Fortunately, the market is putting out some green paints that are supposed to be less toxic in one way or the other. The trouble is that the number of green labels is growing, which can lead to customer confusion. Here are a few guidelines to help you out.

Why Choose “Green” Paints?

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air in most houses these days is of worse quality than outdoor air. Paints and finishes can be one of the leading causes of indoor air pollution. Most are made from petrochemical-based solvents, and even after they’re dry, can release low levels of toxins into the air for years. Most of these toxins come from volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like benzene and formaldehyde. These compounds are emitted as gases and contain a variety of both natural and man-made chemicals, many of which can be hazardous to human health.

It used to be that VOCs were essential to the performance of indoor paints, but consumer demand for safer options has led to some lower-VOC alternatives. These options can reduce the occurrence of allergies and chemical sensitivities, improve indoor air quality, and lower the risk of other health problems, as well as reduce environmental contaminants. Painted areas can also be occupied sooner, as the telltale paint fumes are much less potent.

Types of Less-Toxic Paints

Though there are low-VOC options, most paints contain at least some VOCs. Even “zero-VOC” formulations contain a small amount of toxins. Three general categories of these safer paints include:

• Natural Paints: made with natural raw ingredients like water, plant oils and resins, plant dyes and essential oils, natural minerals, bee’s wax, earth and mineral dyes. They give off almost no smell, and are the safest option for human health.
• Zero-VOC: Any paint with a total amount of 5 grams/liter or less VOCs can be labeled zero-VOC. These are considered to be healthier options to regular paint.
• Low-VOC: These use water as a carrier instead of petroleum-based solvents, so they create lower levels of harmful emissions than regular paints. They also contain no, or very low levels of formaldehyde and heavy metals. Most of these paints meet the 50 grams/liter VOC threshold.

VOC Labels

In addition to the above categories, many regular paints have various “green” labels that say something about their emissions. Here are a few examples:

• Asthma & Allergy Friendly: This is a seal put out by the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. Paints that carry the seal are certified to ensure they do not have properties likely to irritate allergies and asthma. VOCs must not exceed certification thresholds, but I couldn’t track down what those were.
• Greenguard: This group allows only trace levels of VOCs, including formaldehyde and styrene. The Greenguard Environmental Institute sponsors this seal.
• Green Seal: This group limits VOCs, bars certain chemicals, and assesses performance.
• Green Wise: Products with this label have limited VOCs, are certified free of certain toxic chemicals, and have products tested by the Coatings Research Group. This label is not as common as some of the others.
• Green Sure: Created by Sherwin-Williams, this label covers only their products that have VOCs of 50 grams per liter or less and are free of certain chemicals. There is no third-party confirmation of the results. Consumer Reports says this one didn’t perform as well in tests.
• Green Promise: Created by Benjamin Moore and covers only their products, which are tested in third-party laboratories to meet the requirements of Greenguard.

Do They Work?

It’s all well and good to get rid of toxins, but then, does the paint work well on the wall? Of course, we care about that too!

The best option here is to do your research before you buy. The New York Times put out a review that acknowledged when low-VOC paints first came out, they didn’t work that well—they went on unevenly and the color choices were limited. Things have changed, however, and now we have options that really do cover nicely. The author named the following six brands as those that performed the best. The good news is that you can get good coverage in nice colors without risking your health.

• Farrow & Ball
• Stark
• Benjamin Moore Natura zero-VOC
• Safecoat
• Yolo Colorhouse
• Mythic zero-VOC paints

Have you done some painting with a low-VOC or natural paint? Please share your recommendations.

Photo courtesy Passive Income Dream.com via Flickr.com.

Sources

“An Introduction to Indoor Air Quality,” The Environmental Protection Agency, http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html.

“Interior Paints: Not All Green Logos Mean the Same Thing,” Consumer Reports, February 7, 2012, http://news.consumerreports.org/home/2012/02/green-logos-for-low-and-no-voc-interior-paints.html.

“Non-Toxic Paints,” EarthEasy, Solutions for Sustainable Living, http://guides.eartheasy.com/live_nontoxic_paints.htm.

Stephen Treffinger, “Finally, Good-Looking, Nontoxic Paint?” The New York Times, February 10, 2010. http://www.nytimes.com/2010/02/11/garden/11roadtest.html?_r=1.

Fortunately, we don’t have to. The truth is that according to scientific research, some plastics are safer than others. After doing some research, here’s what I found.

What Are the Different Types of Plastics?

Here they are, with their recycling numbers—you’ll find these usually on the bottom of the cup, bottle, or other container.

PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate): Used to make bottles for water, sports drinks, ketchup, personal care products and mouthwash; as well as jars to hold peanut butter and jelly.
Safety—Good: Not known to leach any harmful chemicals. Considered safe, but it is best to avoid heating and freezing. Some studies show that temperature changes may cause these plastics to leach chemicals into foods and beverages.
Recycle #1: Easy to recycle. Picked up through most curbside recycling programs.

HDPE (high density polyethylene): Used to make bottles for milk, water, juice, bleach, detergent, and shampoo, as well as tubs for yogurt and margarine, grocery and trash bags, and cereal box liners.
Safety—Good: Not known to leach any harmful chemicals.
Recycle #2: Picked up through most curbside recycling programs, though some allow only those containers with necks.

PVC (polyvinyl chloride; also V): Used to make plastic wraps for meats and cheeses; also used to create medical equipment, siding, and piping.
Safety—Bad: Not recommended. Traces of plasticizer chemicals can leach out when PVC contacts foods. Contains DEHP, a suspected human carcinogen.
Recyling #3: Rarely recycled. Accepted by some plastic lumber makers.

LDPE (low density polyethylene): Used to make bags for bread and frozen food; also to make dry cleaning and shopping bags.
Safety—Okay: Not known to leach any harmful chemicals.
Recycling #4: Not often accepted by curbside programs, but grocery stores may accept shopping bags.

PP (polypropylene): Used to make bottles for ketchup, yogurt, syrup, and margarine; also for straws and medicine bottles.
Safety—Okay: Not considered as safe as #2, but not known to leach any harmful chemical toxins.
Recycling #5: Recycled only through some curbside programs. Becoming more accepted in recycling programs.

PS (polystyrene): Used to create foam insulation and Styrofoam cups and carry-out containers; also used in egg cartons and compact disc cases.
Safety—Bad: Polyestrene can leach toxins into foods. Styrene recently added to the government’s list of compounds anticipated to cause cancer.
Recycling #6: Not usually recycled, but some programs will accept.

Other (typically polycarbonate and miscellaneous): Used to make baby bottles and eating utensils; also for sunglasses, DVDs, iPod and computer cases.
Safety—Usually Bad: Several plastic resins exist in this category, but the main one—polycarbonate—has shown in studies to leach potential hormone disruptors into food. This is the plastic that’s made with biphenyl-A (BPA) that has the FDA concerned.
Recycle #7: Not typically recycled, though some programs may accept.

Which plastics are safe for use?

Those plastics considered safe according to current scientific research include:

• #1 PET
• #2 HDPE
• #4 LDPE
• #5 PP

Which ones may potentially leach BPA?

• #7 Other

Remember, however, that not all plastics with the #7 are polycarbonate. Some plastics actually made from plants are in this category. But to be safe, avoid #7 for now.

Can I use any of these to cook in the microwave?

I’d recommend that you use glass or ceramic instead. For foods that you “steam in a bag,” I’d also recommend you remove them and put them in another container before cooking.

Are Styrofoam cups safe?

As I mentioned in a former post, styrene was just added to the government’s list of compounds anticipated to cause cancer. Though cups are likely to leach only small amounts, I would choose ceramic and stainless steel mugs instead.

What if my child chews on his sippy cup or straw?

Sippy cups are typically made with #5 plastic, considered safe, but if it were my child, I would remove the cup or straw once he or she has finished drinking.

Do you have any more tips to add on using safe plastics? Please share.

Photo courtesy alliecat1881 via Flickr.com.

What’s going on?

Study Shows Some Polishes Mislabeled

The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) sampled 25 nail care products available only from nail salons—twelve of which were labeled as being free of potentially harmful chemicals like toluene, dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and formaldehyde. Here are the results:

• 10 of the 12 that claimed to be free of toxins contained toluene, 4 at “dangerously high” levels
• 4 of the 12 that claimed to be free of toxins contained DBP
• 5 of the 7 that claimed to be free of these three toxins actually contained at least one of them at significant levels
• Some of the products that claimed to be toxin free contained higher levels of DBP than those that didn’t make claims

The agency said the products making toxin-free claims that actually contain toxins may violate state laws that require manufacturers to disclose harmful chemicals in their products.

Health Hazards

The DTSC was particularly concerned about these three toxins because they are known as the “toxic trio,” and have been linked with developmental problems, asthma, and other illnesses. Nail salon workers are most at risk, because their level of exposure through inhalation is greater than that of customers, though customers may be at risk as well. Regulators also noted that nail salons are often poorly ventilated, increasing risk of significant exposure.

So serious are these health concerns that some cities, including San Francisco and New York, have passed ordinances to recognize those salons that use products free of the toxic three. Formaldehyde is a colorless gas that has been linked to leukemia and lymphatic cancers. Toluene makes the polish look smooth, but can lead to headaches, fatigue, and nausea. DBP is a phthalate that makes nail polish last longer, but has been linked to cancer in animal studies, and with reproductive abnormalities.

Which Products Were They?

Among the products said to be mislabeled were the following:

• Sation 99 basecoat
• Sation 53 red-pink nail color
• Dare to Wear nail lacquer
• Chelsea 650 Baby’s Breath Nail Lacquer
• New York Summer Nail Color
• Paris Spicy 298 nail lacquer
• Sunshine nail lacquer
• Cacie Light Free Gel Basecoat
• Cacie Sun Protection Topcoat
• Golden Girl Topcoat
• Nail Art Top-N-Seal and High Gloss Topcoat

Hopefully this report will help to change the situation so these products are labeled more accurately. But until changes are made, what should you do? My suggestion is that you take your own products to the salon, or go to those salons in San Francisco and New York that are recognized as toxin-free salons. Realize that even those salons that attempt to carry healthier products may still unknowingly be carrying mislabeled brands.

Read my post for some natural nail polish brands, or let our readers know if you have a favorite!

Do you have a favorite non-toxic nail polish? Let us know!

Photo courtesy Krista Bradley via Flickr.com.

What is Dimethicone?

Dimethicone is what the chemists like to call a silicon-based polymer—”polymer” meaning it’s a large molecule made up of several smaller units bonded together. Simply put, it’s a silicon oil, man-made in the laboratory and used in personal care products as an anti-foaming agent, skin protectant, and skin and hair conditioner.

Manufacturers like it because it makes products easily spreadable, so you get that feeling of the lotion or cream gliding over your skin. Dimethicone also helps form a protective barrier on the skin, and can fill in the fine lines and wrinkles on the face, which is why it’s often used in makeup primers.

Is Dimethicone Safe?

The FDA has approved the use of dimethicone as a skin protectant ingredient in over-the-counter products, and the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) panel has assessed it as safe to use in personal care products. Some studies have found it to soothe and help improve chronic hand dermatitis, and to help reduce inflammation and irritation. The Skin Deep Database also lists it has have a low hazard risk.

For me, though, this is not a good ingredient to be using in your daily skin care. Like petroleum products, silicone oils can actually make dry skin worse over time. Instead of sinking into your skin and nourishing it from the inside out, like healthy ingredients do, it forms a sort of plastic-like barrier on the outside of skin.

Why Dimethicone is Bad for Your Skin

That artificial coating on the outside of skin causes several issues:

• It traps everything under it—including bacteria, sebum, and impurities—which could lead to increased breakouts and blackheads
• The coating action actually prevents the skin from performing its normal activities—like sweating, temperature regulating, sloughing off dead skin cells, etc.
• Prolonged exposure to dimethicone can actually increase skin irritation, due to the coating property and because dimethicone is listed as a possible skin and eye irritant
• Those with sensitive or reactive skin are at risk of an allergic reaction to dimethicone
• On top of all this, dimethicone is a non-biodegradable chemical—bad for the environment

I also believe that using these types of ingredients on your skin can actually exacerbate skin aging. Why?

• You’re inhibiting skin’s natural processes
• You’re creating a dependency on the coating product, disrupting the skin’s own hydrating processes, which in the end increases dryness, making fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable
• The coating properties may increase breakouts, particularly if you’re susceptible to acne, which will lead to scars and older-looking skin
• You’re doing nothing to boost the health and vitality of the skin, thus letting aging take its toll

Much better to use nourishing ingredients that help keep your skin hydrated naturally! (Speaking of, check out my new skin care line here!)

To avoid this ingredient, stay away from all dimethicone and similar ingredients like cyclomethicone, dimethiconol, and phenyl trimethicone.

What do you think of dimethicone? Has it caused you to break out? Please share.

Source

Fowler JF Jr., “Efficacy of a skin-protective foam in the treatment of chronic hand dermatitis,” Am J Contact Derm 2000 Sep; 11(3):165-9. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11012005?dopt=Abstract.

Dimethicone. Truth in Aging. January 1, 2006. http://www.truthinaging.com/ingredients/dimethicone.

Material Safety Data Sheet, Poly(dimethylsiloxane), May 14, 1999. http://fscimage.fishersci.com/msds/95130.htm.

Photo courtesy kisluvkis via Flickr.com.

If a substance makes it onto this list, it doesn’t mean that if you’re exposed, you’ll immediately get cancer. There are many factors involved, including how much of the substance you’re exposed to and for how long, your own susceptibility to it, and your other risk factors.

Two of the new additions are particularly concerning because they’re present in many of our everyday products: formaldehyde and styrene. A third is also of concern to those of us trying to enjoy more natural products—aristolochic acids, which are found in some herbal products used for the treatment of arthritis and gout.

Here’s more on these three carcinogens and how you can avoid them. To peruse the rest of the list of 240, check out the American Cancer Society’s page on the topic.

Formaldehyde: Known to Cause Cancer

I’ve posted about this one several times before, and it’s one of my Ingredients to Avoid. Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable, strong smelling chemical that used to be classified as “reasonably anticipated to cause cancer,” but that was changed when scientists found that the gas caused nasal cancer in rats. This chemical is found in resins, coating, plastics, wood products, some eyelash glues, nail polishes, cigarettes, and hair-straightening products. We’re also exposed to it through automobile emissions, kerosene heaters, and unfortunately, it can also exist as a by-product in some personal care products. Studies have linked it with blood and lymphatic cancers, as well as to Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

“Formaldehyde is probably the most ubiquitous of the new chemicals listed,” said John Bucher, Ph.D., associate director of the National Toxicology Program. “You’ll run into it in more places than the others, and it’s more toxic at lower concentrations.”

To avoid this one: Ask about formaldehyde content before purchasing pressed-wood products. Look for ones labeled ultra-low-emitting-formaldehyde (ULEF), no-added-formaldehyde (NAF), or California Air Resources Board (CARB). Read labels and avoid “formalin” and “methyl aldehyde,” which can release formaldehyde, as well as ureas, DMDM-hydantoin, quaterniums, methenamine, polyoxyethylene, and sodium hydroxymethylglycinate. Purchase organic and natural personal care products, and try to reduce your exposure to pollution and car exhaust. Use formaldehyde-reducing houseplants.

Aristolochic Acid: Known to Cause Cancer

This is a botanical contaminant found in some herbal products used to treat arthritis and gout. It’s mainly found in the plant “Aristolochia,” but can also be present in other plants. In 2001, the FDA advised against the use of products that might contain these acids, but products can still be purchased over the Internet. High amounts of artistolochic acid (AA) has been linked with bladder and upper urinary tract cancers among people with kidney or renal disease. According to a study published in 2002, “AA is a powerful nephrotoxic and carcinogenic substance” and “all products containing botanicals known to or suspected of containing AA should be banned from the market worldwide.”

To avoid this one: Stay away from all AA products.

Styrene: Reasonably Anticipated to Cause Cancer

Styrene is a petroleum by-product also known as “vinyl benzene.” A colorless, oily liquid, it’s used in rubber, plastic, shower stalls and bathtubs, boats, insulation, fiberglass, pipes, automobile parts, cigarette smoke, food containers like Styrofoam coffee cups and takeout containers, and carpet backing. It’s also released by building materials and tobacco smoke. This chemical has long been listed as a probable carcinogen, and has been linked to lymphoma.

To avoid this one: Don’t smoke, and avoid Styrofoam cups and containers—swap to a stainless steel coffee mug and ask for alternative takeout boxes. When using plastic eating utensils, avoid styrene-containing plates and cups and look for eco-friendly alternatives.

Do you avoid these three carcinogens? Tell us how.

Sources:

“12^th Report on Carcinogens,” U. S. Department of Health and Human Services, June 10, 2011. http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/?objectid=03C9AF75-E1BF-FF40-DBA9EC0928DF8B15.

Arit VM, et al., “Aristolochic Acid as a Probably Human Cancer Hazard in Herbal Remedies: A Review,” Mutagenesis, 2002 Jul; 17(4):265-77. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12110620.

Leah Zerbe, “5 Ways to Avoid Exposure to ‘New” Cancer Causers,” Rodale, June 13, 2011. http://www.rodale.com/carcinogens-list.

Photo courtesy Pixel Helix Photography via Flickr.com.

Repeated Toxic Alerts Reached Government Ears

You may have seen my posts on lead in lipstick, mercury in mascara, formaldehyde in personal care products, and phthalates in hair spray and baby lotion. These issues and more have prompted the House Energy and Commerce Committee in Washington, D. C. to convene a Congressional hearing on the topic of cosmetics safety.

During the hearing, members of Congress listened as witnesses came forward to voice their concerns about an industry that has seen little change in regulation since 1938. Manufacturers and the FDA are operating under laws that were set back when research on chemical ingredients was new. We know so much more now about how certain ingredients may impact human health, and while we must continue to conduct research, the results so far have indicated we need to be more cautious about what we’re bringing into our homes and putting on our bodies.

Members of Congress Speaking Out

The hearing was announced after 50 businesses and 50 environmental groups sent a letter to the Energy and Commerce Committee urging them to change regulations and phase out ingredients linked to cancer and hormone disruption. They also called for full disclosure of ingredients on labels including those chemicals used to make fragrances, as well as flavorings, colorants, and ingredients in salon products.

Some members of Congress are advocating for stricter regulations when it comes to cosmetics safety. According to Lisa Archer, director of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, “Despite the heavy industry influence, safe cosmetics champions Reps. Jan Schakowsky (D–IL) and Ed Markey (D–MA) gave voice to the strong science supporting concerns about toxic chemicals in cosmetics and were staunch advocates for the public health, worker safety, and consumers’ right to know.”

Three Bills to Consider

Concerned members of Congress have already drawn up three bills that are currently circulating through the legislative offices. These include:

1. The Safe Cosmetics Act by Schakowsky, Markey, and Rep. Tammy Baldwin (D–WI)
2. A new bill introduced March 27, 2012, by Reps. Frank Pallone (D–NJ) and John Dingle (D–WI)
3. A third proposal by the Personal Care Products Council—which seeks to have the FDA codify into law decisions made by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Panel about ingredient safety

This hearing is a move in the right direction. Stay tuned to see what comes of it. Let’s hope it results in meaningful, productive change that will improve the health of us all!

Have you been following this hearing? Have any comments? Please share!

Photo courtesy chucka_nc via Flickr.com.

Florida Considering a Ban

The Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FTL) in Florida may soon no longer have the full body scanners. Broward County, where the airport is located, is considering a measure that would ban the devices.

Mayor John Rodstrom feels the scanners pose potential health risks to flyers. “The Europeans have outlawed them,” he said. “I don’t think they do things lightly, and I want to know if our flying public is safe.”

The Mayor can’t tell the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) to remove the scanners, but he and other Broward commissioners want to ask the TSA to stop using those that emit radiation. Whether or not they will listen is another matter. So far, the agency is sticking with their belief that the scanners are safe, even though the early results from some studies suggest that the type of scanner used at Broward’s airport has been linked to a small number of cancer cases.

EU Has Already Banned X-Ray Scanners

Mr. Rodstrom began to be concerned after he heard about the EU ban, which occurred on November 14, 2011. The European Commission issued new guidelines for the use of body scanners at European airports, allowing only those that use millimeter wave technology, a type of low-energy radio wave that does not cause radioactive damage and so far has not been linked to cancer. The backscatter X-ray variety used in the U.S. is off limits there now due to safety concerns. The German government, as well, halted the roll out of American body imaging scanners after the Interior Minister said the devices sound too many false alarms.

X-ray body scanners, which use backscatter ionized radiation technology, emit enough radiation to theoretically damage DNA and cause cancer. The studies on the topic are limited so far, but do suggest a possibility of increasing the risk for passengers. According to a PBS NewsHour story on X-ray body scanners, the FDA raised concerns about the technology as far back as 1998. Yet according to business magazine “Forbes,” the TSA plans to deploy over 1,000 backscatter and millimeter-wave scanners by the end of 2012.

My Take Away

What does this mean for those of us having to make the choice between scanners and pat-downs? One thing you can do is ask—is the scanner the backscatter X-ray type, which has been linked to cancer, or the millimeter wave, which has not? (Note: the millimeter wave scanner looks like a round glass booth.) Then it’s up to you to decide what you feel most comfortable with.

As to whether or not the U.S. would ever follow the EU’s lead, right now it looks unlikely. I wasn’t able to find out yet what happened in Florida, and there’s no news of a slow-down of the TSA’s deployment of the scanners across the nation. If you feel strongly about the subject, I would say to write your Congressmen and spread the word. Right now, the X-ray scanner is used at the Los Angeles International Airport, John F. Kennedy in New York, and Chicago’s O’Hare, among others, while the millimeter-wave scanner is used in San Franciso, Atlanta, and Dallas, and others.

What do you think about the increase in X-ray scanners in airports? Please add your opinion.

Sources:

“Local Mayer Wants Ban on Airport Body Scanners,” 7 News WSVN, December 13, 2011. http://www.wsvn.com/news/articles/local/21006143113012/local-mayor-wants-ban-on-airport-body-scanners/.

Brittany Wallman, “Broward Mulls Request to Ban Body Scanners at Airport,” Sun Sentinel December 13, 2011. http://articles.sun-sentinel.com/2011-12-13/news/fl-airport-scanners-halt-20111211_1_body-scanners-backscatter-technology-backscatter-scanners.

Michael Grabell, “U.S. Government Glossed Over Cancer Concerns as it Rolled Out Airport X-Ray Scanners,” PBS NewsHour in conjunction with ProPublica November 1, 2011. http://www.propublica.org/article/u.s.-government-glossed-over-cancer-concerns-as-it-rolled-out-airport-x-ray.

David DiSalvo, “Europe Bans Airport Body Scanners for ‘Health and Safety’ Concerns,” Forbes November 15, 2011. http://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2011/11/15/europe-bans-airport-body-scanners-over-health-and-safety-concerns/.

“The U.S. Airport Full Body Scanners Too Unreliable to Use, Germany Says,” ABC News September 1, 2011. http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/us-airport-full-body-scanners-unreliable-germany/story?id=14428581#.Tyc5W3bCMYY.

Photo courtesy dawning.ca via Flickr.com.

Studies have shown that newborns may be born with several chemicals already in their blood, including fragrances and bisphenol-A (BPA). At least some of these chemicals are believed to come from daily personal care products. As your doctor has probably already told you, when you’re pregnant, what you eat as well as what you apply to your skin and hair could end up in your bloodstream, where it can affect your unborn child. Since babies are so tiny and vulnerable, even small amounts of chemicals are more dangerous to them.

To protect yourself and your unborn or breastfeeding child, avoid any products with the following ingredients.

1. Read my ingredients to avoid. I’ve already put up a list of 24 ingredients to avoid for anyone who’s concerned about reducing their toxic exposure and their risk of health problems. This list is even more important for women of childbearing age, and includes key toxins to avoid during pregnancy like formaldehyde, parabens, petroleum products, lead, 1,4-dioxane, phthalates, and aluminum.
2. Vitamin A and retinoids. Derivatives of vitamin A have long been used in skin care products because of their ability to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. High doses of vitamin A taken orally, however, have been shown to be potentially harmful to a fetus. According to the March of Dimes, women who consume more than the recommended amount of vitamin A in early pregnancy doubled their risk of having a child born with birth defects. Anti-acne medication isotretinoin is also known to increase the risk of birth defects. So far, however, studies have not shown that topical retinoids cause any harm to an unborn baby. Doctors advise women, however, to be on the cautious side, and avoid ingredients like retin-A, retinoic acid, retinol, retinyl linoleate, retinyl palmitate, Renova, Differin (adapelene), and Tazorac and avage (tazarotene). Watch out for these ingredients in your sunscreens as well!
3. Salicylic acid. It’s great for reducing acne outbreaks, but the chemical can bore deep into the skin, and high doses of the oral form have shown to lead to pregnancy complications. The strongest concern is related to face and body peels that contain the ingredient, as these treatments increase absorption. Most doctors will advise caution, suggest you avoid these types of peels, and reduce or avoid salicylic acid in toners and moisturizers. (Also watch for beta hydroxy acid and BHA.) If you struggle with acne, ask your obstetrician how to safely treat it, and make sure your skin care products are non-clogging.
4. Chemical sunscreens. I’ve highlighted the potential dangers of chemical sunscreens in a former post. A study performed at the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine found that one such sunscreen—oxybenzone—was linked to low birth weight in baby girls who mothers were exposed during pregnancy. Avobenzone can also be absorbed into the skin where it may cause free radical damage. Choose a safe sunblock like zinc oxide during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
5. Acids and benzoyl peroxide. Scientists haven’t yet studied some ingredients to determine whether or not they may be harmful to an unborn child. These include many exfoliating acids, like glycolic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, and even topical vitamin C, as well as acne-fighting benzoyl peroxide. Some doctors feel these are safe, and some are extra cautious. If you’re suffering from a difficult skin condition, talk to your doctor about your best approach to treatment.

Above all, don’t panic! If you’ve been using one of these ingredients and didn’t realize the potential health hazards, it’s okay. Just stop using it. Problems are typically rare and rely on repeated exposure. The best approach to protect the health of your baby is to try to reduce your toxic exposure to chemicals in every way that you can, through your food, personal care items, and environment.

Are you a pregnant woman concerned about her toxic exposure? Share your tips for safe skin care.

Sources:

“CDC: Americans Carry ‘Body Burden’ of Toxic Sunscreen Chemical: Separate Study Links Sunscreen Chemical to Low Birth Weight in Baby Girls,” Environmental Working Group press release, March 25, 2008, http://www.ewg.org/release/cdc-americans-carry-body-burden-toxic-sunscreen-chemical.

Photo courtesy ChristineLouiseFerguson via Flickr.com.

What are Eyelash Extensions?

Eyelash extensions are single, semi-permanent hairs that are glued on your own eyelashes to make them look longer and thicker. Most are made from synthetic fibers. How long they last depends on the type of adhesives used and the rate of your own eyelash growth—from a couple weeks to a couple months with touch-ups.

How Are They Applied?

Eyelash extensions are applied one-by-one to your real eyelashes using a waterproof, black adhesive. There are clear glues available also, but black is the most popular because it gives the illusion that you’ve used mascara.

The adhesives used in eyelash extensions vary from medical or pharmaceutical grade (non-irritating and fume-free) to glues that dry faster and last longer, but may be more irritating.

Formaldehyde in Most Adhesives

If you’re considering eyelash extensions, it’s important to check with the salon (or with the manufacturer) to find out what type of adhesive is used. Medical or pharmaceutical grade is highly recommended, which is the same type of adhesive used in surgical procedures.

Unfortunately, studies have found that many of the current adhesives used for extensions—including those that come with at-home kits—have formaldehyde in them. This can cause dermatitis in sensitive people, and the fumes can cause eye irritation. In fact, you’ll find that may people who have gotten extensions complain about the discomfort of the glue fumes.

A brand called “NovaLash” advertises their adhesive as the first formaldehyde-free option. They explain, however, that though their testing confirms the lack of the chemical, once the adhesive is opened for use, tiny amounts of formaldehyde are produced.

Other Chemicals Used

Other chemicals used in adhesives may include ethyl-2 cyanoacrylate, which is rated a “5″ on the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database as a moderate hazard because it can be toxic to the immune system and may cause allergic reactions.

Adhesives may also contain fragrances, which are made up of undisclosed chemicals. Cheaper adhesives made in China may contain other unknown hazardous toxins. These are industrial quality adhesives that may not be approved for cosmetic procedures.

What to Look For

Considering that any eyelash adhesive may contain traces of some potentially harmful chemicals, if you’re still sold on pumping up your lashes, take the following precautions:

• Read labels. If you’re going to a salon, ask to see the product they’re using. It should be medical quality surgical glue safe for use on the eye area. (Should say “pharmaceutical grade.”)
• If the extensions are offered at a bargain price, think twice. Most likely this means the products used cost less, and therefore may be made up of potentially toxic chemicals. Again, ask to see the adhesive.
• Go to a quality salon. These are your eyes we’re talking about. Don’t skimp on price and put yourself at risk. Find a reputable, healthy salon that ensures safety. Realize that extensions can be expensive—about $200 for the initial procedure and more for touch-ups every month.
• Make sure the person putting on your extensions has the proper hands-on training. Ask for proof of the training.

Have you found a safer eyelash extension alternative? Please share your tips.

Sources:

“Consumer Protection Board Discovers Formaldehyde in Eyelash Adhesive,” Eyelash Extension, Adhesive and Glue Information, July 13, 2005. http://eyelashadhesive.org/.

Flirtatioius Lash, NovaLash. http://www.flirtatiouslash.com/novalash.php.

“The Soaring Popularity and Dangers of Eyelash Extensions,” Evoke Elegance, March 14, 2011. http://blog.evokeelegance.com/2011/03/soaring-popularity-dangers-of-eyelash.html.

“Health and Safety of Eyelash Extensions,” Luxury Lash Lounge. http://www.luxurylashlounge.com/health/index.html.

Photo courtesy HonoluluEyelashStudio via Flickr.com.

Health Dangers of Indoor Air Pollution

Indoor air pollution can cause a lot of problems, including exacerbating the severity of asthma symptoms among adults and children, increasing the occurrence and severity of headaches and respiratory symptoms, and causing fatigue and dizziness. Studies by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) consistently rank indoor air pollution as among the top five environmental threats to public health. The United Nations Development Program estimated in 1998 that more than two million people die each year due to toxic indoor air.

Opening a window once in awhile, investing in a quality air purifier, dusting and vacuuming often, keeping up with the cleaning, and avoiding pollutants like smoke from candles and cigarettes, can all help improve indoor air quality. When it’s cold outside, however, and difficult to air things out, there are other items that can help reduce the toxins in your household air—houseplants!

The Magic of Houseplants

Researchers from Pennsylvania State University found that common houseplants like the spider plant, snake plant, and golden pothos reduced ozone levels. NASA also conducted a similar study and found that common houseplants can remove several key pollutants associated with indoor air pollution. In fact, NASA was so impressed that they’re going to launch some plants into space as part of the biological life support system aboard  future orbiting space stations.

What Plants Clean Out What Chemicals

According to the NASA study, some of the top plants most effective at cleaning out potentially hazardous chemicals like formaldehyde (found in insulation, particle board, and consumer paper products), benzene (found in inks, oils, paints, plastics, and rubber), and carbon monoxide from the air include the areca palm (also called the butterfly palm), the lady palm, bamboo palm, rubber plant, philodendron, dracaena “Janet Craig,” and the Boston fern.

Alive magazine published a recent article about houseplants and indoor pollution, and the following chart comes from that article, which you may read in depth here. Give it a try—you may find that a few more plants makes your air a lot more pleasant to breathe.

Have you increased the number of houseplants in your home to help clean out the air? Please share your experiences.

Sources:

“It’s Winter: Beware the Indoor Air Pollution,” Public Health News Center, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, January 26, 2005. http://www.jhsph.edu/publichealthnews/articles/2005/buckley_indoor_air.html.

Johns Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health. “Indoor Air Pollution Increases Asthma Symptoms, Study Suggests.” ScienceDaily, 19 Feb. 2009. Web. 11 Jan. 2012.

Illinois Department of Public Health Guidelines for Indoor Air Quality, Environmental Health Fact Sheet, Illinois Department of Public Health. http://www.idph.state.il.us/envhealth/factsheets/indoorairqualityguide_fs.htm.

American Society for Horticultural Science. “Houseplants Cut Indoor Ozone.” ScienceDaily, 8 Sep. 2009. Web. 11 Jan. 2012.

“NASA Study House Plants Clean Air,” Zone 10, The Plant & Garden Zone for Homeowners. http://www.zone10.com/nasa-study-house-plants-clean-air.html.

Will Richter, “The Best Holiday Houseplants,” Alive, http://www.alive.com/articles/view/23316/the_best_holiday_houseplants.

Greg Seaman, “The Top 10 Plants for Removing Indoor Toxins,” EarthEasy, May 13, 2009. http://eartheasy.com/blog/2009/05/the-top-10-plants-for-removing-indoor-toxins/.

Photo courtesy Chiot’s Run via Flickr.com.

What Researchers Found

The first is bisphenol A (BPA), that hardening chemical used to make plastics that I’ve talked about in several previous posts. It’s in our water bottles and our canned foods and on shopping receipts and some of our children’s toys and has been linked with certain cancers and developmental problems in children. In the study, the scientists took noncancerous breast cells from high-risk patients, grew them in the lab, then exposed them to BPA. After the exposure, the noncancerous cells started acting like cancer cells. The researchers felt the study provided additional evidence that chemicals that act as estrogen-disruptors (like BPA) may play a role in the development of breast cancer.

Tamoxifen is designed to slow the growth of breast cancer cells and ultimately cause their death, but when it was introduced to the chemical-exposed cells, they were not affected and kept growing.

The same thing happened when the cells were exposed to methylparaben, a type of preservative commonly used in thousands of personal care products. When the non-cancerous cells were exposed to methylparaben, they started acting like cancerous cells, and did not slow down when exposed to Tamoxifen. What was especially disconcerting was that these two hormone-disrupting chemicals were found to be even better at blocking Tamoxifen’s effectiveness than naturally produced estrogen.

Researchers Comment on the Findings

According to Dr. William Goodson, lead author of the study, “Since most breast cancers are driven by the hormone estrogen, the bulk of the drugs used to treat breast cancer are designed to knock down estrogen. BPA and methyparaben not only mimic estrogen’s ability to drive cancer, but appear to be even better than the natural hormone in bypassing the ability of drugs to treat it.”

Dr. Mhel Kavanaugh-Lynch, director of the California Breast Cancer Research Program, added, “We have a lot of information that makes these endocrine disruptors appear to be bad things to be exposed to, but there are very few, if any, studies that show a direct causal link.”

What Women Can Do

The takeaway from this study, as far as I can tell, is to stay away from these two chemicals as much as possible. They’re very widely used, so you may not be able to completely eliminate them from your life, but you can definitely cut down your exposure. Try these tips, and if you’re on Tamoxifen or other treatments for breast cancer, be especially careful!

• Use a stainless steel water bottle and stay away from plastic water bottles.
• Buy frozen, boxed, and glass-stored foods instead of those in cans. Some companies are going “BPA-free,” so check the labels on your favorite canned goods.
• Don’t microwave in plastic containers, especially old ones that have been exposed to high temps several times. Use glass and porcelain containers instead.
• Always wash your hands before eating.
• Take my Ingredients to Avoid list with you when you shop for personal care products, and avoid those that have “paraben” in the ingredient list, whether it’s methylparaben or other types of parabens.

What do you think about this study? Will you be changing your habits?

Sources

William H. Goodson, et al., “Activation of the mTOR Pathway by Low Levels of Xenoestrogens in Breast Epithelial Cells from High-Risk Women,” Carcinogenesis 32(11): 1724-1733 (November 2011). http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3204351/.

Photo courtesy Terra Nova Foundation via Flickr.com.

Though science can’t yet tell us if eating hot dogs increases the risk for cancer, for example, they can tell us that some ingredients in hot dogs may be carcinogenic. Here are my top ten foods to stay away from for that reason alone.

1.  Potato chips and French fries. According to the National Cancer Institute, acrylamide is a chemical used for industrial purposes that is found in many foods, with particularly high levels in some potato chips, French fries, and other foods cooked at high temperatures. (Baking, roasting, and frying can all produce acrylamide.) Based on animal studies, acrylamide is considered a probable human carcinogen. Though the Environmental Protection Agency regulates levels of acrylamide in drinking water, there are currently no guidelines on acrylamide in food itself. Boiled potatoes have been found to be free of acrylamide.

2.  Hot dogs and deli meats. Many of these contain nitrites as preservatives, which during the cooking process, can form carcinogenic N-nitroso compounds. These compounds have been associated with several different cancers. One study published in Cancer Causes & Control, for example, found that children eating more than 12 hot dogs a month had nine times the normal risk of developing childhood leukemia. Any cured meat may contain nitrites, including lunch meats, bacon, ham, and even cured fish. And so far, “organic” and “natural” hot dogs aren’t much better—an article in The New York Times noted they often contain nitrites, too.

3.  Canned foods. Cans used to store foods are often coated in a type of plastic that’s made with bisphenol-A (BPA), a chemical that’s been linked to breast cancer and prostate cancer because of its hormone-altering capabilities. Though not labeled a carcinogen on its own, evidence suggests that it increases cancer susceptibility through changes to DNA. A recent study found that people who ate canned soup for five days straight saw their urinary levels of BPA spike 1,200 percent compared to those who ate fresh soup. Buy foods in boxes, jars, and BPA-free cans.

4.  Chicken and apple juice. Recent studies have found both chicken and apple juice sold in the U.S. can contain small levels of arsenic, which has been linked to skin, lung, and bladder cancer. Some apple juices were found to contain more than the amount deemed safe in drinking water. The good news is that as a result of an FDA study on chicken, the manufacturer of the chicken feed laced with arsenic said it would pull the ingredient off the market. The debate on juice is still ongoing. Carefully research the brands you buy.

5.  Restaurant grilled or pan-fried chicken. A study published in Nutrition and Cancer found that when 100 samples of grilled chicken from seven popular chain restaurants contained PhIP, a known human carcinogen. The restaurants where the samples were obtained included Applebee’s, Burger King, Chick-fil-A, Chili’s, McDonald’s, Outback, and T.G.I. Friday’s—and watch out. Some of the samples tested included the grilled chicken that’s used on salads.

6.  Donuts, rolls, and buns. Most of these are made from white flour, and white flour may contain potassium bromate, a food additive used in the bread-making process that has been found to be carcinogenic in animal studies. The Center for Science in the Public Interest has petitioned the FDA to prohibit the use of potassium bromate, but so far it is not restricted in the U.S. Donuts are also full of sugar and trans fats, so either cut them out completely, or eat sparingly. Look for “potassium bromate” or “bromated flour” on the ingredient label. Brands like Orowheat, Entenmann’s, Pepperidge Farm, and Pillsbury have switched to bromate-free processes. Supermarket chains like Giant, Jewel, Ralph’s, and Von’s also do not use bromate.

Do you have tips for avoiding carcinogens in food? Please share!

Sources

National Cancer Institute Fact Sheet, “Acrylamide in Food and Cancer Risk.” http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/acrylamide-in-food.

Peters J, et al ” Processed meats and risk of childhood leukemia (California, USA)” Cancer Causes & Control 5: 195-202, 1994.

William Neuman, “What’s Inside the Bun?” The New York Times, July 1, 2011. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/07/02/business/02hotdog.html.

Ruth A. Keri, et al., “An Evaluation of Evidence for the Carcinogenic Activity of Bisphenol A,” Reprod. Toxicol, 2007; 24(2): 240-252. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2442886/.

Jenny L. Carwile, et al. “Canned Soup Consumption and Urinary Bisphenol A: A Randomized Crossover Trial.” The Journal of the American Medical Association, November 23/30, 2011, Vol. 306, No. 20, pp 2187-2283. http://jama.ama-assn.org/content/306/20/2218.2.short.

Kristie M. Sullivan, et al., “Detection of PhIP in Grilled Chicken Entrees at Popular Chain Restaurants Throughout California.” Nutrition and Cancer Volume 60, Issue 5, 2008. http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/01635580801956519.

Y Kurokawa, et al., “Toxicity and Carcinogenicity of Potassium Bromate—a New Renal Carcinogen,” Environ Health Perspect. 1990 July; 87: 309-335. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1567851/.

Photo courtesy stu_spivack via Flickr.com.

1. Acrylamides. These are chemical compounds that can damage the nervous system and have shown to be carcinogenic in animal studies. The tricky part is that these chemicals don’t show up on the ingredient list. The Swedish National Food Administration has stated that they can be found in baked and fried starchy foods, like potato chips and cookies. Best bet: keep your intake of these foods to a minimum, and purchase from brands dedicated to using healthy ingredients and cooking processes.

2. Artificially colored foods. I’m talking about things like candy, gelatin, and fruit snacks that are colored with artificial chemicals like blue 1 and 2, red 3 and yellow 6. These have been linked in animal studies to cancer.

3. Aspartame. If you think you’re saving your waist line by drinking diet drinks, beware—many have this artificial sweetener, which has been linked to headaches, dizziness, nausea, depression, fatigue, and sleeping problems. Early science has also raised concern about potential brain problems, like memory loss and seizures, resulting from excess aspartame.

4. Bisphenol-A (BPA). I’ve posted about this one before. Used to make plastics, it can seep into food from both plastic and can containers, and it’s linked with hormone disruption.

5. High fructose corn syrup. The real danger of this ingredient is that it’s in absolutely everything, from cookies and cakes to ketchup, yogurt, and bread. Researchers suggest it could have a lot to do with our nation’s expanding waistlines. In addition, some studies suggest that the body metabolizes it differently than regular sugar, leaving us less satisfied and more likely to eat more. Oh, and did I mention it’s often contaminated with mercury?

6. Partially hydrogenated oils. This is where those dangerous trans fats come from. Oils are modified by chemicals to make them stable at room temperature—and to increase shelf-life—which changes their overall chemical makeup, and makes them more likely to clog arteries and lead to heart problems. You’ll see them listed on the ingredient decks of chips, cookies, pastries, and more.

7. Pesticides. These chemicals are designed to kill bugs, but they can also seriously affect our health. Pesticides have been linked with brain and nervous disorders, and research shows that they can cause brain cancers in children. Buy organic produce when you can—one study found that when kids were switched to organic produce, the pesticide levels in their urine dropped overnight and stayed low.

8. Phosphoric acid. Did your mother ever tell you that soda would rot your teeth? If so, she was right, as it comes with this ingredient, which is literally an acid that dissolves the carbon dioxide in the soda. Did you know that it’s also used to clean the rust off of metals?

9. Sodium nitrite. It’s best to stay away from anything with the word “nitrite.” These are carcinogens you’ll find in some lunch meats and other processed meats like bacon, pepperoni, sausage, and hot dogs. Look for the words “nitrite-free” on your processed meats, or better yet, avoid them completely.

10. Sugar. A little sugar won’t hurt you. The problem is that it’s everywhere in our food supply, not just as sugar, but as corn syrup, corn syrup solids, and more. Refined sugar is stripped of all the good stuff and serves no good purpose in the body, but it does contribute to weight gain and may encourage diabetes and mood disorders. Cut back when you can, and choose stevia and agave as more nutritious sweetening options.

Have you changed your shopping habits to avoid toxins in food? Please share your tips.

Photo courtesy jazzijava via Flickr.com.

What is the thyroid?

The thyroid gland, located in the front part of the neck, produces hormones that are responsible for regulating metabolism, growth and development, and organ function. If it’s overactive, it releases too much hormone, causing the body to use up energy faster than it should, which may result in irritability, fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and muscle weakness (hyperthyroidism). If it’s underactive, it produces too little hormone, and the body uses energy more slowly, which may result in weight gain and depression (hypothyroidism). Thyroid cancer, though highly survivable, often requires surgery.

The Toxic Chemicals Linked to Thyroid Problems

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), thyroid cancer is one of the few types of cancer that’s on the rise, with the number of people diagnosed twice what it was in 1990. Though the organization attributes the increase partly to the use of thyroid ultrasound, which can detect small potential tumors, they admit that doesn’t fully explain the increase.

Science is finding that the hormones in the human body are particularly sensitive to toxic chemicals. Just like BPA (a chemical used in the manufacturing of plastics) can alter hormone function, other chemicals have been found to increase risk of thyroid problems.

Pesticides. The American Journal of Epidemiology published a study in 2010 that showed that women married to men who used pesticides in their daily work were at a much higher risk of developing thyroid disease than women in non-agricultural areas. The nonprofit group Beyond Pesticides warns that about 60 percent of pesticides used today may affect the thyroid gland’s production of hormones.

Perchlorate. According to a study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, babies born with elevated levels of thyroid stimulating hormone—an indicator of thyroid disease—may have been affected by small amounts of perchlorate in the mother’s drinking water. Perchlorate is a chemical used to manufacture rockets, missiles, and fireworks. It may contaminate drinking water, crops irrigated by contaminated water, and milk and milk products from cows that graze on contaminated grasses. In 2004, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that levels of perchlorate in milk coming from California cows exceeded safety standards. In 2007, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notified Congress of study results showing widespread human exposure, higher levels in children, and a connection between urine perchlorate levels and thyroid hormone levels.

Food colorings. Red 3 was recognized in 1990 by the FDA as a thyroid carcinogen in animals—it’s banned in cosmetics and externally applied drugs, but it’s still permitted in ingested drugs and foods.

Teflon. The EWG found that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a chemical used to make Teflon, food wrappers, and other products, may affect thyroid function even at moderate levels of exposure. A recent study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that higher concentrations of PFOA are associated with current thyroid disease in the U.S. general adult population.

Phthalates, dioxins, and flame retardants: Though studies are still inconclusive on these chemicals, they have all been linked with thyroid disruption, and according to a study published in the European Journal of Endocrinology, “There is growing evidence that environmental chemicals can disrupt endocrine systems….Even small changes in thyroid homeostatis may adversely affect human health, and especially fetal neurological development may be vulnerable.”

Protect Yourself!

How can you protect yourself? Keep making all the changes we talk about on this blog. Buy organic to reduce your exposure to pesticides, cook in pans not coated by Teflon, avoid food colorings (particularly red), filter your drinking water, and take my Ingredients to Avoid list with you shopping for personal care products. With a little extra care, you can help reduce your toxic exposure and increase your odds of staying healthy and happy.

Do you have some tips for keeping the thyroid healthy? Please share.

Sources

Whitney S. Goldner, et al., “Pesticide Use and Thyroid Disease Among Women in the Agricultural Health Study,” Am. J. Epidemiol. (2010) 171 (4): 455-464. http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/content/171/4/455.abstract.

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2000; 42: 777

CDC Congressional Testimony, “Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Environment and Hazardous Materials, United States House of Representatives, CDC’s Perchlorate Biomonitoring Activities and Study Results,” April 25, 2007. http://www.cdc.gov/washington/testimony/2007/t20070425a.htm.

Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI), “Food Dyes: A Rainbow of Risks.” http://www.cspinet.org/new/pdf/food-dyes-rainbow-of-risks.pdf.

Environmental Working Group, “Major Study of Teflon Chemical in People Suggest Harm to Immune System, Liver, Thyroid,” Press Release May 13, 2008. http://www.ewg.org/release/major-study-teflon-chemical-people-suggests-harm-immune-system-liver-thyroid.

Melzer D., et al., “Association Between Serum Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) and Thyroid Disease in the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey,” Environ Health Perspect. 2010 May; 118(5): 686-92. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20089479.

Malene Boas, et al., “Environmental Chemicals and Thyroid Function,” European Journal of Endocrinology (2006) 154: 599-611. http://www.eje.org/content/154/5/599.full.pdf.

Photo courtesy SabrinaSako via Flickr.com.

You’re in luck! I’ve got some great ideas for you. Check out this list of 10 and see if any of them fit what you’re looking for. Then be sure to write in and tell me about how the gift was received!

1. When Cancer Hits. Okay, it’s the obvious one and you knew I had to mention it, so here it is—my book, When Cancer Hits. Seriously, I’ve gotten some great feedback from readers, and those who got it after their cancer treatments were over say they wished they had it during treatment. It’s safe, it’s inexpensive, and it has lots of great tips inside!

2. Spa treatments. Ask anyone living with cancer—or who has survived cancer, for that matter—what really feels good, and they’re likely to say something like a massage, reflexology, or a relaxing facial. Why not get them a gift certificate to the spa? Just make sure you choose one that has people trained in oncology esthetics. Here’s a great list of licensed oncology estheticians near you.

3. Sable’s food bars. These were developed with feedback from actual cancer patients. You can take them with you, and they come in several great flavors. Easily digestible and full of nutrients, Sable’s bars are something your loved one may be able to eat when not much else sounds appetizing.

4. Guided meditations. I don’t know if your friend has tried meditation, but even if he or she hasn’t, the CDs from Belleruth Naparstek’s “Health Journeys” can be extremely relaxing and stress-relieving. My father used them all the time during his cancer battle and I love the general wellness one.

5. Comfy pajamas, robes, and slippers. If you know someone who’s going through chemotherapy or radiation, they will absolutely love these. Look for PJ’s that have elastic waists, and slippers with rubber soles to help prevent falls. For those suffering night sweats, Dry Babe absorbent PJ’s are really helpful.

6. Soft cotton gloves. Those living with cancer are more at risk from exposure to the sun, to toxic chemicals, and to sharp objects. They are also likely to have dry hands. Cotton gloves can be worn at night to seal in moisturizer, and during the day to protect the hands from injury. Gardening gloves shield against the elements, and household gloves protect against excess water—though be cautious with rubber gloves as they can seal in heat, making hand and foot syndrome worse.

7. Argan oil. Cancer patients and survivors suffer from extremely dry skin. Kahina Giving Beauty 100% Organic Argan Oil is the perfect moisturizer. Free of synthetics, it nurtures and repairs without harsh chemicals, yet it has only one ingredient!

8. Alcohol-free mouthwashes and sulfate-free toothpastes. Alcohol is harsh and irritating, especially to mouths that are plagued with sores. Toothpastes with sodium laureth sulfate are known to increase the risk of mouth ulcers. Look for safer brands like Vitacare.

9. Scent-free products. Synthetic fragrances can contain hundreds of chemicals not listed on the label. Some of these may be harsh or irritating to sensitive skin. Those living with cancer may also find some fragrances nauseating. Look for quality fragrance-free personal care products. A basket full of fragrance-free items makes a great gift! Just make sure you read the labels for other potentially harmful chemicals and stay away from my Ingredients to Avoid.

10. Eyebrow stencils. People living with cancer may lose their hair not only on their heads, but over their eyes as well. If you’ve never drawn on eyebrows before, you may find the task really difficult. Anastasia has the perfect eyebrow kit, and Jane Irdale includes shadows, wax and brushes.

Do you have some great safe gift ideas for the holidays? Let us know!

Photo courtesy Pedal Power CT via Flickr.com.

Why Should We Be Concerned About Chemicals in Hair Dyes?

It comes down to accumulated toxic exposure. As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, hair dyes contain quaternium-15, which can release formaldehyde; phenylenediamine (PPD), which may be carcinogenic; and alkylphenol ethoxylates (APEs), potential hormone disruptors. Though studies remain inconclusive overall, many have indicated that some ingredients in hair dyes can cause cancer, particularly for those who are exposed a lot, like hair dressers and stylists.

We also need to be cautious of what we apply to the scalp because it can absorb potentially harmful chemicals and transmit them into the bloodstream. A study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, for example, states, “Several studies suggest that toxic chemicals in hair products may be absorbed through the scalp in sufficient amounts to increase the risks of adverse health affects in women….”

What’s Safe and What’s Not?

If you talk to a hair stylist about the safest method of hair coloring, most likely he or she would tell you to avoid coloring altogether. To change the color of your hair requires a chemical reaction, so it’s difficult to completely avoid any chemical exposure. There are some more natural brands of hair coloring out there, but the actual chemical difference is slight—perhaps one molecule removed from full-blown ammonia, for example. So all in all, there’s just not a 100% safe hair color out there.

The other issue is that many natural hair dyes have not received the best reviews as far as color matching and consistent results. They may have fewer harmful ingredients, but you may not be as happy with the results. This is where you must make a decision—how much risk are you comfortable taking? If you’re healthy with no auto-immune diseases or chemical sensitivities, you may feel okay about using a regular brand once in awhile. If you’re going through cancer, or if you have sensitive skin, allergies, or chemical sensitivities, you may feel differently.

Some brands may have fewer potentially harmful ingredients than others, however, and may help lower your exposure. The FDA does not regulate hair dye ingredients, so watch labels for things like ammonia, peroxide, PPDs, coal tar (though most dyes don’t contain this anymore), toluene and resorcinol. Some natural dyes to try include Aubrey Organics, pure Henna (though realize you can’t change the color on this one if you don’t like it), and NaturaTint.

Finding a Safe Salon

Once you decide how you want to approach your hair care, the next step is to find a stylist who will work with you. Some have absolutely no experience with less toxic dyes, and others are well educated about them. Tell your stylist you’re concerned about chemicals and that you prefer hair dyes that are ammonia-free, herbal-based, low-PPD, lead-free, toluene-free and coal-tar-free. Discuss how you can reduce the number of times you have to get a complete color, such as choosing highlights or lowlights in between appointments, or going with something that’s closer to your natural shade or a lighter shade (as dark hair dyes are the most toxic) and perhaps consider embracing your gray hair.

As for some specific salons that cater to chemical-conscious customers, try Aveda salons (their dyes are more natural but do still contain ammonia). Planet Thrive has some other great less toxic hair salon suggestions for different states around the nation.

Do you have some tips for cutting back on hair chemicals? Please share.

Sources

Cheryl Blackmore-Prince, et al., “Chemical Hair Treatments and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome Among Black Women in Central North Carolina,” American Journal of Epidemiology Vol 149(8): 712-716 (1999). http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/content/149/8/712.full.pdf

Photo courtesy Utopia Salon via Flickr.com.

Their representative wanted my help in spreading the word about “Promise Me,” the pink perfume released earlier this year by Susan G. Komen for the Cure, the nation’s largest breast cancer foundation. The bottle has a pink glow and a pink ribbon, but as I mentioned before, it also has several potentially harmful chemicals, including synthetic fragrance, benzyl salicylate, and oxybenzone.

More Chemicals Than We Thought

What I learned from BCAction is that the perfume apparently contains even more chemicals than I thought—chemicals not listed on the ingredient deck. The organization performed an independent chemical analysis of the perfume, and found a number of chemicals not listed on the packaging. Two of the most serious were:

• Galaxolide (HHCB): a synthetic musk, this ingredient has weak estrogenic activity, meaning that it has the capability of disrupting hormones.¹ In an Environmental Working Group study, researchers found that 7 out of the 10 babies tested had galaxolide or another synthetic musk (tonalide) in their blood.² Studies in the 1990s also indicated that these types of musks may break down the body’s defenses against other toxic exposures.³
• Toluene: a liquid hydrocarbon present in coal tar and petroleum, toluene is used as a solvent in products, as well as an ingredient in degreasers, lacquers, glues, and nail polishes. It’s one of my ingredients to avoid because of its potential harmful health effects. Inhalation can cause hearing and color vision loss, memory loss, light-headedness, nausea, eye and nose irritation, and tiredness. Toluene may also harm an unborn fetus.

Komen’s Reaction

BCAction contacted Komen about theses results, asking them to pull the product from the shelves. They didn’t agree to do that, stating that their research concluded the product did not elevate risk of breast cancer in humans, but they did agree to reformulate to “remove any doubt about the ingredients.” The original perfume has been discontinued, and a new one is due out in early 2012. Bottles of the old one are still available for sale, however.

Whether or not the new perfume will be safer than the old, we don’t know. The problem is that some of these questionable ingredients are still used by companies because they believe that the small amounts present in the formulation present no danger. That may be true, but we’re lacking studies on the cumulative results of daily exposure, and that’s what concerns me. Studies have shown these ingredients can remain in our bodies for unknown periods of time. Why take the risk? Why include these ingredients in a product specifically made for those who’ve been touched by breast cancer and are potentially even more susceptible to harm from toxic exposure?

The Pinkwashing Point

Think Before You Pink also points out that this product is a pink product, meant to pull on our heartstrings along with our pocketbooks so that we’ll buy more to support breast cancer research. That makes it even more disturbing that this product contains potentially harmful ingredients. As such, it’s become a part of “pinkwashing“—the practice of producing products for breast cancer that could potentially be harmful for those with breast cancer.

You can help me do something about it by joining BCAction’s “Raise a Stink!” movement to urge Komen to immediately recall Promise Me, and to pledge to prevent pinkwashing in the future. Go to BCAction’s “Take Action” center and add your letter to those that have already been sent on this issue.

Together, our voices are powerful!

Did you participate in BCAction’s “Take Action” campaign? Please share your thoughts.

Sources

1. Seinen W, Lemmen JG, Pieters RH, Verbruggen EM, Van der Burg B. (1999). AHTN and HHCB show weak estrogenic but no uterotrophic activity. Toxicol. Lett. 111, 161–168.
2. Environmental Working Group (EWG) 2009. Pollution in Minority Newborns. Available: http://www.ewg.org/minoritycordblood.
3. Luckenbach, Till; Epel, David (January 2005). “Nitromusk and Polycyclic Musk Compounds as Long-Term Inhibitors of Cellular Xenobiotic Defense Systems Mediated by Multidrug Transporters.” Environmental Health Perspectives 113 (1): 17–24.

Study Details

Granted, most of us aren’t exposed to the levels of pesticides that these study participants were. Researchers from the University of Sterling in Scotland studied over 1,000 Canadian women, half of whom had already been diagnosed with breast cancer. They found that those women who had the disease were nearly three times as likely to have worked on a farm, especially when they were teenagers.

The authors of the study speculated that toxic pesticides and other farm chemicals could be responsible for initiating changes in women’s breasts that would eventually lead to cancer. Developing breast tissue is particularly vulnerable to toxic exposure.

Cancer Related to Your Career?

Andrew Watterson, one of the study researchers, added that roughly four percent of all cancers are related to a woman’s occupation. He found that the risk of breast cancer was highest in women who worked or lived on farms during adolescence, then went on to work in the auto or health industries. Chemicals from all of these occupations, including radiation, drugs, anesthetic waste gas, pesticides, and solvents, could be linked to cancer.

Other Scientists are Skeptical

Other scientists aren’t so sure about this study. Some say there were too few participants for the results to carry too much weight. Meanwhile there are many other factors that can contribute to cancer risk, including smoking, weight gain, heredity, a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, and stress.

This isn’t the first study to make this sort of connection, however. Research by R. H. Allen and colleagues discussed breast cancer patterns in Hawaii as they related to toxin exposure, and Teitelbaum and colleagues found that residential pesticides may also increase cancer risk. More studies need to be done, but it seems science is finally paying attention to what we suspected all along—that these chemicals are just not good for us.

Reduce Your Exposure to Pesticides

What can you do to reduce your exposure to pesticides? Try these few tips, and realize that people who are involved in occupations exposing them to chemicals are far more at risk than those who aren’t. Every little bit helps, however, in living your healthiest life possible!

• Buy organic, particularly for foods you don’t peel like apples, celery, strawberries, peaches, pears, greens, and tomatoes. Wash all fruits and vegetables before eating.
• Try to get rid of pests without chemicals. Block openings under doors and around vents, and keep your house clean and free of areas where pests can find food and water.
• Avoid pesticides in your home, and buy non-toxic deterrents instead. If you must use a pesticide, protect yourself with gloves and a mask.
• Take your shoes off before you enter the house. Chemical residues tracked in on the bottom of your shoes can last for years in carpeting.

How do you reduce your exposure to pesticides? Please share your tips.

Sources:

• R. H. Allen, “Breast Cancer And Pesticides in Hawaii: the Need for Further Study,” Environmental Health Perspectives, (1997) April (105, Suppl 3): 679-683.
• Susan L. Teitelbaum, et al., “Reported Residential Pesticide Use and Breast Cancer Risk on Long Island, New York,” Am. J. Epidemiol (2007) 165(6): 643-651.

Photo courtesy CHS Inc via Flickr.com.

Pamper your skin with goodies from your own kitchen. Forget high-cost skin-care products that are full of chemicals anyway. Need extra moisture? Smash up a banana or an avocado, mix it with some yogurt, and wear it as a mask for 10-15 minutes. Find more homemade skin-care wonders.

Make your own non-toxic household cleaners. You’ll be amazed how much money you can save by making your own cleansers, and you’ll save your tender nasal passages and lungs from absorbing all those toxic chemicals typically present in over-the-counter cleansers. All you need is a little baking soda, washing soda, and vinegar. Check out my household cleaning recipes.

Use jars to store food. Get away from dangers BPA plastics and store your food in old spaghetti or salsa glass jars. They work perfectly, save you from having to buy plastic storage containers, and keep your family safe.

Open the windows. Looking to freshen the air? Forget spending money on contaminating air fresheners. Open a window. Even in cooler weather, you can open a window slightly for a few minutes and get the benefit of a fresh breath of air. House plants can also help remove toxins and improve indoor air quality. I’ve got other tips for natural air freshening.

Buy in bulk. Think organic foods are too expensive? Check out your local farmer’s market, or buy in bulk and freeze yourself. Buying organic really can help cut down on your pesticide exposure, and you can find ways to go organic without breaking your budget.

Color your hair less often. Hair dyes, particularly dark ones, can be toxic. Organic options may or may not be safer—the jury is still out—and henna hair coloring, though more natural, is difficult to change if you don’t like the color. (Putting chemical color on top of henna can destroy the hair strand.) Ask your stylist for non-toxic solutions, read my post for more natural options, and cut down on the number of times you color your hair each year. Less exposure means less risk.

Grow your own. There’s nothing more natural than growing your own herbs or vegetables, and it’s the frugal alternative to buying them from the store. Try an herb garden on your windowsill, or a small veggie garden in your back yard.

Do you have other low-cost or no-cost non-toxic living tips? Please share!

Photo courtesy karenwithak via Flickr.com.

I wanted to warn parents, however, about a couple products that may have potentially harmful chemicals. Kids these days are surrounded by more chemicals than we were at that age, so if you can provide safer options, why not?

The good news is that there are safer products out there. In other words, you don’t have to give up the fun—just make smarter choices!

Face Paint: It’s a great alternative for kids, as it doesn’t obscure their vision like a mask does, but did you know that regular face paint can contain dangerous metals that can cause skin sensitivity and even brain damage? The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics tested 10 of them and found that all contained lead, and six had nickel, cobalt, or chromium at levels exceeding industry safety guidelines. Remember that the skin can and does absorb some of the things it comes into contact with, particularly if that product stays on the skin for an extended length of time.

Fortunately, there are better alternatives. You just have to look for them. Luna Organics and Terra Firma Cosmetics sell makeup and face paint that’s made of non-toxic, hypoallergenic materials. You can also make your own with these do-it-yourself face paint recipes provided by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. If your child is prone to allergies, make sure you test any type of paint on a small patch of skin before using it on the face.

Masks and costumes: Masks can be potentially dangerous for many reasons. The most common is that they obscure vision. If your kids are out trick-or-treating, they may not be able to see an oncoming car. Did you know that car-pedestrian collisions are the biggest danger for kids on this holiday? We all worry about poisoned candy, but the real danger is on the street.

Masks and costumes can also be made of potentially toxic materials like plastics (which may contain phthalates), flame-retardant materials, lead, and other toxins. Costume jewelry often contains cadmium and lead. Fortunately, there are options. You can find costumes made with non-toxic materials like organic cotton, wool, silk, or hemp. A couple places to look: Sarah’s Silks, Radical Thread Co., and Magic Cabin. For more ideas, try EcoFabulous’ guide to Halloween costumes, or Martha Stewart’s homemade Halloween costumes.

Treats: Of course, we have to talk about all that sugar! Halloween and candy just seem to go together, but realize that hospitals see more kids for bellyaches on this holiday than any other. If your kids come home with a bucket full of treats, help them to store most of it in a fun container for later so they won’t overindulge. Better yet, feed them a good dinner before they go out so they’re not overly hungry for treats.

What if you want to give out healthier stuff to the kids who come to your door? Try animal cookies, small boxes of raisins, dark chocolate pieces, yogurt-covered pretzels, and chocolate-dipped fruits.

With a few careful choices, you can enjoy a fun and non-toxic Halloween this year!

How do you reduce your toxic exposure on Halloween? Share your tips.

Photo courtesy Onyx_Kytten via Flickr.com.