Welcome back to Twins4wellness! In today’s world, many of us prioritize wellness and choose products that promote a healthier lifestyle. Yet, we often overlook certain household and personal care items that may contain ingredients linked to cancer. Understanding which products contain these harmful ingredients can empower us to make informed choices. Here’s a closer look at some common products with potentially cancer-causing chemicals and tips on how to choose safer alternatives.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase on our website we may earn a commission.

Hidden Dangers: Everyday Products with Cancer-Causing Ingredients and How to Avoid Them

1. Personal Care Products

• Shampoos, Conditioners, and Body Washes
  Many hair care and body products contain sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and parabens. Studies suggest that these chemicals may increase the risk of certain cancers. Parabens, for instance, have been shown to mimic estrogen, which may play a role in the development of breast cancer [1].
• Deodorants and Antiperspirants
  The aluminum-based compounds in antiperspirants may block sweat glands, allowing toxins to accumulate in the body. Although research is mixed, some studies suggest a link between these compounds and breast cancer, especially with long-term use [2]. I have started using Aluminum free deodorant. I like the native brand on Amazon and it’s all natural.

https://amzn.to/3NG9heU

• Lotions and Sunscreens
  Chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, commonly found in sunscreens, are known to penetrate the skin and may disrupt hormone levels. Oxybenzone, in particular, is under scrutiny for its possible links to endocrine disruption, which is associated with cancer risks [3].

2. Household Cleaners

• All-Purpose Cleaners and Bleach
  Many cleaning products contain ammonia, sodium hypochlorite (bleach), and formaldehyde. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, while ammonia and bleach can release fumes that irritate the lungs and may contribute to respiratory cancers [4].
• Air Fresheners and Scented Candles
  These products often contain phthalates and benzene. Benzene is a known carcinogen, and long-term exposure may increase the risk of leukemia and other cancers. Phthalates, used as fragrance stabilizers, have also been linked to hormone disruption [5].

3. Food Packaging

• Plastic Containers and Canned Foods
  Bisphenol A (BPA), used in plastic food storage containers and the linings of cans, can leach into food, particularly when heated. BPA is known to mimic estrogen, which can disrupt the body’s endocrine system and has been linked to increased cancer risks [6].
• Processed Meats and Preserved Foods
  Some processed meats contain sodium nitrates and nitrites as preservatives, which can form carcinogenic compounds called nitrosamines when heated. These compounds are linked to higher rates of colon and stomach cancers [7].

4. Cosmetics

• Makeup and Skincare
  Some cosmetics, particularly those not rigorously tested, contain talc, which may be contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen. Lipsticks and powders may also contain heavy metals like lead, which can be toxic and carcinogenic with long-term use [8].
• Nail Polish
  Some nail polishes contain toluene and formaldehyde, both of which are associated with cancer and other serious health issues. The fumes from these chemicals can be particularly harmful when inhaled regularly [9].

How to Choose Safer Alternatives

• Read Labels Carefully
  Look for terms like “paraben-free,” “phthalate-free,” and “formaldehyde-free” on labels. Many brands have started eliminating these chemicals in response to consumer concerns.
• Use Natural Ingredients
  Opt for products with minimal, natural ingredients. Baking soda, vinegar, and essential oils can make effective and safe alternatives to chemical cleaners and air fresheners. Here is a link to an essential oils guide: The Top 10 Best Essential Oils for Your Well-Being.
• Choose BPA-Free Packaging
  Look for BPA-free labels on plastic containers, or better yet, use glass or stainless steel for food storage and avoid microwaving in plastic containers.
• Consult the Environmental Working Group (EWG)
  EWG provides a “Skin Deep” database where consumers can look up the safety of specific products and ingredients [10].

Final Thoughts

In our daily lives, exposure to potentially cancer-causing chemicals can be minimized with a few mindful changes. Staying informed, reading labels, and opting for safer products will help reduce the risk of prolonged exposure to harmful ingredients. It may take time to adjust, but making these changes can make a difference in safeguarding our health and well-being.

References

1. Darbre, P. D. (2006). Environmental oestrogens, cosmetics and breast cancer. Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 20(1), 121-143.
2. McGrath, K. G. (2003). An earlier age of breast cancer diagnosis related to more frequent use of antiperspirants/deodorants and underarm shaving. European Journal of Cancer Prevention, 12(6), 479-485.
3. Matta, M. K., et al. (2020). Effect of sunscreen application on plasma concentration of sunscreen active ingredients: A randomized clinical trial. JAMA, 323(3), 256-267.
4. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Formaldehyde. Available at: https://www.epa.gov/formaldehyde
5. Rudel, R. A., et al. (2008). Phthalates, alkylphenols, pesticides, polybrominated diphenyl ethers, and other endocrine-disrupting compounds in indoor air and dust. Environmental Science & Technology, 42(15), 5551-5556.
6. Rochester, J. R. (2013). Bisphenol A and human health: A review of the literature. Reproductive Toxicology, 42, 132-155.
7. International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (2015). IARC Monographs evaluate consumption of red meat and processed meat.
8. American Cancer Society. (2020). Talcum powder and cancer. Available at: https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/talcum-powder-and-cancer.html
9. National Toxicology Program. Formaldehyde. Available at: https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/ntp/roc/content/profiles/formaldehyde.pdf
10. Environmental Working Group (EWG). Skin Deep. Available at: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

By staying informed, you’re one step closer to protecting yourself and your loved ones from unnecessary exposure to cancer-causing ingredients.