Dear reader,
We are in a cancer epidemic- every year, breast cancer rates increase by 0.5%; from 1990-2019, overall cancer rates have increased by 79.1%. In order to decrease our personal chances, it’s important that we take a look at what we put on or in our bodies. Each of us should be making daily choices to help live long, fulfilling lives.
Part of the cause for the cancer epidemic is the toxins we put on our bodies through cosmetics. Around 27% of the 662 products tested by Valisure contained carcinogens- chemicals that have been linked to cancer. Of these products tested were major brands such as Pantene, Herbal Essences, Old Spice, Secret, Neutrogena and Aveeno- and that’s only in tests for benzene. Other products have taken to using chemicals that contain parabens or phthalates- both proven to increase the chance of breast cancer. When all toxins are accounted for, more than half of all products are contaminated by chemicals. Of every single American, around one in five use toxins each day on their skin.
It’s sad, to be entirely honest. Every generation, more chemicals are flooded into the body. By the time a baby is born, they’ve already been exposed to (on average) around 200 chemicals. Instead of caring about their market, companies are prioritizing sales and prices. Instead of considering the people affected, they drown products in toxins.
The best way to avoid toxins is to try and shop clean. Instead of buying a name brand, or the shampoo that claims to have the most benefits, try to instead look at the ingredients. Are there chemicals you can’t pronounce? Parabens? Phthalates? Known carcinogens? Of course, this requires a little bit of research, but with enough effort, you can make the toxin epidemic better- one person at a time.
- Sarah C. McCrillis