26 Seconds: Makeup ingredients to avoid

The major organs and glands of the human endocrine system include the pancreas, hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroids, adrenals, pineal gland, and the reproductive organs.  This system influences practically every cell and function in the body and affects mood, metabolism, growth, tissue function and sexual reproduction. When we introduce toxins known as endocrine disruptors (EDCs) or xenoestrogens to the body, we are disturbing the balance of this system and preventing optimum wellness.

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that mimic hormones. BPA is a commonly known example. These toxins can be found in cookware, plastics, sleepwear, mattresses, pesticides, dryer sheets and even on store receipts.  When we ingest toxins, they are filtered by our kidneys, liver, and gut, depending on the health of these organs.  When applying products directly to our skin, within 26 seconds the ingredients enter the bloodstream without the benefit of that filtering system.

The USFDA prohibits about a dozen ingredients from being used in cosmetic products while the EU maintains a much stricter list of around 1,500 no-no’s. This discrepancy places the burden on US consumers to read labels and do research. Here is a list of the major contenders to avoid: 

• pthalates

• formaldehyde

• formaldehyde-donating preservatives such as

• DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, methenamine, quaternium-15, and sodium hydroxymethylglycinate)

• parabens

• oxybenzone

• DEA/TEA/MEA

• SLS/SLES (sodium lauryl sulfates)

• diethylene glycol (DEG)

• lead mercury

• mineral oil

• fragrances (essential oils are preferable for scent)Obviously, as some ingredients such as lead and mercury would not be listed, yet would be from a contaminated ingredient, it is in your best interest to know the company’s policies regarding ingredient policies, sources and country of production.

Besides simply choosing safe products, we can protect the endocrine system and promote optimum wellness by consuming at least a pound a day of organic veggies (greens, especially), drinking at least half our body weight in ounces of water per day, maintaining a healthy gut with fermented foods and drinks or a superior probiotic supplement and  supporting a healthy liver and kidneys.

Sauna Detox and ECR clearings are also highly beneficial in promoting detoxification.

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#detox #environmentaltoxins