Cosmetics and Consequences

This issue of cosmetic care products and toxic ingredients isn't a new one if you have been to any of the Leaflady's classes or read her articles over the years.

What strikes me funny is the 'latecomers' who feign knowledege, as if the were the first on the block to have some of this information. I guess I can take umbrage at these 'gurus' who at the same time they condemn one or two toxic chemicals in certain products, while promoting other so-called natural products as safe.

Let's look further.

One of the major problems with chemically based cosmetics, even those sold in health stores, is that the FDA does not require the ingredients to be tested in combination. And that's the rub!

So here we have one self-proclaimed natural health 'expert' on NewsTarget that wants readers to believe that its just methylisothiazoline, or MIT, causes damage. He states that MIT is in Head and Shoulders, Suave, Clairol and Pantene Hair Conditioner. He tells the reader he frequently warnsing about the dangers of using brand-name personal care products. Stating in a quote from a recent article, "The vast majority of these products contain toxic chemical compounds like MIT that contribute to cancer, liver disorders and neurological diseases. In fact, this chemical, MIT, is just one of dozens of such chemicals that are found in personal care products." (Adams attacks SLS here too.)

At the end of this article he asks if you want a real shampoo, then suggests you "purchase Olive Oil Shampoo from Heritage Products, available at most natural health stores".

Health Lies Exposed editor Greg Ciola promotes this and sometimes some other less than factual information. My problem with Ciola is that when I have contacted him with some questions about information he posts on his web site or sends out in his newsletter, he doesn't answer.

Well I thought I'd answer this concern with some facts about the recommended "real shampoo" and let you decide for yourself.

Olive Oil Shampoo contains the following ingredients: Water, Cocamide DEA, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Potassium Dodecyl Benzene Sulfonate, Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate and Hydrolyzed Wheat Protein Olivate (Olive Oil Glutinate).

Olive Oil Conditioner contains Water, Standamul (Cetearyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Castor Oil and Stearalkonium Chloride, Olive Oil, Vegetable Derived Emulsifier (Cetearyl Alcohol and Cetearyl Polyglucose), Dehyquart (Cetrimonium Chloride), Citricidal, Lanolin, Aloe, Gardenia Oil and Herbal Fusion Fragrance: Rosemary, Yarrow, Sage, Lemon Grass, Nettles. Lavender Oil.

Out of these ingredients we have:
DEA - An emulsifier and sufactant that causes nitrosamines whne in contact with skin, and is carcinogenic.
SLS - Detergent, emulsifier and surfactant. Degreaes and dries the skin, and damages DNA inside the cell.
Benzene - A known bone marrow poison, carcinogenic, mutagenic, toxic and causes many adverse reactions. (Benzene is a recent issue as it is found in sodas.)
Cetearyl Alcohol - May cause contact dermatitis and sensitivity.
Cetrimonium Chloride - A toxic quarterary compound used as a and anti-static compound, surfactant, emulsifier and moisturizer.
Stearalkonium Chloride - Developed originally as a fabric softener.
Fragrance - It is commonly known that most fragrances are made from petroleum.

If you'd like to know where to purchase 'real' shampoo that is organic and free of toxic chemicals, ask the Leaflady.

So now you be the judge!