Daily Dose

In today's world, where the quest for effective yet safe skincare and cosmetic products is ever-present, it's crucial to take a closer look at the ingredients that go into these items. One such ingredient that has been raising concerns is phenoxyethanol. Despite its widespread use in personal care products and its branding as a safe and natural preservative, there is increasing evidence suggesting that it may not be as harmless as it seems. Let's delve into what phenoxyethanol is, how it's made, its health effects, and why it's drawing attention for all the wrong reasons. Table of Contents What is Phenoxyethanol and How is it Used? Is Phenoxyethanol Made From Carcinogenic ingredients? The Truth About It's Effect on health Carcinogenic Origins Endocrine Disruptor and Its Effect on Testosterone Shrunken Testicles: Do we have your full attention now? Petrochemical What is Phenoxyethanol and How is it Used? Phenoxyethanol can be found naturally in green tea. However, the commercial use of phenoxyethanol is a synthetic preservative made in a lab and is commonly found in cosmetics and skincare products. Its primary function is to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and mold, extending the shelf life of various personal care items. You will often spot it listed among the ingredients of naturally branded products such as: Shampoos Body Washes Deodorants Conditioners Creams Lotions and moisturizers  Hand sanitizers If you are looking for phenoxyethanol in your products. It can be listed on ingredient labels under various names, such as: Phenoxyethanol 2-Phenoxyethanol Ethylene Glycol Mono-phenyl Ether  PhE Euxyl K 400 Is Phenoxyethanol Made From Carcinogenic Ingredients? To understand the origins of phenoxyethanol, we need to look at its components. It's created through a chemical reaction known as ethoxylation. In simple terms, it involves treating phenol, a compound derived from petroleum, with ethylene oxide, a flammable gas (ethylene oxide is classified as a known human carcinogen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency or EPA). This process yields phenoxyethanol but can also unintentionally lead to the formation of 1,4-dioxane, a concerning byproduct. 1,4-dioxane is classified as a likely human carcinogen by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Toxicology Program considers it a known animal carcinogen. It's a contaminant that can be present in products containing phenoxyethanol due to the ethoxylation process. Exposure to 1,4-dioxane has been linked to adverse health effects, including cancer and organ toxicity. Thus, the presence of this compound raises serious concerns about the safety of products containing phenoxyethanol. Because of the use of the ingredient phenol, which is derived from petroleum, it makes phenoxyethanol a petrochemical. This is very concerning because soap products are intended for prolonged contact with the skin. Research indicates that prolonged exposure to petrochemicals in personal care products, including soap, can disrupt the skin's natural barrier function and contribute to skin sensitization. Studies conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that petrochemicals have the potential to penetrate the skin and accumulate in the body over time. The Truth About Its Effect on Health Now, let's address the elephant in the room: why is phenoxyethanol considered bad? Several factors contribute to its questionable reputation. Carcinogenic Origins One of the scariest parts of phenoxyethanol is its carcinogenic origins. It is created using a known ingredient that is proven to cause cancer in humans called ethylene oxide. Furthermore, the presence of 1,4-dioxane adds another layer of concern because this compound is a likely human carcinogen, posing serious health risks to consumers. In a new, computerized assessment of ingredients in 15,000 cosmetics and other personal care products, Environmental Working Group (EWG) researchers found that 22 percent of all products may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane. Endocrine Disruptor and Its Effect on Testosterone A very alarming aspect of phenoxyethanol, especially for men, is its potential to disrupt the endocrine system. This vital regulatory system governs hormone production and balance within the body. Research suggests that phenoxyethanol may interfere with hormonal function, potentially leading to adverse health effects. Evidence from scientific research, including studies referenced by the European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), indicates a link between phenoxyethanol exposure and endocrine disruption and has highlighted its ability to mimic estrogen, the primary female sex hormone, disrupting the delicate hormonal equilibrium in both men and women. This disruption can cause a decrease in testosterone levels and can lead to a range of health issues, including reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and decreased muscle mass and strength. Studies also suggest that repeated exposure causes developmental toxicity and has adverse effects on the blood, the liver, and fertility. Shrunken Testicles: Do we have your full attention now? Phenoxyethanol is also part of the glycol ether family; they are common solvents in paint, brake fluid, and cosmetics. When rats were exposed to different glycol ethers, they found a possible side effect was that the rats' testicles shrunk. Worried? The European Union also states that some of these chemicals “may damage fertility or the unborn child.” Petrochemical As mentioned, petrochemicals in soap, such as phenoxyethanol, can penetrate the skin and accumulate in the body over time. When petrochemicals are in the body, they can disrupt the endocrine system, leading to hormonal imbalances and reproductive issues, which is why phenoxyethanol is an endocrine disruptor. They may also contribute to the development of allergies, respiratory problems, and skin disorders. One of the most alarming aspects of petrochemicals is that they have also been linked to more serious health conditions, including cancer and neurological disorders. In conclusion, while phenoxyethanol may seem like and be branded as a harmless ingredient in skincare and cosmetic products, a closer examination reveals many potential risks associated with its use. From its role as an endocrine disruptor to the use and formation of carcinogenic ingredients, there are valid reasons to reconsider its inclusion in personal care formulations. This is why we go to extreme lengths to find only the highest-quality ingredients for our customers and ourselves, meaning you will never find phenoxyethanol in any Happy Lad product. Remember, your skin is your body's largest organ and deserves the best, so choose wisely and stay feeling young lads.     Sources Environmental Protection Agency. n.d. https://www.epa.gov/. Environmental Working Group. n.d. https://www.ewg.org/. Environmental Working Group. "EWG Research Shows 22 Percent of All Cosmetics May Be Contaminated with Cancer-Causing Impurity." n.d. https://www.ewg.org/news-insights/news-release/ewg-research-shows-22-percent-all-cosmetics-may-be-contaminated-cancer. European Commission Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety. "Opinion on Phenoxyethanol." n.d. https://ec.europa.eu/health/scientific_committees/consumer_safety/docs/sccs_o_195.pdf. Minnesota Department of Health. "Guidance for Drinking Water Quality Management: 1,4-Dioxane." n.d. https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/environment/risk/docs/guidance/dwec/dioxaneinfo.pdf. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. n.d. https://www.niehs.nih.gov/.

In a world where the labels on products seem to contain an alphabet soup of unpronounceable chemicals that do more harm than good, it's essential to take charge of what you expose yourself to. From what you wash yourself with to what you drink or even what you wear, many everyday items contain toxic ingredients linked to a range of health issues, including endocrine disruption, reproductive problems, and even cancer. However, there are ways around these harmful ingredients. Here is a beginner-friendly roadmap to help you steer clear of these toxic substances: Step 1: Educate Yourself Knowledge is power; you can not avoid the ingredients if you do not know about them. Arm yourself with information about common toxic ingredients. Look out for chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and petrochemicals like phenoxyethanol and formaldehyde, often found in personal care products, cleaning supplies, and plastics. Familiarize yourself with their aliases, as they can hide under various names on ingredient lists. If you need a place to start, check out Happy Lad's Never List. This list consists of toxic chemicals that you will never find in any Happy Lad product. Step 2: Read Labels Diligently and Use Apps Become a label detective. When shopping for products, scan the ingredient lists like a pro. Opt for items with shorter, simpler ingredient lists, and prioritize those with organic or natural ingredients. If you encounter an ingredient you're unsure about, don't hesitate to research it on trusted sources or apps that decipher chemicals for you. Using a free app like Yuka or many others will rate the safety of the product in question, whether food or personal care products. Step 3: Embrace Natural Soap Alternatives Mother Nature provides all the safe alternatives to toxic lab-made ingredients you need. Explore natural skincare brands that use plant-based ingredients and essential oils instead of synthetic fragrances and harsh chemicals. Although the price tag may be higher on these items, the extra cost comes with more expensive natural ingredients that have the benefits of making your skin and hair healthier without compromising your overall health.  Remember, your skin is your body's largest organ and acts as a sponge sucking in ingredients, meaning you need to be conscious of what you are putting on it. Natural soaps are a large step in the right direction for a healthy, toxin-free you. Step 4: Choose Trusted Brands, Not Only Big Companies While big corporations dominate supermarket shelves, their primary focus often lies in maximizing profits rather than safeguarding consumer health. The brands you want will prioritize quality ingredients sourced responsibly. They invest in research and development to ensure their products are safe and effective, even if it cuts into their profit margins. Small and ethical brands are transparent about their ingredients and manufacturing processes. They readily disclose information to empower consumers to make informed choices. Conversely, big corporations often hide behind vague labels and proprietary blends, making it challenging for consumers to know what they're putting on their bodies or using in their homes. Step 5: Practice, Patience and Persistence Transitioning to a toxin-free lifestyle is a journey, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself as you navigate this process. There may be times when you don't want to spend more money or don't want to look into an ingredient. It's okay to make mistakes along the way. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small, and keep pushing forward. With time and commitment, you'll gradually build habits that prioritize your health and well-being. Step 6: Put the Tactics Into Motion For Change As a consumer, you have a lot of power to control the types of products that are put on the shelves and sold online. If customers don't want cheap products that cause adverse effects like cancer, don't buy them and instead opt for natural products that benefit them. Then, companies have no choice but to offer what the customers want. At the least, putting these tactics in motion will have you on a path that gives you products that avoid the use of harmful chemicals. Step 7: Share Your Knowledge Empower others to join you on the path to toxin-free living. Share your newfound knowledge and experiences with friends, family, and online communities. Start conversations about the importance of ingredient awareness and the impact of consumer choices on personal and planetary health. Together, we can create a ripple effect of positive change.