Chemical Descriptions

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DBP - Dibutylphthalate:

DBP is a man-made chemical used as an ingredient in plastics, paints and personal care products. It can be toxic to wildlife. Excessive exposure to Dibutylphthalate may affect the digestive system, eye, liver, reproductive system and the unborn child. DBP is banned for use in cosmetic products in the European Union.

Toluene:

Toluene is a colourless, highly flammable chemical liquid that is found naturally in crude oil. Toluene can be toxic to wildlife. It is also a Volatile Organic Compound (VOC), which can contribute to the formation of harmful ground level ozone or smogs. Excessive exposure to Toluene may affect the brain, eye, throat and the unborn child.

Formaldehyde:

Formaldehyde is both a common naturally occurring chemical and is manufactured by man. It is a colourless, flammable gas and is also often used as a solution in water, which is known as 'Formalin'. It can be toxic to wildlife. It is also a volatile organic compound (VOC), which can contribute to the formation of harmful ground level ozone. Excessive exposure to Formaldehyde may affect the eye, lung, skin and throat, and may cause cancer.

Paraben:

Parabens are a chemical compound of Para-Hydroxybenzoic acid, and common types of Parabens include Butyl, Propyl and Ethyl Parabens. Less common types include Benzylparaben and Isobutylparaben. For many years, Parabens have been considered safe, both in the UK and overseas, as they are virtually non-toxic. However, several studies in recent years have suggested that Parabens might be more harmful than we think, although many results are inconclusive. Studies have found that the biggest risk from Parabens seems to be from the use of products that require a prolonged exposure to skin, such as skin creams and facial lotions. The longer that the Parabens are on the skin, the more opportunity there is for Parabens to be absorbed. One type of Paraben - Methylparaben - has also been linked to the premature aging of skin. A study undertaken in Japan indicated that certain cosmetic products may cause skin to age excessively when exposed to ultra-violet rays. Ironically, this compound can be commonly found in products designed to fight the effects of aging. Some tests have indicated that Parabens have caused an increase in Oestrogen which can possibly affect the male and female reproductive organs. One of the biggest areas of concern is the effect of Parabens on breast cancer. Several studies have found traces of Parabens in women with breast cancer. There seems little doubt that Parabens can affect breast tissue - but whether they actually increase the possibility of breast cancer is still uncertain.

Bismuth Oxychloride:

Bismuth Oxychloride is a natural ingredient found in the majority of mineral cosmetics. It is the main irritant in some brands of mineral cosmetics. Though a natural by-product, bismuth oxychloride often causes itching, rashes and mild to severe cystic acne.

Talc:

Talc is a mineral, produced by the mining of talc rocks and then processed by crushing, drying and milling. Processing eliminates a number of trace minerals from the talc, but does not separate minute fibres which are very similar to Asbestos. Talc is closely related to the potent carcinogen Asbestos. Talc particles have been shown to cause tumours in the ovaries and lungs of cancer victims. For the last 30 years, scientists have closely scrutinized talc particles and found dangerous similarities to Asbestos.