Mouthwash, laundry detergent, sunscreen, hand sanitizer, deodorant, dental floss, chapstick-just a few items we routinely use to save us time and trick us into thinking they’re actually good for us. But it’s those same items that are breaking down our health and the health of the environment around us. These common items can be full of toxic chemicals, fragrances, and dyes that are causing more harm than good. With our skin being the largest organ in our body and the first line of defense, it would be prudent to keep chemicals and synthetic ingredients out, as what touches the skin is absorbed through its pores. It definitely can be overwhelming figuring out what products are safe and which are not, but we need to start somewhere. After you finish your spray deodorant, chapstick, or mouthwash, look for a more natural product that you can trust and won’t harm your body. If you can avoid even the smallest amount of chemicals and toxins, you and your family are exposed to, why not?
Similar to big food and other manufacturers, many companies don’t care or consider how their product is affecting our health. As consumers, we have to take action and do the necessary research to ensure the products we are using are ultimately safe. Check out below for helpful hints on what to do when buying these everyday items.
- Buy from transparent brands
- Avoid artificial fragrances
- Avoid flavored
- Look for natural and organic ingredients
- Do your research before buying
- Use the Think Dirty App
- Visit the EWG.org
To MAS Health,
Michael