More than half of all adults in America experience rashes and other skin irritations after exposure to common cosmetics and personal care items, as well to cleaning, cooking and gardening products. Natalie Johnson, an environmental toxicologist with the Texas A&M University School of Public Health and the mother of two young children , notes that chemicals commonly found in these products also can have a detrimental effect on children and even pets. With a little effort, however, consumers can reduce their exposure to the chemicals known to trigger reactions, she said.
"While we don't live in a chemical-free world—chemicals are all around us—environmentally friendly products are available," Johnson said. Johnson said personal products—such as shower gel, shampoo, moisturizer and makeup—contain numerous chemicals, including three of the main sources of skin irritation: parabens, sulfates and oxybenzone. Parabens are chemical preservatives in lotions, cosmetics and shower gels that hinder bacterial contamination.
Research has suggested that parabens can mimic hormones and cause endocrine disruption . "The FDA has reviewed available data and concluded that low-level exposure to parabens does not significantly increase adverse health risks," Johnson said. "However, many products on the market today are paraben-free, and these might be a good choice.
" Sulfates are chemical substances included in shampoos to create lather. They also can strip hair of its natural oils. "I se.
