We live in a world where we are bombarded with artificial products. The chemicals that are often used to formulate these fragrances are toxic to the human body. Over 60% of what you put on your skin gets absorbed into your blood stream.
We’ve also seen a leap in allergies. This is not surprising considering thousands of chemicals are used to make these synthetic scents. Common symptoms of exposure include ear, nose and throat irritation, nausea and headaches.
Read the labels of the products you buy. If you see any of the mentioned chemicals, then try going for a natural alternative. If something is heavily scented, it is probably wise to avoid it.
• Parabens- a commonly used synthetic preservatives in many fragrances, they can interfere with the production and release of hormones.
• Phthalates- this popular fragrance preservative is usually highly concentrated in most commercial perfumes. A known carcinogen, health effects may include damage to liver/kidneys, birth defects, decreased sperm counts and early breast development in girls and boys.
• Synthetic Musk- studies have shown that several types of synthetic musk not only may disrupt hormones, but traces have been found in: fat tissue, breast milk, body fat, umbilical cord blood, both fresh and marine water samples, air, waste-water and sludge.
All are so dangerous to human health that the countries of the EU have acted. The most dangerous ones are named on the label :
Hydroxymethylpentyl cyclohexecarbonaldehyde (brand name Lyral)
2-(4 tert Butylbenzyl) Propionaldehyde
Methyl Heptin Carbonate
Oak Moss and Tree Moss extract
The EU has declared these ingredients to be dangerous we haven’t listed their health effects here. If they are subject to restriction in the countries of the EU, then the dangers they pose to human health are beyond argument.
Many artificial perfumes do contain natural, essential oils but typically it is a small percentage. While naturals are very expensive and rare vs. synthetic . Man-made fragrances also have stronger staying power than naturals.