Do Cosmetics Cause Cancer?

Do Cosmetics Cause Cancer
Have you been unknowingly increasing your cancer risk for the sake of beauty? It depends on what products you use. “There are concerns with beauty products that contain endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). These chemicals may interfere with your hormonal system,” says Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., MD Anderson professor and director of the Integrative Medicine Program.

While a direct link between EDCs and cancer is not yet definitive, certain cancers are hormonally-driven,” Cohen explains.
They include breast, prostate, ovarian and endometrial cancers.
Other beauty and personal care products contain small quantities of known cancer-causing chemicals.
Even a low dose should cause concern, especially if you use the product every day,” Cohen says.

But don’t cancel your beauty appointment just yet. Currently, there are no definitive links to cancer. Instead, Cohen advises that you get informed and take proper precautions. Here’s what you need to know. Hair dye: cancer risk unclear Hair dye products include close to 5,000 chemicals, including some that might cause cancer.

Researchers have been studying the possible cancer link for decades. In the mid to late 70s, scientists found chemicals in hair dye that caused cancer in animals. Hair dye makers removed some of these chemicals, but scientists aren’t sure if the remaining chemicals cause cancer. In fact, the National Cancer Institute says research on cancer and hair dye use is conflicting.

In other words, it’s unclear if using hair dye ups your cancer risk. Find out if your favorite hair dye has cancer-causing chemicals in the National Toxicology Program’s 13th Report on Carcinogens, Hair straightening products: high cancer risk for some Some hair straightening or smoothing products like the Brazilian Blowout contain formaldehyde, a known cancer-causing chemical.

If you work in a beauty salon, beware: the cancer risk may be high for people regularly exposed to formaldehyde in the workplace. And, the risk is highest when the product is being applied, putting stylists at greater risk. However, if you’re a customer who uses hair straightening products with formaldehyde, your cancer risk is low.

“But it’s best to take a precautionary approach and decrease exposure to known carcinogens,” Cohen says. “The long-term health effects of constant exposure are unclear and under investigation.” Bath and body care products: known endocrine disruptors Do you really know what’s in your bath and body care products? What you don’t know could hurt you.

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found the carcinogen 1,4-dioxane in 28% of all personal care products.
The Organic Consumers Association (OCA) found the same chemical in more than 40% of products labeled “natural.” This includes shampoos, soaps, and body-firming and anti-aging lotions.
Take note: 1,4-dioxane isn’t listed on product labels.

Some chemicals that may contain it include:

PEG Polyethylene Polyethylene glycol Polyoxyethylene Chemicals ending with –eth and –oxynol

Most product manufactures have removed known cancer-causing chemicals from baby care products, but adults may remain at risk. Keep in mind: a direct link between personal care products and cancer is not yet established. It’s not just carcinogens you should worry about, though.

EDCs like phthalates and parabens are in most personal care products,” Cohen says. “And, what comes in contact with your skin absorbs into your circulatory system, potentially affecting your hormone and immune system.” Endocrine disruptors have been associated with altering reproductive function in men and women, abnormal growth patterns, neurodevelopment delays and even an increased risk of breast cancer.

Also, fragrances are generally in personal care products to cover up the odor of toxic chemicals. And, many of them contain EDCs, allergens and neurotoxins. UV nail lamps: more research needed Nail salon dryers use UV nail lights to speed up the drying time of polish.

And, such lights are a cause for concern.
It appears that exposure to UV nail lights is a risk factor for developing skin cancer,” says Deborah F.
MacFarlane, M.D., professor in Dermatology at MD Anderson,
MacFarlane reports in a JAMA Dermatology article that two women developed skin cancer on their hands, both of whom had used UV nail lamps.

Another recent study reports the amount of UV light exposure varies from salon to salon, and for damage to occur, you’d have to visit a salon at least eight times. Even then, the risk for skin cancer remains small. “More research needs to be done to confirm there’s a link between UV nail lights and skin cancer,” MacFarlane says.

She suggests using non-UV options for drying your nails for now, especially if you visit salons regularly.
Make wise choices Your beauty shouldn’t come at the expense of your health.
So, until more is known, do your homework (use the EWG’s cosmetic database ), check product labels for ingredients and warnings, and try to avoid using products with known cancer-causing chemicals.

“A good rule of thumb: If you can’t pronounce the ingredient and you don’t know what it is, you should proceed with caution and seek more information,” Cohen says. Request an appointment at MD Anderson’s Lyda Hill Cancer Prevention Center online or call 877-632-6789.

Can cosmetics and toiletries cause cancer?

Can deodorant cause cancer? – No, using deodorants, antiperspirants and body sprays doesn’t cause cancer. Some people have wondered if aluminium in some deodorants and sprays increases cancer risk. There is no good evidence to suggest this. The NHS tells people not to use spray deodorants before a breast screening.

What chemicals cause skin cancer?

Exposure to certain chemicals – Being exposed to large amounts of arsenic increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Arsenic is an element found naturally in well water in some areas. It’s also used in making some pesticides and in some other industries. Workers exposed to coal tar, paraffin, and certain types of petroleum products may also have an increased risk of skin cancer.

Is shea butter carcinogenic?

Shea butter might be the world’s first skin care cream, one of the Queen of Sheba’s beauty secrets. This original, hand-crafted butter is high in vitamin A and E that heal and moisturize the skin. Its healing properties are well researched and documented for chapping, abrasions and insect bites.

Recent research shows its effectiveness in healing cuts, surgical incisions and minimizing tattoo scarring. Our Shea butter is hand-made. There are no chemical extraction, bleaching or whitening agents stripping its healing properties. Commercial pure white or deep yellow Shea butter uses carcinogenic hexane or other petroleum solvents.

After extraction, it is refined, bleached and deodorized which destroys any healing properties it had. Here’s what high quality Shea butter looks like and how to use it!

Can stress cause cancer?

Stress is a part of life. You feel it when you’re preparing for the holidays, stuck in traffic or worrying about a friend’s health. While a little stress is nothing to fret about, the kind of intense worry that lingers for weeks or months may make it hard for you to stay healthy.

Stress has a profound impact on how your body’s systems function,” says Lorenzo Cohen, Ph.D., professor of General Oncology and Behavioral Science, and director of the Integrative Medicine Program at MD Anderson.
Health experts are still sorting out whether stress actually causes cancer.
Yet there’s little doubt that it promotes the growth and spread of some forms of the disease.

Put simply, “stress makes your body more hospitable to cancer,” Cohen says. Not all stress is equally harmful There are two different types of stress, and only one seems to be really bad for your health, says Anil K. Sood, M.D., professor of Gynecologic Oncology and Reproductive Medicine at MD Anderson.

Short-term or acute stress, like the type you might feel before giving a speech or fighting holiday shopping crowds, tends to subside as soon as the event passes.
It’s stress that comes from situations you know you can manage or will be over at some set time,” Cohen says.
But long-term or chronic stress is more damaging.

That type of stress springs from situations that last many weeks or months with no definite end point. “Caring for a sick loved one or dealing with a long stint of unemployment are common causes of chronic stress,” Cohen says. This type of no-end-in-sight stress can weaken your immune system, leaving you prone to diseases like cancer.

It also ups your risk for digestive problems and depression. “Chronic stress also can help cancer grow and spread in a number of ways,” Sood says. Stress hormones can inhibit a process called anoikis, which kills diseased cells and prevents them from spreading, Sood says. Chronic stress also increases the production of certain growth factors that increase your blood supply.

This can speed the development of cancerous tumors, he adds. Find healthy ways to manage stress What can you do about stress? Removing the cause is the clear answer. But that’s not always possible when it comes to the types of things that cause chronic stress, Cohen says.

Even if you can’t rid yourself of the source of your stress, you can learn to manage it,
This can help you keep a lid on chronic stress.
It also can help you prevent minor sources of stress from lingering to a point where they’re affecting your health.
Below, Cohen shares stress-reducing strategies.
Talk to a professional A psychiatrist or psychologist can teach you healthy ways to manage your stress.

Strategies may include talk therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). These can help your brain uncover the connections between your thoughts, emotions and behaviors. “CBT can provide you with mental tools to manage the types of worry and anxiety that screw up your immune system and increase your disease risks,” Cohen says.

Practice meditation or yoga Mindfulness meditation and yoga have been proven to combat stress.
These movement-based activities give your mind a break from stress.
They also can improve your mood and quality of life.
Aim for at least two 20-minute periods a day of meditation or similar relaxation techniques, Cohen says.

That time shouldn’t include stimulating activities like watching television. “Sit quietly and try to keep your mind off any concerns. Think about visiting your favorite vacation spot or a quiet, safe place like your garden.” Mediation and yoga also can help your brain soften the links between your thoughts, your emotions and unhealthy biological changes, he says.

Put simply, these practices dampen your brain and body’s reactions to stressful events.
Get adequate sleep “Getting eight hours of sleep each night is a great defense against stress,” Cohen says.
Why? A full night of sleep is essential to proper immune function.
It also affects your mood, memory and ability to focus, experts say,

Sticking to a regular sleep schedule, avoiding TV in bed and exercising regularly can all help you sleep more soundly. Take stress seriously It’s important to understand the negative consequences of stress, especially when it comes to your cancer risks.

Chronic stress is not something anyone in our society should take lightly,” Cohen says. If you feel crankier than usual, you don’t have the energy you once had or you’re sleeping poorly, all of those could be signs of stress, Cohen says. Take steps to fix your problem before it affects your health in more serious ways.

Request an appointment at MD Anderson’s Lyda Hill Cancer Prevention Center online or call 877-632-6789.

What causes skin cancer?

Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays. To lower your risk of getting skin cancer, you can protect your skin from UV rays from the sun and from artificial sources like tanning beds and sunlamps.

What are 4 chemicals that cause cancer?

Certain chemicals, including benzene, beryllium, asbestos, vinyl chloride, and arsenic are known human carcinogens, meaning they have been found to cause cancer in humans.

What age does skin cancer start?

Skin Cancer (Non-Melanoma): Risk Factors and Prevention – ON THIS PAGE: You will find out more about the factors that increase the chance of developing non-melanoma skin cancer. Use the menu to see other pages. A risk factor is anything that increases a person’s chance of developing cancer.

Although risk factors can influence the development of cancer, most do not directly cause cancer. Some people with several risk factors never develop cancer, while others with no known risk factors do. Knowing your risk factors and talking about them with your doctor may help you make more informed lifestyle and health care choices.

The following factors may raise a person’s risk of developing non-melanoma skin cancer:

Sun exposure. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun plays a major role in the development of skin cancer. People who live at high altitudes or in areas with bright sunlight year-round have a higher risk of developing skin cancer. People who spend a lot of time outside during the midday hours also have a higher risk. Recreational suntanning should be avoided to reduce the risk of skin cancer. Exposure to ultraviolet type B (UVB) radiation appears to be more closely linked with skin cancer, but ultraviolet type A (UVA) may also play a role in the development of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma, UVB radiation causes sunburn and does not penetrate car windows or other types of glass. However, UVA can pass through glass and may cause aging and wrinkling of the skin in addition to skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB radiation (see “Prevention,” below). Because Merkel cell cancer often occurs on the sun-exposed areas of the head and neck, many doctors think that sun exposure may also be a risk factor for this type of cancer. Weakened or suppressed immune system. People with a weakened immune system due to a bone marrow/stem cell transplant, organ transplant, or a disease such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) or certain types of leukemia have a higher risk of developing skin cancer, particularly squamous cell carcinoma. People taking immunosuppressive drugs have the same higher risk. Indoor tanning. People who previously have used or actively use tanning beds, tanning parlors, or sun lamps have an increased risk of developing all types of skin cancer. There is no safe amount of indoor tanning. Any use of indoor tanning devices increases the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma, and this risk increases with more use of indoor tanning. Fair skin/complexion. People with lighter colored skin, blond or red hair, blue eyes, and freckles are at increased risk for developing skin cancer. People whose skin has a tendency to burn rather than tan also have an increased risk. However, all people, regardless of skin color, are at risk for developing skin cancer. Race/ethnicity. Lighter-skinned people are more likely to develop basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, Merkel cell cancer, and melanoma. However, darker-skinned people can still develop the disease. Precancerous skin conditions. Rough, red, or brown scaly patches on the skin, called actinic keratoses or Bowen’s disease, are usually more common in areas exposed to the sun. These areas can change into squamous cell cancers in a small number of people. The more actinic keratoses a person has, the higher the risk that they will develop a squamous cell carcinoma. Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen throughout the year that protects against both UVA and UVB radiation and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or more helps decrease the risk of developing actinic keratoses. See the “Prevention” section below for more information about protecting your skin from the sun. Gender. The number of older White men and younger White women who have developed skin cancer in recent years has increased. Also, in general, men are more likely to develop Merkel cell cancer. Age. Most basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas typically appear after age 50. However, in recent years, the number of skin cancers in people age 65 and older has increased dramatically. This may be due in part to better screening and patient tracking efforts in skin cancer. Younger people can also develop non-melanoma skin cancer, especially if they have lighter skin, an inherited (genetic) syndrome that puts them at high risk (see below), or been exposed to significant amounts of radiation or UV radiation from the sun. Merkel cell cancer is most common in people older than age 70. A history of sunburns or fragile skin. Skin that has been burned, sunburned, or injured from disease has a higher risk of skin cancer. Squamous cell and basal cell carcinoma occur more often in people who have more exposure to the sun or other sources of UV radiation over their lifetime. Previous skin cancer. People who have had any form of skin cancer have a higher risk of developing another skin cancer. From 35% to 50% of people diagnosed with 1 basal cell carcinoma will develop a new skin cancer within 5 years. Therefore, people who have had 1 skin cancer need ongoing follow-up care to watch for additional cancers. See the Follow-up Care section for more information. Inherited syndromes. Certain rare genetic conditions are associated with an increased risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. These conditions include nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, which is also called Gorlin syndrome, and the very rare Rombo, Bazex-Dupré-Christol, and epidermolysis bullosa simplex syndromes, among others. Rare syndromes associated with an increased risk of squamous cell carcinoma include xeroderma pigmentosum, albinism, epidermolysis bullosa simplex, dyskeratosis congenita, and multiple self-healing squamous epitheliomata. Medications. In addition to medications that suppress the immune system, certain steroids and medications that make the skin very sensitive to sunburns have all been shown to increase a person’s risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma. Examples include vandetanib (Caprelsa), vemurafenib (Zelboraf), and voriconazole (Vfend). Certain BRAF inhibitor targeted therapies, including dabrafenib (Tafinlar), encorafenib (Braftovi), and vemurafenib, have been shown to increase a person’s risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma by turning on a growth pathway in cells that tend to turn into this type of cancer (for example, cells with an HRAS mutation). Previous treatment with radiation therapy. When a person receives radiation therapy to treat cancer, they have a higher risk of developing basal cell carcinoma. This risk increases over time, especially after 10 to 20 years. As a result, children who receive radiation therapy have a 6 times higher risk for developing a basal cell carcinoma. Human papillomavirus (HPV). Research shows that the HPV virus is a risk factor for squamous cell carcinoma, particularly if the person’s immune system becomes suppressed. Sexual activity with someone who has HPV is the most common way someone gets HPV. There are different types of HPV, called strains. Research links some HPV strains more strongly with certain types of cancers. HPV vaccines can prevent people from developing certain cancers. Learn more about HPV and cancer. Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCV). Research indicates that there is a link between this virus and Merkel cell cancer. MCV is present in up to an estimated 80% of Merkel cell cancers. However, scientists believe MCV is common, while Merkel cell cancer is not. More research is needed to learn the role of MCV in this connection. Arsenic exposure. Exposure to the poison arsenic may increase the risk of Merkel cell cancer.

Are body lotions carcinogenic?

4. Formaldehyde – Formaldehyde and chemicals containing formaldehyde are common carcinogens in skincare products, hair straightening products, nail polishes, shampoos, lotions, and shower gels. If humans are exposed to high amounts of formaldehyde, it can put them at a higher risk for developing cancers.

Who should avoid shea butter?

Latex allergy – Natural latex is found in nearly 10% of all plants. This complex emulsion contains proteins, starches, sugars, oils, and other substances. Because the shea tree can contain natural latex, it may trigger a reaction in people with a, Anyone with an allergy to latex is at risk of having an allergic reaction when using shea butter.

Is butter A Carcinogen?

‘ Butter does not contain pollutants or carcinogenic toxic substances, but it is high in saturated fat and trans fat,’ she said.

Why you shouldn’t wear makeup everyday?

The Benefits of Not Wearing Makeup – Going without makeup can really have benefits to your skin, particularly if you were regularly wearing heavy, comedogenic makeup that was clogging your pores and causing acne—time away from that sort of regimen will be great for your skin.

Unlike many skincare product ingredients, which penetrate into your skin, makeup sits on top of your skin,” Dr.
Ing explains.
While super-heavy coverage foundation can look good, that level of coverage can also affect your skin’s sebum production as well as its natural hydration, because skin behaves differently depending on external factors, like humidity.

“Taking a break allows your skin to recalibrate. Often a barrier of makeup increases oil production, so not wearing makeup can decrease oiliness, clogged pores and pimples.” Another benefit can be on skin ailments makeup can exacerbate, like rosacea —You’ll definitely see an improvement if there were any ingredients in the makeup that were irritating the skin. Do Cosmetics Cause Cancer Pixi Glow Tonic $15.00 Shop A tip to have handy whether you’re cutting out makeup or not is the importance of developing a skincare routine featuring products that will keep skin clear so you feel confident. This includes a great toner like Pixi Glow Tonic, which features 5% Glycolic Acid, as well as nourishing ingredients like aloe vera, ginseng and botanical extracts to exfoliate and brighten skin. Do Cosmetics Cause Cancer GoodJanes H2OMYGOD $43.00 Shop Dr. King recommends the H2O My God Water Moisturizer from GoodJanes, which has dimethicone, squalane, safflower seed oil, argan kernel oil and glycerin to hydrate and moisturize, as well as Licorice, daisy and rose extracts to provide additional skin-soothing properties.

How long is it safe to use makeup?

Since it’s difficult to know just by looking at a product when it expires, here are some helpful guidelines to keep in mind: –

Mascara and liquid eyeliner typically are considered safe to use for three months. Liquid products used near the eye have an increased risk of spreading bacteria. Pencil-style eyeliners, gel eyeliners and lip pencils can be used for up to a year. Water-based foundation typically is good for a year, while oil-based foundation is good for about 18 months. Consider replacing cream-based foundation or blushes every six months to a year. Powder products, if stored properly and free from moisture, are good for up to two years. Lipstick is good for one to two years, and lip gloss can be used for six months to 1 year.

Minimizing the spread of bacteria in makeup starts with using clean applicator brushes. The brushes used to apply your makeup should be washed every seven to 10 days to avoid bacteria growth. Following guidelines for expiration of makeup products is the first step in protecting yourself against any potential health risk from your cosmetics.

Does skincare get into your bloodstream?

Can Products Actually Get Into Our Bloodstream? – The truth is yes and no. “Studies have shown that some of these tiny skincare chemical molecules, especially ones found in sunscreen, show up in some people’s bloodstreams,” explains Kitsos. But even so, this doesn’t justify the fear-mongering and misinformation that surrounds the dangers of daily skincare application.

What are the dangers of fake cosmetics?

Fake Cosmetics and their Health Risks Counterfeit cosmetics, such as make-up and hairstyling products, are being sold online and in pop-up shops throughout the United States. They are often disguised as designer name brands and fool thousands of shoppers each year who believe they are buying legitimate cosmetic products.

In addition to being counterfeit, they contain dangerous bacteria, lead, beryllium, and other harmful substances that pose health risks.
Counterfeit fragrances have been found to contain DEHP which the Environmental Protection Agency has classified as a probable human carcinogen.
Some have been found to possess levels of urine.

Other counterfeit products contain chemicals that have been known to cause cancer, acne, eczema and other health issues when absorbed by the skin. Signs of fake cosmetics:

Prices that are discounted by a third or more are highly suspicious. Counterfeit products are cheaper to make and can be sold at a low price while still making a profit. The price for a name brand product is very expensive even though it is made in China. Many of the more expensive name brand products are made in Europe or the United States. The product is sold at a flea market or other unauthorized seller. Genuine manufacturers tend to carefully control who can sell their products. The product smells different than it should or is packaged slightly different from the authentic brand. “Limited Edition” advertisements even though the manufacturer does not offer the product as a limited edition.

How to avoid fake cosmetics:

Research the online retailer or seller that you plan to purchase from. Look for blogs, forums, or reviews and see if there are any warnings from past customers. Buy products directly from name brand stores. If you are unsure if a product is authentic, don’t buy it. Ask sellers directly if they are selling genuine products and if they can provide proof.

If you suspect someone is selling fake cosmetics, please submit a tip to the National Intellectual Property Rights Center at, : Fake Cosmetics and their Health Risks

Are parabens actually bad?

Are parabens safe as they’re used in cosmetics? Are they linked to breast cancer or other health problems? FDA scientists continue to review published studies on the safety of parabens. At this time, we do not have information showing that parabens as they are used in cosmetics have an effect on human health.