Body wash and soap products can contain a variety of ingredients, some of which may be harmful to human health or the environment. Here are some details on the positive and negative aspects of body wash and soap products, as well as some common ingredients to look out for:
Positive aspects:
- Body wash and soap products can help to cleanse the skin and remove dirt and oil.
- Some products may contain natural or organic ingredients that are less harmful to human health and the environment.
Negative aspects:
- Some body wash and soap products may contain harmful chemicals or contaminants that can be absorbed through the skin or washed down the drain and harm aquatic life.
- Some ingredients may cause skin irritation or other health problems.
Common ingredients to look out for:
- Sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate: These foaming ingredients have been found to cause contact irritation in users and are also harmful to aquatic life.
- Triclosan: This is an antibacterial agent and preservative that is an irritant and has been linked to antibiotic resistance.
- Synthetic fragrance: Unless the label specifies that it’s scented with essential oils, bar soap probably contains synthetic fragrance, which means it contains phthalates.
- Parabens: These are preservatives that have been linked to hormone disruption and other health problems.
When shopping for body wash and soap products, its important to read labels carefully and look for products that are free from harmful ingredients. Some safer alternatives may include products that are certified by organizations like MADE SAFE or that contain natural or organic ingredients.
