According to foreign research, avoiding the use of cosmetics for three days can reduce the amount of harmful compounds in the body by half.
The study targeted adolescent girls, who often have limited purchasing power and may opt for cheaper cosmetic brands containing more chemicals. These harmful compounds increase the risk of cancer and disrupt female hormones, which can be particularly harmful during a girl’s developmental years. Cosmetics, shampoos, moisturizers, nail polish, and other products all contain these chemicals, making girls particularly vulnerable.
Researchers asked 100 adolescent girls to stop using their usual cosmetics and provided them with alternatives that did not contain specific compounds, including phthalates, parabens, triclosan, and oxybenzone. These compounds are commonly used as solvents, preservatives, antibacterials, and sunscreens in personal care products. After three days without these products, the girls’ urine was tested and compared to their initial levels. The study found that the specific compounds in their urine were reduced by up to 45%.
The study’s results show that a simple action like avoiding products with specific compounds can significantly reduce the presence of harmful chemicals in the body, decreasing the risk of cancer and other diseases. However, the problem is that manufacturers continue to produce these harmful products even though they are aware of the risks, and consumers continue to use them. The lack of legislation to regulate the amount of these chemicals in products is a significant issue, and most consumers may not even be aware of the ingredients in the products they use.
Cosmetics are not inherently dangerous, and the key is for consumers to have enough information and knowledge to make informed decisions. While the road to legislative regulation may be long, it is essential for consumers to do their research and pay attention to information to avoid unknowingly harming their bodies with harmful compounds.