MCS is a health disorder that occurs after a person has acute short-term exposure to a chemical or long-term exposure to multiple chemicals.  This disorder is more complex than symptoms of office stress or depression.  Depression hurts and it can be one of the illnesses associated with MCS, but MCS affects more then one area of the body and can affect both the body and mind.

Over 150 harmful chemicals used as body care ingredients were exempt from a ban that occurred in 1938 when the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act was passed.  As a consequence, the FDA cannot remove these items from the market.  Harmful ingredients are comprised of tiny molecules that absorb into the skin, then the blood stream, and build up in organs in the body.

Manufacturers of body care products often design packaging and the list of ingredients to emphasize the healthy aspects of the product.  For instance, using product photography, one company shows a picture of a green leaf on the front of their package, despite the fact that there are 5 ingredients in their product that are known to cause cancer.

What are some of these chemicals?

Research has shown that hair coloring products derived from coal tar are carcinogenic.

Sodium Laureth or Lauryl Sulfate (SLES/SLS), found in a variety of body care products, may contain dioxane and nitrosamines, which are known to cause cancer.  SLES/SLS can hurt many areas of the body, including the development of the eyes in young children and  poor development of their teeth. In addition, it can cause cataracts and hair loss in adults.

Perfumes and colognes used in skin care products and cleaning solutions are potentially carcinogenic and can cause cognitive difficulties.  In fact, the Calvin Klein fragrance “Eternity” was analyzed during an independently-funded study and was found to contain ingredients that are known to cause neurological problems; some are even included on the hazardous waste list.

Some companies place the words, “floral waters”, “water extracts” and “infusions” at the top of the ingredient list, pushing the chemical ingredients closer toward the bottom of the list.  Therefore, consumers may think that there is a higher concentration of healthy ingredients in the product and fewer unhealthy ingredients.  These “healthy” ingredients like floral water are not necessarily harmful or helpful.

So what can you do to help ensure that the body care products you use have organic ingredients?

If you’d like to save money and want to customize a product that’s just right for you, you can make your own blends.  You’ll find recipes on the web for shampoos, soaps, bath salts and face masks.

If you prefer not to make your own products, then make sure to use products with agricultural feedstocks that are organic.  Ideally, each ingredient should have as little toxic content as possible.  In addition, ingredients labeled as “floral waters”, “water extracts” and “infusions” should not be counted as organic content or healthy content.  Lastly, rely on the customer service people at your local health food store or on online websites to provide you with knowledge.  Often they are well educated in their field.