RETHINK YOUR PINK: READ THE LABEL AGAINST CANCER
As we always believe that prevention is better than cure, below are cancer-causing cosmetic ingredients that one should look out for when buying beauty products.
Cancer is something that feels close to a lot of us. Maybe you have lost a mother, father, brother, sister, a close friend, a partner. Maybe you, like many others, have felt like you’ve lost a person you love to a slow battle that you had no chance of winning: cancer. Although there can never be a fool-proof way to avoid cancer --- taking into account genetics, environment, lifestyle, etc. --- you can start by reading the label and knowing what to avoid.
Every October, some brands proclaim their support for breast cancer awareness month which manifests through products that have pink ribbons or are pink in color. Ironically, not all of these pink-labeled products are free of toxic ingredients. This is called pink washing.
While some chemicals in cosmetics make us look or smell better, some research indicate that certain exposure levels to these chemicals may contribute to the development of cancer, so going for pink isn’t enough – you have to educate yourself on what you should avoid.
Cancer-linked ingredients you should avoid Parabens (BHA, PHT) Parabens is said to be a preservative linked to endoctrine disruption and reproductive health issues. This is used in creams, conditioners, antiperspirants, and deodorants.
Triclosan/Triclocarbon (TSC/TCC)
It is a toxic anti-bacterial ingredient linked to endoctrine disruption. This is commonly found in antibacterial soaps, detergents, and toothpastes, among others.
Synthetic Fragrances (Phthalates, DEP, DBP, DEHP)
Synthetic fragrance is suspected to be an endoctrine disruptor that masks the scent of nail polish and makes the fragrance of lotions and body wash last longer.
SLS/SLES (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate/Sodium Laureth Sulfate)
SLS/SLES is used as a foaming agent in soaps, shampoos and toothpastes. This damages skin and hair because it removes natural protective barriers.
Petroleum / Mineral oil (petrolatum, petroleum jelly, paraffin oil, mineral oil, white petrolatum)
These are prone to PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) contamination. PAH is a carcinogen used in lotions and body creams as a moisturizer as well as in lip products as an emollient.
You may find it challenging to totally eradicate these toxic ingredients from our cosmet-
ic and hygiene products, but you can start by trying out certified organic products that use nothing but plant-derived ingredients that are proven safe for use.
Human Nature is a brand that I’ve always loved and patronized for a long time now not just because of their products’ quality but also because all their ingredients are plant-derived and safe even for all ages. What’s more, their products are certified by the Natural Products Association which upholds the strictest standard of safety worldwide for personal care and home products.
Their pink line uses 100% natural and safe ingredients – a far cry from toxic chemicals used in other beauty products. These are replaced with: Coconut-derived sufractants instead of SLS/ SLES, anise and corn preservatives instead of parabens, and sunflower oil instead of mineral oil or petrolatum.
As October draws to a close, here’s a new habit you can practice. Next time you grab a product, always keep in mind to read the label and Rethink Clean, Rethink Germ-free, Rethink smooth, and Rethink Pink. Strive to prevent cancer not just on Pink October, but all year round.
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Andrea Isabelle Mejos is a young writer from Davao. She likes to seek beauty from all angles --- people, products, places --- and writes them down. For inquiries, you may reach her at mejosandrea@gmail.com