US Bans 11 Ingredients from Cosmetic Products, Europe Bans 1,328

The new docuseries, "Not So Pretty" has everyone buzzing around the fact that the US is far behind on using clean, safe ingredients in their products. Unfortunately, within the US there are only 11 ingredients banned in cosmetic products, while in Europe thy currently ban 1,328.

There are currently no legal requirements for cosmetic manufacturers to test their products before selling them to consumers. If consumers are harmed, there’s little the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the regulatory body supposedly protecting consumers, can do; the enfeebled agency can merely request a company issue a voluntary recall.

So what should you be looking out for?

Here is a list to get started - some even carcinogenic. Keep in mind, 60% of what you put on your skin actually penetrates beyond the skin surface.

• Parabens - linked to breast cancer, reproductive issues

• Petrochemicals - there are 5 main types that are linked to cancer, developmental harm in fetuses & can cause birth defects

• Sulfates - overly drying, irritating & damaging hair & skin

• DEA/MEA - foam booster… absorbed through the skin & scalp, linked to liver tumors

• Phthalates - can damage the liver, kidneys, lungs, & reproductive system

• Harsh salt systems & Sodium Chloride - It strips out the natural oils & moisture in your hair making your hair dry out. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, salt can even cause dryness & itchiness to your scalp in addition to hair loss

• PEG - another chemical used to improve the texture of the shampoo (makes it creamy). This synthetic ingredient can be very harsh on the scalp & hair, leading to dryness

• Phenoxyethanol - used as a preservative & as a fragrance, but it has a high risk of skin irritation, as well as eye & lung irritation. Since scalp irritation is one of the driving factors in hair loss other than genetics

• Ethanol - strip & oxidize hair color. The most common side effect is brittleness

• Harmful colors - strip away hair’s natural protective lipid layer, leaving it exposed to future damage & feeling rougher

• Formaldehyde resin, dibutyl phthalate, and toluene can also cause allergic contact dermatitis

Go & check your bottles!

Now, where to start when you're considering switching over to clean products? Monat is my haircare, skincare, & body care line that I trust for my whole family. Totally vegan, non-toxic, and passing EU standards. Combining safe ingredients with science so you get the results you're looking for. Their products are so highly concentrated, they last 4-6 months! So you aren't breaking your bank.

By taking my hair quiz below, you will be sent personalized recommendations based on your hair or skin type. Happy (safe!) washing!

Beauty Quiz