Global Health Asia-Pacific September 2020 September 2020 | Page 69

safety of commercial hair dye products, most still contain toxic chemicals such as Quaternium-15 that can release formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, Alkylphenol ethoxylates (A��s), a hormone disruptor, and �henylenediamine (��D), a skin and respiratory irritant that’s been classified in the �uropean Union as toxic and dangerous to the environment. Research has also shown that ��D can lead to cancer when combined with hydrogen peroxide. This highly toxic chemical causes methemoglobinemia, a condition that restricts oxygen and causes the skin to turn a bluish/ grey colour. Commercial hair dye may also contain lead Lead is also frequently used in hair dye. It seems unimaginable that it’s still being used today since the scientific community has been telling us for years that lead is deadly and, the darker your hair dye, the more likely it is to contain lead. Also look for the word ‘acetate’ in the list of ingredients and avoid it at all costs. If you’re pregnant, avoid dyeing your hair. A growing foetus is vulnerable at any stage, so it’s not worth the risk. �verything that you consume, whether orally or through the skin, trickles down to your unborn baby, and chemicals can have a devastating effect. Most noteworthy, leukaemia is frequently linked to chemicals in hair dyes. Be aware! Be conscious of other toxic chemical haircare ingredients: Imidazolidinyl urea and DMDM hydantoin Imidazolidinyl urea and DMDM hydantoin release formaldehyde, an ingredient used by morticians to preserve corpses. In addition, these chemicals are used, along with parabens, to preserve skin, body, and hair products. The longer they fester on shelves, the more harmful they become. With time, these toxic compounds release formaldehyde which also irritates the skin and weakens the immune system. If all this wasn’t scary enough, these chemicals are also linked to a myriad of other diseases and health problems. These include allergies, chest pain, chronic fatigue, depression, dizziness, ear infections, headaches, joint pain, loss of sleep, and even cancer. The American Academy of Dermatology found that they’re a primary cause of contact dermatitis. Polyethene glycol (PEG 12) increases cancer risks This synthetic chemical is found in many cosmetics, cleansers, conditioners, oven cleaners, and humectants. It’s also often used as a thickening agent in shampoos as it can dissolve oil and grease build-up on hair. chemical is found in toothpaste, cosmetics, soap, body washes, hair products, cleaning products, hand sanitisers, plastics, and even children’s toys. In fact, it is found in so many everyday products that it’s incredibly hard not to be exposed to it. Triclosan is registered as a pesticide by the US �nvironmental �rotection Agency, which means it’s highly toxic to most living organisms. It’s also classified as a chlorophenol, which is in the same class as other cancer-causing chemicals. This toxic chemical has many worrying side effects linked to it, including paralysis, suppression of the immune system, brain haemorrhages, and heart problems. It can also affect our hormones, sexual function, and fertility. Recent studies found a link between the use of Triclosan and the disruption of the endocrine system in animals. Other research studies have indicated that this chemical helps create antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) can remove protective barrier from your scalp and skin (and baby skin) SLS is a synthetic ingredient that creates lather and suds in your shampoo – but that’s pretty much the only ‘good’ thing about it. This chemical is corrosive and can remove the protective layer of our skin. This compound is associated with eye irritation, skin rashes, hair loss, and liver problems. This chemical should never be applied to your body. Unfortunately, most hair products contain SLS. If you’re pregnant, avoid dyeing your hair. A growing foetus is vulnerable at any stage, so it’s not worth the risk PHOTO: NAVEDA Toxic chemical Triclosan’s worrying side effects such as paralysis and heart problems Triclosan is a synthetic antibacterial agent. This Scalp analysis GlobalHealthAsiaPacific.com SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER 2020 67