As we become more conscious of what we put into our bodies, we also need to become more aware of what we put onto our bodies. Many personal care products contain ingredients that can harm our health, such as chemical preservatives, artificial fragrances, and synthetic colors. These ingredients have been linked to a range of health problems, including allergies, hormone disruption, and even cancer.
One ingredient that is commonly found in personal care products is cetearyl alcohol. This ingredient is a mixture of cetyl and stearyl alcohol and is used as a thickener and emulsifier. It is used in a wide range of products, such as moisturizers, facial cleansers, and shampoos.
While cetearyl alcohol is generally considered safe, it can cause irritation for some people, especially those with sensitive skin. Additionally, some concerns have been raised about the potential for impurities in cetearyl alcohol, such as 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen.
To avoid these potential risks, it is important to choose personal care products that are free from harmful ingredients. One way to do this is to look for products that have been verified by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
The EWG is a non-profit organization that provides information about the safety and health effects of various consumer products, including personal care products. They have developed a strict set of criteria for the products that they verify, which includes avoiding ingredients of concern, disclosing all ingredients on the label or packaging, and using good manufacturing practices.
By choosing products that have been verified by the EWG, you can feel confident that you are making a safe and healthy choice for yourself and your family. Some examples of verified products include natural moisturizers, face creams, and shampoos.
In addition to personal care products, it is also important to be aware of the food additives that we consume. Many processed foods contain additives that can be harmful to our health, such as high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and preservatives.
To avoid these harmful additives, it is important to choose whole foods and cook meals from scratch whenever possible. You should also look for products that are labeled as organic or non-GMO, as these are less likely to contain harmful additives.
In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the ingredients in the products that we use and consume. By choosing personal care products that have been verified by the EWG and avoiding harmful food additives, we can take steps to protect our health and reduce our exposure to harmful chemicals.