Livinglovingandexploring!

I am so terrible at reading labels, and it’s not even funny. However, I’ve been discovering more and more things lately about toxins found in most households and even MAKEUP products! Not that I wear makeup, like ever, lol, but still! If I did, I’d want to watch out for these things!

Jennifer Dodd, with National Strategies PR, was kind enough to send me this list of four commonly found toxins that you’ll likely find littered throughout your home! I know that I have some cleaning to do now! In terms of cleaning out my cleaners!  

I’ve wanted to do my best to start using more eco-friendly items around the home lately, but haven’t know where to start. This is a good starter list that Jennifer sent me from Durisan, experts in the sanitation industry (I DID NOT write up this information – it’s directly from Durisan!)! I’ll be checking out my labels from now on, that’s certain!

First up: Toxin 1

Parabens

These toxic chemicals, often found in household cleaners and beauty products, are preservatives: They prevent the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold in cosmetic products. They can appear in different forms, so watch out for:

· Butylparaben 

· Isobutylparaben 

· Ethylparaben

· Propylparaben

· Methylparaben

Parabens are absorbed through your skin, and it’s believed (but not yet proven) that excessive use could lead to cancer. Parabens are xenoestrogens, which means they mimic estrogenic hormones in your body and can lead to the production of more estrogen. They can also affect your endocrine system, causing reproductive, immune, neurological, and developmental issues. They can also lead to skin irritation and neurotoxicity.

Be sure to check any household products that claim to be antimicrobial or antifungal (such as dish soap, glass cleaner, all-purpose cleaner, bathroom cleaner, and others); they probably contain parabens under the above-mentioned names—unless they use a non-toxic formulation. 

Next up: Toxin 2

Formaldehyde

Watch out for this dangerous ingredient, which is often used in packaged foods, nail polishes, beauty products, pressed-wood furniture, and household cleaning products. Formaldehyde can irritate your skin and aggravate asthma symptoms. It can even cause cancer if inhaled too often, and it is also easily absorbed by your skin. 

Always use in a well-ventilated room—or try to avoid products containing Formaldehyde altogether. In addition to causing cancer, it can also cause watery eyes, skin irritation, nausea, and respiratory irritations. Formaldehyde has several names; keep an eye out for any of these:

• Formalin
• Methanediol
• Formic aldehyde
• Methyl aldehyde
• Methanal
• Methylene oxide
• Methylene glycol

Third: Toxin 3

Alcohol

You’ll find alcohol on many cosmetic and household labels. It may be refreshing on your warm skin and dry quickly, but alcohol can also irritate and dry out your skin. It’s especially dangerous for those with sensitive skin.

Using alcohol-based products constantly can result in your skin losing its protective barrier and making you more prone to viruses and bacteria. Look out for alcohol under its other names, including:

· SD alcohol

· Methanol

· Isopropyl

· Denatured ethyl alcohol

· Ethanol

Last, but certainly not least: Toxin 4

Phthalates

Phthalates are used in synthetic fragrances. You’ll find them in everything from laundry detergent and soap to cosmetics—and even toilet paper.

Phthalate exposure has been shown to cause early puberty in girls, which is a risk factor for breast cancer later in life. It also disrupts the endocrine system, affecting your body’s most important functions, including metabolism, sleep, and mood and tissue function. Best to avoid them! 

Are there any common household products or toxins that you avoid regularly? I’d love it if you dropped me a comment and let me know! Looking forward to hearing from you!

Love ya,

Kelly Ann

Relevant hashtags if you’d care to share (which I’d appreciate!): #cleaning #household #toxins #chemicals #badchemicals #durisan #sanitation #clean #homes #irritants

Speaking of products that are “good” for your home, check out this fantastic sanitizer from Zoey Naturals, that I use on a daily basis! It’s paraben, sulfate, and phthalate FREE!