Parabens and Phthalates

Parabens and phthalates are toxins commonly added to beauty products that I have not yet discussed, but they are certainly something I try to avoid when purchasing lotions, polish, etc. If you have sensitive skin as well, you may also want to avoid them.

Parabens are a group of chemicals used as a preservative in body lotions and creams to prevent bacteria growth. While this seems good, many people have allergic reactions or sensitivities to the parabens. When checking the ingredients list, if you see: methylparaben, propylparaben, ilsoparaben, or butylparaben, then you will want to avoid this product. Suntan lotions often have parabens.

Phthalates, or dibutyl phthalates, (aka DBP or DEP) is a chemical used to make lotions spread and absorb easier, stabilize fragrances, and prevent brittleness in nail polish. It can also be harmful and irritating to sensitive skin sufferers. Fragrances are still able to get away with not listing ingredients; therefore, making researching it very difficult. I have stopped wearing perfumes and now only use a light amount of rosewater. For nail polish, there are many brands that now advertise as being '3 free' or '5 free'. This means they are suppose to be free of phthalates, toulene, and formaldehyde. 5 free is also free of camphor and formaldehyde resins.

 It takes a little more time, reading, and research, but there are still good products out there, and there are a growing number of small companies in the natural beauty industry. There is also a growing customer demand for products that are free of 'junk'. I hope the growing competition will help keep the prices down.

Clean the Air

Living in small spaces and having asthma can make breathing difficult at times; like in the dry cold winter, or in the spring when the snow melts and the dust and molds come out and the trees begin to pollinate. Of course, opening the windows and starting up a few fans to air out the rooms is a good idea, but having house plants can help clean the air naturally. The family of Palm plants are good for removing formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air. Also good for helping to remove these toxins are the family of Anthuriums, Schefflera, and Orchids (Peace Lily and Spathiphyllum are good indoor orchids).

I am not sure if any of these plants are poisonous to pets, so please research first, and it is probably best to keep the plants in areas where the pets can't get at them.

Himalayan Salt Lamps are also great for cleaning the air. They are much less expensive then an air cleaner and they don't give off that awful smell either. Himalayan Salt Lamps ionize the air by sending out negative ions to neutralize the positive ions in the air. These lamps are quite widely available and can be purchased in various types, shapes, and sizes. They are also very pretty to look at. I keep a small one near my computer that gives off a pleasant, reddish glow.

Burning essential oils is a great way to make your home smell great, but be careful to not over do it. Too much and it can actually make it hard to breath. I find many of the droppers of the essential oils are unpredictable, so be careful when you are pouring the drops. It is almost impossible to count the drops, so I just careful watch and 'guesstimate'. I like to mix lemon, peppermint, and lavender. Surprisingly, the combination gives off a great smell, and it also helps to open up my sinuses.

I will continue to hunt and research other natural ways to breath easy and clean the air in the home without using harsh chemicals.

Baby Wipes and Cleansing Cloths

I have been reading many articles lately about baby wipes and cleansing cloths (or make-up remover cloths) and people having allergic reactions to them. The ingredient is the same preservative I was recently diagnosed as being allergic to, methylisothiazolinone or MI. Look for methylisothiazolinone in the ingredients list. If there are no ingredients listed, then I would not bother purchasing the wipes/cloths. There are some products out there now that are chemical free, but hey are not as easy to find, and they will likely cost more than regular brands.

I quit using cleansing cloths and now use unscented, alcohol free witch hazel and a cotton ball to clean my face; although, I don't wear much for make-up anymore. For make-up wearers, search for cloths that are not using harsh chemicals, check the ingredients, or use a wash off cleansing lotion/cream/foam/ that is for sensitive skin. Always be sure to check the ingredients first before you buy.

For baby wipes, it can be either the parent or the child who could have the allergic reaction. Look for sensitive skin brands and again check the ingredients for MI.

I honestly feel it is best to quit using these types of wipes altogether or significantly reduce how much you use them. I can't speak for baby wipes. I know it is difficult for parents and baby wipes are needed when traveling or when it is hectic and crazy. I would definitely recommend searching for brands that are flushable or you could end up with a plumbing problem.

For a recipe to make your own wipes, click here.