Research conducted by popular laboratories have found that perfumes from world-famous brands contain at least 14 chemicals that are never mentioned on the label and masked as “trade secrets”. These may be present in your lotion, deodorant or even shampoo. Besides faint traces of natural fragrances (if any at all), there can be preservatives, dyes, solvents, UV absorbers, stabilizers, petrochemicals and several other synthetic raw materials that give your perfume that unique scent!
Here is a closer look at some toxic chemicals your perfume may contain:
Synthetic musk – It can get deposited in the body fat, breast milk, umbilical cord and can disrupt your hormones.
Parabens – These preservatives are synthetic and affect the release and production of hormones.
Phthalates – They have harmful effects on breast development, sperm count, liver, kidney, and can cause birth defects and can be carcinogenic.
Benzyl acetate – This cancer-causing agent results in eye and lung irritation.
Benzaldehyde – This agent can cause nausea, stomach pain, kidney problems, lung and eye irritation.
Camphor – Can cause twitching, convulsions, dizziness, and nausea.
Linalool – Has an adverse effect on the Central Nervous System and can cause respiratory problems.
Ethanol – It can result in poor vision, fatigue, drowsiness, and nausea.
Acetone – Can cause slurring of speech, dizziness, and nausea.
How to detect toxins in perfume?
In the USA, the FDA doesn’t have authority to test perfumes for their safety or toxicity. So, what can you do to protect your health? Check labels to see if the word synthetic is mentioned anywhere on the perfume or perfume bottle. Use the mobile app by Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep for an advanced search to make sure that there are no toxins in perfume.
If you have recently bought a perfume and are experiencing sneezing, nausea or any irritation on your skin, eyes or nose after applying it, then you must get rid of it. Avoid using any perfume, which is causing a breathing problem or any irritation of the skin.
Recommended Read: The pH of Cleansers and What It Means For Your Skin
Alternative to perfumes
You must try using organic aromatic essential oils to your bath or apply them on your skin directly for a rejuvenating experience. Toxins in perfume can not only affect your health but also impact the well-being of those around you. So, try going organic and use essential oils made from barks, leaves, flowers, seeds, and spices to stay healthy.
Recommended Read: Benefits of Frangipani Oil
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