Chemicals and Kids - Be Safe!

Chemicals and Kids - Be Safe

We worry about our children taking drugs and the influence they have on our families. Well what about the hidden chemicals that our families and our children are exposed to every day. The Guardian.co.uk reported November 6 that children are exposed to chemicals in domestic products such as rubber clogs and sun tan lotions.  Doesn't this concern you?

One of the biggest concerns is the cumulative effect of the chemical phthalates, which is used as softeners in soap, rubber shoes and soft toys. The guardian.co.uk identifies this chemical as blocking the action of testosterone in the womb, also alleged to cause low sperm counts and high rates of testicular cancer. With those credentials why is it allowed around people and in particular children?

Hormone disrupting chemicals

Chemicals have been shown to disrupt the normal growth in fetuses. A recent Denmark study has shown a significant increase in the rates of testicular cancer. The Danish study identifies predominantly oil based moisturizing creams and sunscreen for the appearance of the preservative Paraben. The Paraben have been identified as a hormone disrupter which poses a risk to children and fetuses.


We were worried about DDT, PCBs and other chemicals.  Can Paraben be posing the same problems?

So what do we do.  Paraben is a chemical used in cosmetics to preserve them.   What alternatives are there?





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Parabens- What are they and why do I care?

Parabens- What are they and why do I care?


Paraben, or meythylparaben, ethylparaben, and propylparaben etc. are one of those in a long list of ingredients listed on the back of your latest cosmetic or hair product purchase. At least it is if your products are not ‘natural’.

Their names are difficult to get your mouth around but they are the most widely used preservatives in cosmetics and personal products. They are cheap and effective and are used to prevent fungal growth in creams shampoos, and colour treatments for the past 70 years. No some feel that they may actually be harmful.

Paraben’s ability to mimic estrogen, and the fact that they have been found in breast cancer tumours is cause for concern. With the rise in cancer and some history of cancer in your family tree is enough for some people to search out “paraben free” products.

Rather than waiting for scientific evidence some enterprising entrepreneurs have developed natural personal care and natural hair care products.

Natural Hair Care

Celebrity colourist Louise Galvin has over 20 years' experience in the hair colouring industry and has developed the Louise Galvin Sacred Locks haircare line.

Now shipping internationally, the Louise Galvin website (louisegalvin.com) has responded to the increasing demand for her products. In addition to not testing on animals, her site boasts that merchandise contain natural or naturally derived products.

Her commitment to the environment is apparent and any greenhouse gases are off-set through investment in The Carbon Neutral Company.

In addition to being Paraben free the natural hair care line is free of:

• sulphates,

• silicone,

• petrochemicals

• synthetic fragrances and

• Polymers.

It is easy to navigate and a great selection of products, ranging from “gentle and cleansing moisturizers for your body”, to special nourishment for dry and damaged hair, this site is a great place to get your natural hair products.




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