Beyond an increased chance of dryness and irritation, studies have shown that certain ingredients found in soaps can be potentially harmful. Again, the long-term effects of synthetic chemicals on the body are still unknown. However, many are linked to cancer, birth defects, reproductive issues, obesity, and more.
One of the potentially harmful ingredients found in many soaps and other beauty products is parabens. Parabens are synthetic compounds commonly used to stop the growth of bacteria, fungus, and other potentially harmful organisms. However, research has shown they disrupt hormone production, which is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer and reproductive problems. Another study has shown that nearly every single woman with breast cancer has one or more paraben chemicals in her breast tissue, suggesting a possible link. In the particular study, it was found that 99 percent of the breast tissue samples contained at least one type of paraben, while 60 percent contained at least five. Endocrine disruptors are also thought to be particularly harmful to male reproductive systems, and can potentially cause testicular cancer, infertility, deformation of genitals, and undescended testicles. There is also evidence linking endocrine-disrupting chemicals to neurobehavioral problems and obesity.
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and other surfactants are used in soaps as an inexpensive, yet effective way to increase lather. SLS tends to dry out the skin, and can cause skin and eye irritation, rashes, and other allergic reactions. Some products containing SLS also have traces of a carcinogen known as 1,4-dioxane, which is formed during the production process.
Petrolatum is often listed on labels as petroleum jelly or mineral oil. It is derived from petroleum, and can lead to chapping and dry skin despite its purpose of preventing those very symptoms. Like parabens, petrolatum as been found in breast tumors, and is thought to contribute to premature aging, acne, and increased sun damage. Petrolatum also tends to be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are classified as probable or possible carcinogens.
Synthetic fragrances, which are often listed simply as fragrances or perfume, are another example of a potentially harmful ingredient. While they can be made in many different ways from more than 3,000 possible substances, nearly all of the chemicals used in synthetic fragrances are derived from crude oil and include substances linked to birth defects, central nervous system disorders, hormone disruption, allergic reactions, and cancer.
Synthetic Ingredients to Look Out for in Personal Hygiene Products: