A number of cosmetic products, be it makeup or skin care, contain a number of chemicals in them. Unfortunately, among these materials, there are types that are declared harmful to the environment.
In addition to having a bad impact on the environment, these harmful cosmetic ingredients are also at risk of causing health problems for their users. In order to avoid these dangers, know what are the chemicals in cosmetics that can harm the environment through the following reviews.
- BHA and BHT
Both are popular preservatives that are commonly found in moisturizers or makeup products. BHA and BHT, according to experts, are chemicals that tend to be toxic to marine life. BHT has also been studied to have moderate to high bioaccumulation potential in marine species.
Bioaccumulation itself is the accumulation of chemical substances in the body of an organism. This occurs when the absorption of a chemical substance in an organism is relatively faster than the process of removing it.
- Parabens
Parabens are used as preservatives in cosmetics and are among many chemicals banned in Europe. Researchers have found parabens in the tissues of marine animals, such as dolphins and sea otters.
According to environmentalists, parabens have been linked to ecological damage. These chemicals can kill coral reefs and can cause reproductive problems in animals.
- Triclosan
This ingredient is commonly used in some antibacterial products, such as facial cleansers and shampoos. Triclosan is associated with an increase in antibiotic-resistant organisms that increase the risk of infection. In addition, when triclosan is in waterways, it can alter the biochemistry of amphibians, fish, and aquatic plants.
The European Union classifies this material as potentially causing long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment. Not quickly degraded, triclosan also tends to accumulate and react with other chemicals in waterways to form toxic dioxins.
- Siloxanes
Siloxanes is a type of silicone and is commonly used in moisturizer, primer, or facial serum product, thanks to its ability to soften the skin. Unfortunately, this chemical is considered harmful to the environment.
A large study conducted in Norway showed a buildup of siloxanes in waters or oceans. This condition also has a negative impact on the aquatic food chain, because it is toxic to fish or other aquatic organisms.
- Plastic Microbeads
This content has actually been banned in the UK and the United States. However, there are some countries that still allow its use in cosmetic products. Usually, plastic microbeads are found in facial exfoliators and body scrubs.
Its use is considered dangerous for the environment, because it can accumulate in the sea and is toxic to organisms in the sea. Moreover, small fish also see this material as food for them.
- Synthetic Fragrances
You probably already know that fragrance is one of the most popular ingredients used in cosmetic products. The aroma of the product is also a mixture of several types of chemicals.
However, manufacturers are not required to mention on the label what chemicals are used. So, consumers tend not to know whether the fragrances in the products used are safe for the environment or not.
According to a 2005 study, the ingredients in synthetic fragrances have been shown to be harmful to the marine environment. Wastewater treatment plants don’t break them down, which means they enter rivers and oceans through sewage disposal.
Find eco-friendly cosmetic products only at RamahBhumi online store.