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.

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.

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.

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.

I have such fond memories of Father’s Day. It was a big deal in my house. Today, I miss my father dearly, but feel blessed that I get to honor him every day through Cinco Vidas!

Though I may not be able to give my father a gift this year, he’s certainly on my mind, and I’m sure many Cinco Vidas readers are looking for just the right thing to get Dad. Here’s an idea: skin care.

Think the father in your life doesn’t need to take care of his skin? Think again. Here are a few reasons why safe skin care products are the perfect gift for Dad:

• Men like to age gracefully. In today’s world, men, just like women, often feel the pressure to look youthful and vibrant as they go about their jobs. Smooth, healthy skin can go a long way to helping a man feel confident and self-assured.
• A man’s face often suffers even more abuse than a women’s. Shaving every day is a natural exfoliant, but it can also break down the skin’s outer layer, leaving it prone to dryness and cracking. Men who work outdoors often subject their skin to wind, dirt, harsh temperatures, and pollution, further damaging skin’s texture and appearance.
• Because of the hormone testosterone, men often have oilier skin than women, making them more prone to acne.
• Men use several products a day, potentially exposing themselves to harmful chemicals that are linked to health problems.

In addition to these four points, what do you want to bet the products your father uses are not the best for him? Men often don’t think about these things. They get the cheapest cleanser on the shelf and forget about it. Unfortunately, many skin care products are full of potentially harmful ingredients, some of which are particularly concerning for men:¹

• Diethyl phthalate (DEP), found in products containing “fragrance” like aftershave, cologne, shaving cream, etc., has been linked to sperm damage in adult men.
• Lead acetate, found in men’s hair colorants, is considered toxic to human reproduction.
• Coal tar, found in dandruff shampoos, is considered a human carcinogen.
• Formaldehyde, a byproduct in many shampoos and body washes, can trigger skin rashes and other allergic reactions.
• 1,4-dioxane, another byproduct in shampoos and body washes, contaminates our water ways and is considered toxic to the kidneys and respiratory system.

The solution? Like I say to everyone—take more care in seeking quality skin care products. Read the ingredient lists, and take my Ingredients to Avoid card with you when you go shopping. Check out my post on where to find safe products for some great online stores, and consider the following tips:

• Take the bar soap away, and find a cleanser that draws out impurities with safe ingredients.
• Choose a toner that helps balance pH level and moisturize. Ingredients like eucalyptus, witch hazel, and tea tree are good here.
• The right moisturizer can be tricky—find a light one that won’t clog his pores, but that’s full of nourishing goodies like aloe, almond oil or jojoba oil.
• Try a vitamin serum—most quality brands are light and good for rejuvenating skin that has to stand up to the elements.

Did you get some quality skin care products for Father’s Day? Let us know!

Source

1. Michelle Witherby, “Think Skin Care is Just for Women? Men, Think Again!”, Natural Triad Magazine, June 11, 2011.

Photo courtesy strotter13 via dignitana.com.

According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, as many as 15–24 percent of Americans will experience hives at some point in their lives, while allergic dermatitis affects between 10–20 percent of children and 1–3 percent of adults.

¹ What causes these allergic reactions? Often it’s hard to nail down exactly what any one person may be allergic to, as the possible culprits are many. But there are a few that seem to be common irritants—including those listed below:

1. Latex. Found in rubber gloves and balloons, this is a common skin allergen that may cause dermatitis or even life-threatening anaphylaxis.

2. Dyes. These are the chemical colorants added to personal care products, which may commonly cause skin irritation.

3. Fragrances. Synthetic fragrances found in most personal care products, perfumes, and colognes are common skin irritants.

4. Preservatives. Chemicals used to prevent contamination in products are a common cause of allergic contact dermatitis. These include parabens, methylchloroisothiazolinone, and methylisothiazolinone.

5. Lanolin. Once a popular moisturizer, lanolin is processed in a number of ways, and some of these processing methods involve other chemicals and by-products that can irritate sensitive skin.

6. Chemicals that release formaldehyde: These chemicals are added to products for other reasons, such as to moisturize or keep the product at a certain consistency, but they may release formaldehyde and cause allergic reactions. Examples include quaternium 15, MDM hydantoin, DMDM hydantoin, and ureas.

This list only skims the surface. People with sensitive skin may also be allergic to dairy, gluten, PABA, alcohols, and nut ingredients, among others. The important thing is if you have a skin condition, particularly any of those listed above, an allergy is probably to blame. If you can pinpoint those items you’re allergic to, you may be able to reduce your flare-ups and enjoy more comfortable, attractive skin.

Your first step should be to contact your allergy doctor (or dermatologist) and ask for what is called a “patch test.” This is a common test used to identify substances that may create an allergic reaction for you. You can help your doctor by telling him/her of any substances you came into contact with before experiencing the reaction. He/she will then determine which substances you should be tested for, and place these in direct contact with your skin, usually on the upper back or on the forearm. After 48 hours the doctor will remove the patches and take an initial reading of any reactions, and then take another reading again 48 hours later. If your skin becomes red, swollen, or blistered as a result of contact with any of the substances, your doctor may conclude that you are allergic to that substance.

Once you have the results of your tests, you will probably have better luck avoiding the items that caused problems for you—and enjoy more comfortable, healthy skin in the future!

Have you had a patch test on your skin? Please share your story and suggestions.

Sources

1. Diseases 101: Skin Allergies. American Academy of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology. http://www.aaaai.org/patients/gallery/skinallergies.asp.

Photo courtesy tkym via Flickr.com.

Another dangerous chemical that’s in children’s products: pthalates. This particular toxin is especially harmful to the sexual development of young boys, so much so that there is now a “pthalate syndrome”—a condition in which the developing fetus experiences reproductive abnormalities, and may be born with undescended testes and a lower sperm count, and perhaps be at greater risk for tumors in the testes later in life. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found phthalates in three-quarters of the 72 name-brand products tested.

Such toxins as these are dangerous to everybody, but particularly to children. Their systems are more vulnerable, since they are just developing. Their cells are multiplying at a more rapid rate, their metabolic rates are higher, and they may retain more toxins per exposure because their immune systems are not yet as adept at weeding out the “bad” stuff. Is it simply coincidence that childhood asthma, autism, diabetes, and cancer are increasing at an alarming rate?

What can you do to protect your child? First of all, cut back on the amount of products you use. When you consider that shampoos, conditioners, body washes, lotions, toothpastes, hair sprays, sunscreens, and more are applied every day, you can see how toxins can build up in little bodies. “The main thing parents can do is use fewer body care products on their children or look for those products with fewer ingredients,” says Sonya Lunder, MPH, of CSC and the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

Next, the EWG’s Cosmetic Database advises you to read product labels, and avoid any that contain these seven ingredients:

1. 2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3 Diol
2. BHA
3. Boric acid and sodium borate
4. Dibutyl phthalate & toluene
5. DMDM Hydantoin
6. Oxybenzone
7. Triclosan

While you’re reading labels, try to stay away from other things like synthetic fragrances (choose natural-based fragrances instead, such as those from essential oils), synthetic dyes (colors), benzyl and isopropyl alcohols, ceteareth and PEG compounds, and parabens (preservatives). Finally, avoid the use of baby powder on infants, as it’s been shown to contain phthalates.

Some safer products you may want to try:

• Burt’s Bees, California Baby, and Jason Natural shampoos and conditioners
• California Baby body washes & liquid soaps
• Blue Lizard and California Baby sunscreens
• Seventh Generation baby wipes

To increase your child’s risk of living with fewer toxins, don’t stop with personal-care products. Buy organic produce to lessen exposure to pesticides, drink milk free of antibiotics and hormones, and feed children a healthy diet to help strengthen their immune systems.

Do you have some great product recommendations for kids? Please share!

Source
“Children’s Bath Products Contaminated with Formaldehyde, 1,4-Dioxane,” Campaign for Safe Cosmetics Press Release, March 12, 2009. http://safecosmetics.org/article.php?id=425.

Photo courtesy of ember via Flickr.com.

A new study conducted by scientists from the National Cancer Institute followed 25,000 industrial workers in formaldehyde-producing plants for three decades, estimating the amount of formaldehyde each was exposed to while on the job. Workers with the highest exposures were 37% more likely to die from any blood or lymphatic cancer, and 78% more likely to die from myeloid leukemia, a cancer of the white blood cells. Highly exposed workers were also nearly four times more likely to die of Hodgkin lymphoma. (Overall, the risk of cancer was low, causing only 319 of the 14,000 deaths during the study period.)

In 1995, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration estimated that approximately 2.1 million workers in the United States were exposed to formaldehyde. Professionals like lab technicians, mortuary employees, textile workers, and industrial workers who produce the chemical are exposed more than the rest of us. However, since the vapor or gas is easily released into the air, we all can come in contact with it through automobile emissions, pressed-wood products, cigarette smoke, gas stoves, kerosene heaters, and personal-care products. In March of this year, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (CSC) reported that most of the children’s bath products they tested were contaminated with the chemical. Insane, isn’t it? (Read our post on formaldehyde in baby products.) Even hurricane Katrina victims suffered respiratory ailments when exposed to formaldehyde in the trailers provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

Meanwhile, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has yet to complete their risk assessment for the chemical, which would provide nationwide guidance on its danger to human health. The Formaldehyde Council, apparently, seeks further delays, pushing for a review by the National Academy of Sciences.

While government agencies take their time, what can you do to lower your risk? If you work in one of the aforementioned professions and you’re concerned, check your safety regulations on dealing with formaldehyde and strive to limit your exposure. In the home, keep rooms well ventilated, reduce humidity levels, and ask about formaldehyde content before purchasing pressed-wood products like cabinetry and furniture.

Finally, avoid nail polishes, nail hardeners, and bath products that may contain the chemical. Stick with organic brands from reputable companies like California Baby, Burt’s Bees, and Dr. Remedy. Again, this is why we all have to become our own authorities and read labels before purchasing any beauty, personal care, and baby products.

Has anyone in your family suffered from cancer as a possible result of formaldehyde exposure? Please share your story with us.

Photo courtesy of Snap Village.

Somebody’s finally getting fired up. And it’s about time.

In March of this year, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (CSC) reported that most of the children’s bath products they tested were contaminated with two chemicals linked to cancer and skin allergies. Later that same month, acting on behalf of parents or other consumers who had purchased the products, Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro (HBSS) took Johnson & Johnson, Proctor & Gamble, Kimberley Clark, and other manufacturers to court.

“Parents are frightened by these findings, and rightly so,” said Steve Berman, attorney representing the plaintiffs and managing partner of Seattle-based HBSS.

According to the study, 82 percent of products contained at least 54 parts per million of formaldehyde and 1,4-dioxane. The results are disturbing for anyone, not just parents—these chemicals are found in many brand-name personal-care products. 1,4 dioxane is a known animal carcinogen and penetrates readily into the skin. The U.S. National Toxicology Program lists formaldehyde as “reasonably anticipated to cause cancer.” It’s also known to cause allergic reactions, contact dermatitis, headaches and chronic fatigue. And both these chemicals are listed as probable human carcinogens by the Environmental Protection Agency.

Unfortunately, neither one appears on the ingredient deck, so it’s difficult to tell if you’re being exposed. Both are by-products of the manufacturing process, created as a result of reactions between the other ingredients. You can watch out for “sodium myreth sulfate,” “PEG,” “oxynol,” “ceteareth,” “oleth,” and “polyethylene,” which are all potential precursors of 1,4 dioxane. As for formaldehyde, stay away from Quaternium-15 and other chemical preservatives that can release it. (Find out more about reading labels.)

The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) has countered that the CSC’s report was not scientifically noteworthy, the levels of the chemicals found are not hazardous, and the FDA and the Cosmetic Ingredients Review Expert Panel have already concluded that formaldehyde in cosmetics and personal care products is safe at current levels (below 2,000ppm). However, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says, “The presence of 1,4-dioxane, even as a trace contaminant, is cause for concern.” The HBSS lawsuit calls for medical monitoring of children and anyone exposed to the products in question.

According to the CSC, manufacturers could easily remove these chemicals. (Some have already done so in organic and other more natural formulas.) Jeanne Rizzo, R.N., president and CEO of the Breast Cancer Fund, says, “There is absolutely no reason why manufacturers can’t remove hazardous chemicals in products being applied to babies’ bodies every day. Children are exposed to toxic chemicals from many sources. We need to protect them from these kinds of repeated, unnecessary exposures.” Let’s hope this lawsuit will be the first step toward doing that.

Meanwhile, there are a few toxic-free, natural baby lines that are clear of these two chemicals: we like California Baby, Earth Mama Angel Baby, and organic Erbaviva. The price for all-natural, chemical-free and organic shampoos and lotions can be a bit higher, as the ingredients and manufacturing processes are more costly. However, we’ve found these products to be more concentrated and last longer—you definitely get your money’s worth. When we realize the chemicals that are present in our standard products, and how dangerous they can be for babies and adults, switching to organics becomes a no-brainer.

Fired up over chemicals in your baby products? Please share your thoughts with us!

Photo courtesy of FadderUri, via Flickr.com.

That sharp odor comes from a mix of alcohol, solvents and resins that gives polish its ability to adhere to the nail, deliver the pigment, and resist chipping and peeling. Unfortunately, with repeated exposure, several of these ingredients are highly toxic as well as pungent, especially to sensitive and compromised nails. But since treatment may be leaving your nails brittle and discolored, you’ll probably want to cover up with nail polish. Is there an alternative?

Browse the nail-polish aisle and you’ll find a lot of pretty names like Siberian Nights and Shanghai Shimmer, but the words in the ingredient lists are significantly less flattering. Many brands contain chemicals like toluene and formaldehyde, and some still contain Dibutyl Phthalate (DBP)—though the European Union has banned it from their cosmetics.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found DBP and other phthalates—which have been associated with reproductive abnormalities—in the bloodstream of every person they tested, but still the FDA has taken no action to ban the ingredient. The Environmental Working Group attributed the presence of DBP in young woman to the use of nail polish, and warned moms to stay away. Fortunately, many major manufacturers are beginning to create formulas without this toxic ingredient.

Toluene, when inhaled in large doses, has been reported to cause extreme fatigue, mental confusion, nausea, headache and dizziness. As for formaldehyde, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends it be handled as a potential occupational carcinogen. Lab studies have shown rats exposed to the vapors developed nasal cancer. Even simple inhalation can cause throat irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath, and the chemical is known to absorb into the skin.

And then we have the polish removers. Full of things like acetone (known to irritate the eyes and lungs) and ethyl acetate (highly flammable, can lead to neurological damage), they tend to dry skin and nails, making your hands look worse. None of this sounds so pretty after all, does it?

Thankfully, we can avoid these chemicals and still have pretty nails. As long as your nails aren’t broken or exposing wounded skin, we encourage you to use nail polish, but opt for safer formulas. Gentler products do exist, and they’re usually labeled “water-based” and/or claim to be free of these dangerous chemicals. Some examples: Honeybee Gardens WaterColors and Odorless Nail Polish Remover, Dr. Remedy Nail Products (love this brand!), Acquarella Water Color, No Miss “Almost Natural” Nail Polish Remover, Tate’s Natural Miracle Odorless Nail Polish Remover, Peacekeeper Natural Nail Polish, and SunCoat products.

To determine the toxic rating on your favorite polish, check out the Safe Cosmetics listing of many popular brands. And if you’re getting your nails manicured, make sure to take your gentler polish and remover with you—you’re more likely to avoid infection and stay safe.

Have some non-toxic nail polishes or removers to recommend? Let us know!

Photo courtesy of Snap Village