5 Unknown Toxic Chemicals in Perfumes

16 Jan 5 Unknown Toxic Chemicals in Perfumes

For years, high-end fragrances and celebrity-recommended perfumes and colognes were a highly desired, novelty item. Smelling of Chanel or Dolce & Gabbana Light Blue was considered a sign of luxury that only a person of status might afford.

However, according to statistics, sales of extravagant fragrance products like these have dropped significantly in the last few years. It’s possible that one reason for this is that the world is becoming more informed about the toxic nature of these products. Although unfortunate for these companies, experts from the best online casinos in the usa like to consider this is overall good news.

STYRENE.

Styrene is a flammable liquid that’s used to make polystyrene plastics, fiberglass, rubber, and latex. In 2011, it was declared an ‘anticipated human carcinogen’ by the National Toxicology Program and the National Academy of Science. With long term exposure, styrene is known to cause central nervous system and kidney effects, headaches, depression, fatigue & weakness, hearing loss, balance & concentration problems, and cancer.

PHTHALATES.

Phthalates are a family of industrial chemicals used as solvents in cosmetics and other consumer products. They are known to damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, and reproductive system. Recent studies in human populations confirm the adverse impacts of phthalates on male reproductive tract development first identified in many experimental animal studies. A systematic review also finds that higher exposures are associated with sperm abnormalities and lower testosterone levels, courtesy of online casino games real money.

MUSK KETONE.

Musk ketone is a synthetic compound with a typical musk odor that’s widely used in cosmetics. In a 2010 study, 17 tested fragrances contained an average of four hormone-disrupting ingredients each, including synthetic musks and diethyl phthalate. Synthetic musks mimic and displace natural hormones, which can potentially disrupt important endocrine and biological processes. High levels of musk ketone in women’s blood may also be associated with gynecological abnormalities such as ovarian failure and infertility. Synthetic musks have also been linked to brain cell degeneration.

BENZYL ACETATE.

Benzyl acetate is a compound that has a sweet aroma, similar to jasmine. It’s used a ton in making perfume and cosmetics for its aroma and in flavorings to impart apple and pear flavors. Benzyl acetate is also used as a solvent in plastics and resin, cellulose acetate, nitrate, oils, lacquers, polishes and inks. The downside here is… it’s a known carcinogen, particularly causing pancreatic cancer.

METHYLENE CHLORIDE.

Methylene chloride is a solvent which is used in many different types of work activities, such as paint stripping, polyurethane foam manufacturing, cleaning, and degreasing. Since 1994, this ingredient has been known to increase the risk of developing cancer; adverse effects on the heart, central nervous system & liver; and skin or eye irritation. It’s also long been labeled as ‘probably carcinogenic to humans’. The FDA banned this ingredient in perfumes in 1988 due to such severe toxicity, however, the ban isn’t enforced very well as it may still be found in labels listing “fragrance” as an ingredient.