, it is best to avoid products that contain SLS, especially if you have sensitive skin. Instead, opt for a gentle cleanser that will clean your body without causing any irritation. There are many SLS-free options available, including those that are cruelty-free, paraben-free, soap-free, and non-irritating.

By choosing an SLS-free body wash or shower gel, you can help protect your skin and overall health from the potential negative effects of this common chemical.

Synthetic fragrances

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) warns consumers to interpret the word "fragrance" on a product label as "hidden chemicals". To avoid synthetic fragrances, choose fragrance-free body washes and use high-quality, uncontaminated essential oils to add scent instead. Even "naturally" scented products can be as unsafe as synthetic ones, and "unscented" products may contain masking scents, so always read the label.

Phthalates are almost always present in fragrances, as they make scents last longer, but this toxic ingredient is not listed on labels. They have been banned for cosmetic use in the European Union, and the National Toxicology Program has designated them as "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen". They are also associated with reproductive and developmental toxicity, endocrine disruption, and decreased sperm counts.

The fragrance industry is self-regulated, meaning there is no agency overseeing fragrance ingredient safety and chemical disclosure to consumers. This makes it especially important for consumers to be aware of the potential dangers of synthetic fragrances and to avoid them where possible.

Phthalates

• Endocrine disruption
• Reproductive development problems
• Pregnancy loss
• Adverse obstetrical outcomes
• Male fertility issues
• Lowered testosterone levels
• Birth defects
• Cardiovascular problems

To avoid exposure to phthalates, you can:

• Select products labelled "phthalate-free".
• Avoid air fresheners and scented candles.
• Choose fragrance-free skincare products, such as shampoo and lotion.
• Wash your hands after handling products that may contain phthalates.
• Avoid using nail polish and cosmetics that may contain phthalates.
• Opt for metal or glass water bottles instead of plastic ones.
• Avoid vinyl flooring and wall coverings.
• Avoid microwaving food in plastic containers, as phthalates can leach into food when heated.

To identify phthalates in products, look for three or four-word acronyms that refer to their chemical structure, such as DEP (Diethyl phthalate), DMP (Dimethyl phthalate), and DBP (Dibutyl phthalate).

Frequently asked questions