Ok, here’s the bad news. Everyday personal care products—cosmetics, lotions, shampoo, you name it—are often loaded with chemicals that can wreak havoc on your health. Many of these chemicals, such as parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrances, have been shown to disrupt the body’s natural processes and even lead to long-term health issues. Studies have linked certain common ingredients to serious conditions like hormone disruption, respiratory problems, and even increased cancer risk.
For example, phthalates, often found in fragrances, can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormones that regulate everything from metabolism to reproduction. Research suggests exposure to these chemicals may contribute to both reduced fertility and developmental issues in children. Similarly, parabens, used as preservatives in many cosmetics, can raise your risk of malignant melanoma and have been detected in human breast tissue, raising concerns about their potential connection to breast cancer.
Formaldehyde, another ingredient used in some shampoos and soaps among other products, is classified as a known human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Chronic exposure to this chemical, even at low levels, has been associated with increased risk of respiratory irritation and cancer.
Studies have raised concerns about aluminum salts found in many antiperspirants, linking them to an increased risk of kidney problems, breast cancer and potential neurological effects, as aluminum can accumulate in the brain.
For these reasons and lots more, we should all consider switching to healthier products. Apparently, they say the average American uses 10 personal care products a day, exposing themselves to a combination of up to 200 unique chemicals. Who are they? I have no idea, but they clearly haven’t seen my bathroom counter in the morning. I mean, 10 products? I’ve got anti-aging serum, face lotion, eye cream, brightening serum, sunscreen, body lotion, perfume, deodorant, hair detangler, volume spray, regular hairspray, root touch-up pen… and that’s before I’ve even started putting on makeup! The number of chemicals we are consuming each day can be staggering!
So, if you’ve decided to dip your toe into the world of healthier products, where do you even start? First things first: unless you’ve got a New Year’s Resolution level of commitment (and deep pockets), put down the trash bag. No need to go all Marie Kondo on your bathroom cabinet just yet. Instead, take baby steps to make it more manageable. Out of body wash? Perfect—replace it with a cleaner option. Out of toothpaste? Then let’s focus on that one. Working through that last bit of aluminum-laden antiperspirant? Swap it for a natural deodorant.
Once you’ve tackled the basics, maybe consider makeup. I get it, you’ve probably been on a lifelong quest for the perfect foundation, mascara, and lipstick, and the thought of starting over feels like climbing Mount Everest. Instead of throwing in the towel, focus on getting the essentials swapped out first (deodorant, toothpaste, lotion), and then tackle things like face wash and serums. Once you’re ready, the makeup battlefield awaits.
Need some help along the way? Download the Yuka app—it’s like having a personal body care detective in your pocket. Scan the barcode of any product, and it’ll tell you right away if you’re dealing with a hero or a villain. Anything with a “bad” or “poor” rating? Just walk away. And if you’re looking for the best alternatives (the ones that actually work), check out the blogs here or head over to my Instagram page at Living Lovely and Well for recommendations. I’ve already done the homework, so you don’t have to!