Revealed: the secret truth about the beauty industry (part 5)

1.4-Dioxane

Diethylene Oxide is carcinogenic. Yet, one out of two commercial cosmetic product contains it. This compound emerges as a by-product of tensides (a substance responsible for foaming) and therefore it’s not mandatory to indicate as an ingredient.

It has proven carcinogenic in a number of tests: it has been linked to the formation of liver-, gall bladder-, lung-, and skin tumours.

1.4 Dioxane is a noxious ingredient of cosmetics, shampoos and detergents so it can enter your body in a number of ways: by inhalation, through the mouth or through the skin. It’s particularly important to avoid its application on injured, irritated skin.

It’s highly dangerous because it’s absorbed quickly and easily into the skin where it damages the membrane of the cells and weakens the skin’s natural defence – i.e. it makes it easier for other toxins to enter your body. It damages the eyes, lungs and leads to dry, cracked skin. It can harm the liver and the kidney too and if you inhale it you risk respiratory diseases. And what’s even more alarming is the fact that high concentration of dioxane has been found in kids’ toys.
You won’t find it among the ingredients by this name – but if you spot one of the names below, think twice. Every ingredient whose name ends with ‘eth’ (myreth, oleth, laureth, ceteareth) or ‘-oxynol’ can contain dioxane. Some examples:
Products which warrant some vigilance:
It’s best to throw away all cosmetics which contain synthetic colours, scents and other chemicals. Take control over your skin’s health now!

Have a wonderful an chemical-free day,
Andrea Varga-Darabos

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