There are many harmful ingredients in cosmetic products that people should be aware of. Heavy metals like lead, arsenic, mercury, aluminum, zinc, chromium, and iron are found in a wide variety of personal care products, including lipstick, whitening toothpaste, eyeliner, and nail color. Polyethylene glycols have a variety of uses in cosmetic care preparations but have been linked to various types of cancer. In addition to the risks posed by intentionally added ingredients, cosmetics can be contaminated with heavy metals, including arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury, and nickel. Some chemicals used in personal care products pose risks at very low doses and can interfere with the hormone system. Sulfates are also harmful ingredients that can be found in cosmetics. They can irritate your eyes and skin.
There are several harmful ingredients that are commonly found in dietary supplements. For instance, sodium ascorbate, which is usually made from GMO corn that is heavily exposed to harmful pesticides, should be avoided. Ascorbyl palmitate, another common ingredient that is likely to come from GMO corn, should also be avoided. Cornstarch, yet another GMO ingredient, should be avoided as well.
Titanium dioxide is another harmful ingredient that is commonly used in supplements as a colorant. It has several health implications and should be avoided.
Additionally, some multivitamins may contain high levels of selenium, which has been linked to several health problems, including diabetes, elevated cholesterol, prostate cancer, cardiovascular disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), impaired immune function, and impaired thyroid function. Paradoxically, too little selenium can also be harmful.
It is important to be aware of the ingredients in supplements and to avoid those that may be harmful. Consumers are advised to read the labels carefully and do their research before taking any dietary supplement.