We all want to look beautiful on the outside, but our actions may come with a significant cost to our well-being. There are many substances used in common cosmetic products that have been shown to be harmful to our health. Beauty products are absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream where they can reach various tissues. A recent study reported by the environmental working group found that the average adult used nine cosmetic products daily and more than 25% of women used 15 or more. This gives us ample opportunity for exposure to chemicals contained in these products. We will discuss two of the most troubling chemicals.

The first are parabens. Parabens are widely used as a preserving agent in cosmetic products as well as in some drugs and foods. They prevent the growth of bacteria and other organisms. A recent study conducted in Europe and reported by Harvey and Darbre found that 77% of beauty products tested contain parabens, so chances are you have them in your beauty products. Another study conducted in the United Kingdom by Darbre found parabens present in breast cancer tumors.

A proposed link between underarm products and these cancers may explain the fact that a disproportionate number of breast cancers are found in the upper outer quadrant of the left breast were these products would be applied more heavily by a primarily right-handed population. The study did not conclude that the cancer was a direct result of the parabens. Exactly how and why parabens were associated with these tumors has yet to be established. Parabens have been shown to be estrogenic in a number of studies performed on rats and mice. It has been well established that estrogenic substances negatively influence many breast cancers. Additional studies in this area are ongoing.

Another group of toxic substances are phthalates. Phthalates provide softness and flexibility to plastic products and carry other chemicals, making them "fragrant." Therefore, they are heavily used in colognes, perfumes, after shaves, lotions, hair products, lipsticks, blush, eyeliners and deodorants. They also are used commonly in nail polish. Phthalates are of particular concern in pregnancy in that they have been linked to birth defects in animals. They are being found at alarming levels in women of childbearing age.

Pthathlates also affect the fertility of men. A recent study at the Massachusetts General Hospital and Andrology laboratory followed 406 men, also being studied for semen quality, to determine if they use of personal-care products increased phthalate concentration in their bodies. Men who use cologne or aftershave within 48 hours before urine collection had 200% higher levels of phthalates than the nonusers. Each additional type of product use increased phthalates exposure and excretion by 33%. Toxicology studies have shown significant decreased sperm production and infertility in men associated with phthalate exposure.

While there are still questions regarding parabens and phthalates, it would be prudent to avoid exposure to these chemicals for the time being. It is possible to find natural skin care products that are made without parabens and phthalates—just read the labels. Our practice uses and recommends Hylunia Skin Care Products, as they do not contain harmful chemicals and additives. Please also visit www.ewg.org/reports/skindeep2 and www.thinkbeforeyoupink.org for more information.

- Dr. Sosin is the Founder and Medical Director of the Institute for Progressive Medicine in Irvine, California. He has authored two books, Alpha Lipoic Acid: Nature's Ultimate Antioxidant, and The Doctor's Guide to Diabetes and Your Child.

_{The information contained on this blog is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any illness or condition. The recommendations contained on this site have not been reviewed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). No content contained on this site is a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never increase, reduce or discontinue any medication or treatment without first consulting your doctor.}

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posted at 11:37:39 AM