Your Wellness Matters - Chemical Awareness

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There are over 80,000 manmade chemicals known to be in use by millions of people worldwide. While some governing authorities advise that these chemicals are safe in low doses, there is a growing body of scientific evidence that suggests otherwise.  Everything we breathe, drink, eat or apply to our skin is absorbed into our bodies. Every 'body system' is compromised in some way, and has to work harder when a substance is toxic or too complex for the natural functions that keep us well.
A national study on chemical exposure called, "Is It In Us?" revealed that phthalates, BPA, PBDEs were found in blood sample from EVERY PERSON who took part in the study.  Less than 100 years a go man-made, synthetic chemicals were used sparingly and cautiously.  Now, chemicals surround us. We breathe, ingest and absorb them - and we accept this as a fact of science in modern life and we pay with the health consequences that unfold.

We have adopted alcohols, chlorines, detergents, emulsifiers, synthetic fragrances and dyes, heavy metals, pesticides and fungicides, petrochemicals, preservatives and drugs as every day necessity. The time has come to question if it's worth it or is there a better choice?
There are was to help reduce exposure to these chemicals. The best way may seem old fashioned, but it works: 
Make your own products and grow your own food.
top purchasing and using chemical-laden products that do not have an immediate or proven impact that supports your well being! Question "the science," the resources, and source(s) of every product.
Beauty is more than skin deep.

These are some of the most commonly ingredients found in popular beauty products, and worth avoiding:
Lead is a toxic heavy metal which is more prevalent than ever.
It is found in whitening toothpastes and lipsticks, and in other substances. The adverse effects of lead exposure are thoroughly documented and include, neurotoxicity (brain damage), seizures, gastrointestinal issues, reproductive dysfunction such as reduced sperm count and motility, and kidney dysfunction.
Formaldehyde is used in nail polish, shampoos, baby shampoos, and liquid body soaps. Side effects include skin irritation and nausea. Formaldehyde exposure may be a contributing factor in cancer development. (International Agency for Research.)
Parabens are used as a preservative and are noted as proplyparaben, methylparaben, ethylparaben and butylparaben. They are found in body creams, lotions and shampoos, as well as in almost any beauty product that has water added to it. Parabens have been shown to not only disrupt hormones, but also to potentially cause cancer.
Phthalates were found in at least 72 products tested, although it was not listed on any list of ingredients. The only exception was nail polish. This toxic chemical is a fragrance used in vinyl shower curtains (it gives vinyl its smell), air fresheners, detergents and more. Like parabens, phthalates have been shown to disrupt hormones and decrease sperm count.
BHA and BHT Used mainly in moisturizers and makeup as preservatives. Suspected endocrine disruptors. May cause cancer (BHA). Harmful to fish and other wildlife.
Nitrosamines are not often listed as an ingredient on cosmetic products because they are seen as impurities, not actual ingredients. This toxin is so prolific, it is found in almost every skin care product. It's in baby shampoos, tanning lotions, mascara, concealer - and the list goes on. Many studies link nitrosamine to cancer. In 1996, the FDA suggested cosmetic manufacturers remove any "causative agents that create nitrosamine." This suggestion has been largely ignored, as the Environmental Workings Group found that 1 in 10 cosmetics still contain combinations of ingredients that create nitrosamines.
Sodium laureth sulfate Used in some foaming cosmetics, such as shampoos, cleansers and bubble bath. Can be contaminated with 1, 4-dioxane, which may cause cancer.
Coal Tar dyes p-phenylenediamine and colours listed as "CI" followed by five digits. P-phenylenediamine is used in some hair dyes; other colours are used in a variety of cosmetics. Potential to cause cancer and may be contaminated with heavy metals that are toxic to the brain and central nervous system.
DEA-related ingredients Used in some cream and foaming products, such as moisturizers and shampoos. Can react to form nitrosamines, which may cause cancer. Harmful to fish and other wildlife.
Dibutyl phthalate Used as a plasticizer in some nail care products. Suspected endocrine disrupter and reproductive toxicant. Harmful to fish and wildlife.
Parfum: Any mixture of fragrance ingredients used in a variety of cosmetics. Some fragrance ingredients can trigger allergies and asthma. Some linked to cancer and neurotoxicity. Some harmful to fish and other wildlife.
Petrolatum: Used in some hair products for shine and as a moisture barrier in some lip sticks and moisturizers. Can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, which may cause cancer.
Siloxanes: Used in a variety of cosmetics to soften, smooth and moisten. Suspected endocrine disrupter and reproductive toxicant. Harmful to fish and other wildlife.
PEGs (e.g. PEG-60): Used in some cosmetic cream bases. Can be contaminated with 1, 4-dioxane, which may cause cancer.
Triclosan: Used in some antibacterial cosmetics, such as toothpastes, cleansers and deodorants. Suspected endocrine disrupter and may contribute to antibiotic resistance in bacteria and gut flora. Harmful to fish and other wildlife.
Masked Language: Fragrance formulas are considered "trade secrets" so the ingredients in fragrances are not required to be listed. Dating back to Roman times "Intellectual Property" was a principal securing the master's position. Trade Secrets incited Patent Laws (1938 Act) which were quickly leveraged for Free Trade and global marketing to protect the industry, not the consumer.

​The cosmetic, personal care, and household product industries will continue to supply what the consumer demands. Every dollar spent is a message. If we buy something, the market will keep making it and selling it. When mothers, fathers, grandparents, teachers, physicians, housekeepers, gardeners, farmers, lawyers and scientists unite to protect human health and our planet's precious, limited resources, a whole new way of life will unfold.
Some careers will have to shift! Science, that supports product development won't end. Consumer's still want proof that "someone knows more than they do." It takes unbiased objectivity for "science" to alter a core belief like: isolated, manmade chemicals are good for us. We can see the potential of whole structures, left intact, might be safer. Let's support "science" that honors our relationship with nature!
Let's take simple steps to transfer old habits using chemicals and cosmetics that are harming us and the
environment, to plants that 'do not harm.' Let's be more mindful of body wash, shampoos and detergents that may contain 22 toxic chemicals, or deodorants that clog our lymphatic system with heavy metals. Maybe, take time to look up the chemicals that manufacturer's patent and ask why they are protected from revealing "trade secrets."
Let's support Young Living and companies like them who offer whole, natural products and are role models in the wellness industry. We appreciate how Young Living invites the public to their farms where essential oils are sourced, harvested, distilled and tested for purity and integrity from *Seed to Seal. They are recognized as one of the world leaders encouraging people to know where their products come from, how a relationship with plants is critical, and that organic farming methods mean a sustainable future for everyone's well being.
The Future of Clean Products is to live in harmony with the earth and with each other. If we take care of our bodies, our skin, our lungs, our nutritional requirements and hydration, we could live long, vibrant lives. If we support each other as "students of the Wellness Industry or educators on behalf of our natural relationship with plants," we can play a vital role in the changes we want to see in the world.