JOY FEELINGS MAGAZINE December 2016 New Year issue | Page 70

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It is recognized as a neurotoxin by the US National
Institute for Occupational Health and Safety, and it may
cause kidney damage. The Material Safety Data Sheet for
propylene glycol warns workers handling this chemical to
avoid skin contact.
Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats) - Listed
on labels as benzalkonium chloride, cetrimonium bromide
and quaternium-15, these compounds are caustic and can
irritate the eyes. Quaternium-15 is a formaldehyde
releaser and the number one cause of preservative-related
contact dermatitis. For about 5% of people, quats are an
extreme sensitizer and can cause a variety of asthma-like
symptoms, including respiratory arrest. When they are
used with hot running water, steam increases the
inhalation of vapours. These compounds are used in a
wide range of products as preservatives, surfactants and
germicides. They make hair and skin feel softer
immediately after use but long-term use will cause
dryness.
Selenium Sulfide- Selenium sulfide is an anti-dandruff
and hair conditioning agent found in shampoos,
conditioners and dandruff treatments. It is believed to be a
neurotoxin and it is classified as a possible human
carcinogen by both Environment Canada and the US
National Toxicology Program.

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