Common Toxic Ingredients Found in Soap

and why you should avoid them!

Did you know there are toxic ingredients commonly found in conventional soap?  Body soap is an essential part of our daily hygiene routine, but not all soaps are created equal. Many popular body soaps contain a variety of toxic ingredients that can harm our skin and overall health. In this blog post, we will discuss five common toxic ingredients found in body soap and why you should avoid them.

Parabens

Parabens are a type of preservative commonly used in soaps to extend their shelf life. However, they have been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer and hormone disruption.

EWG.org has this to say about Parabens: “The concern with these chemicals is that scientific studies suggest that parabens can disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility and reproductive organs, affect birth outcomes, and increase the risk of cancer. They can also cause skin irritation.”

 

Sulfates

Sulfates, such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), are common ingredients in soaps that are used to create a lather. However, they can be harsh on the skin and can cause irritation, dryness, and even allergic reactions.

According to WebMD.com “Dry skin is a common health effect of sulfates in consumer products. Whether from laundry detergent, soap, or shampoo, the sulfates can cause reactions in sensitive people. Sometimes, sulfates like SLS and SLES end up removing too much oil, washing off the skin’s protective barrier and causing redness and dry, itchy skin.”

Artificial Fragrance

Many soaps contain artificial fragrances, which can be a source of irritation and allergic reactions. They can also contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed through the skin.

“Fragranced products have been associated with a range of adverse health effects, such as migraine headaches, asthma attacks, respiratory difficulties, neurological problems, mucosal symptoms, and contact dermatitis.”, according to this National Library of Medicine report.

Phthalates

Phthalates are a type of chemical used to increase the flexibility and durability of products. They are often used in body soaps and other personal care products, but they have been linked to a number of health problems, including hormone disruption and cancer.

Triclosan

Triclosan is a chemical used in body soaps and other personal care products to reduce bacteria and odours. However, it has been linked to a number of health problems, including hormone disruption and antibiotic resistance.

In conclusion, it is important to be aware of the ingredients in your soap and to choose products that are free of these toxic ingredients. Instead, opt for natural and organic body soaps that are made with ingredients that are gentle on the skin and safe for use.  One such product is Cherish Beauty Natural Hand & Body Soap. Be mindful of the ingredients in your body soap and always read the label before purchasing.