Is your family shampoo potentially harmful? Let’s begin by considering the three compounds mentioned previously. These were methylisothiazoline, dimethicone, and the grouping generally described as parabens.

Methylisothiazoline is sometimes included in shampoo and personal hygiene products to limit the potential for microbial contamination in water based solutions. Like many artificial preservatives, methylisothiazoline appears to disrupt the biological integrity of experimental animal subjects. The most alarming of these was the finding that prenatal exposure in laboratory rats resulted in disorientation and destruction of immature nerve cells. This research raised the possibility that the neural development of unborn human babies might also be disrupted (Du, et al; In Vitro Neurotoxicity of Methylisothiazolinone, a Commonly Used Industrial and Household Biocide, Proceeds via a Zinc and Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase-Dependent Pathway, Journal of Neuroscience 22:7408-7416; 2002).

Dimethicone has been included in some shampoo and hygiene products as an emulsifier, enabling the combination of water and oil based compounds. It is a silicon based compound which not only coats the surface of hair, but also the skin, restricting normal respiration.

Parabens are another class of preservative compounds which protect against microbial contamination. They are now associated with a body of evidence indicating their potential to disrupt estrogen reception. A recent study detected traces of parabens in the tissue samples removed from a group of breast cancer patients (Darbre, et al; Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumors, Journal of Applied Toxicology 24: 5-13, 2004). While there is insufficient evidence at present to conclude any causal links between paraben exposure and breast cancer, several health agencies have revised their guidelines for safe exposure.

When considering the rationale of manufacturers who use potentially harmful ingredients, it’s important to appreciate the range of alternative options which currently exist. Despite the additional expense and technical difficulties, it remains feasible to produce high quality shampoos and other hygiene products using only natural and organically certified ingredients. From an ethical and consumer focused perspective, these minor barriers must be offset against the long-term benefits.

You may have noticed earlier comments surrounding the health risks associated with conventional cosmetic and personal hygiene products. These include a number of leading brand shampoos and hair treatments which continue to include clearly suspect ingredients like methylisothiazoline, dimethicone, and parabens. In addition to the quantities which can be absorbed through the skin during application, some of the residual traces left after rinsing will attach themselves to the drying hair follicle. Once again these may be absorbed into the system, particularly during exercise and physical activities when the body temperature rises and pores become increasingly active.

A significant number of medical health professionals will readily concede the value of removing toxins from our environment, food, and bodies where possible. They recommend elimination diets developed to cleanse the liver and reawaken the immune function required to prevent illness and degenerative disease conditions. The leading health resorts and rejuvenation clinics tend to implement a whole body approach which encompasses psychological wellbeing in addition to detailed care for previously neglected components including the eyes, teeth, nails, and hair.

This organic hair tonic is based on a traditional Swiss formulation. It contains safe and natural ingredients which rejuvenate the scalp and help to eliminate traces of residual chemical and environmental pollution from the hair follicles. Like most natural formulations, it should be freshly prepared and applied as soon as possible. It’s okay to store small quantities in the refrigerator for a day or two.

• 50 ml of organically certified cider vinegar
• 50 ml of strained nettle and rosemary extract (made by steeping approximately 100 grams of fresh organically grown herb in boiling water then allowing to sit for approximately 24 hours)
• Two drops of organic lemon or citrus oil
• Two drops of organic clove oil

Combine the basic ingredients and stir gently before massaging through the scalp and hair. Try to wait at least ten minutes before rinsing with warm water then finishing with cold. Your hair will be left feeling clean and rejuvenated.

The chemical compound Diethanolamine (DEA) is used as a wetting agent in some of the most popular shampoo brands which are currently stocked in supermarkets and hair salons. While unlikely to be carcinogenic in its pure form, DEA is inclined to react with other shampoo ingredients to form carcinogens like nitrosodiethanolamine (NDEA). Once transformed in such manner, the harmful recombinant can be readily absorbed through skin.

The potential for interactive effects is of considerable concern to health advocacy and consumer groups. There are approximately 10,000 chemical ingredients manufactured for use in cosmetic and personal care products. Given that some individuals use a range of products, several each day perhaps, the potential for interaction between chemical compounds is extremely significant. There is only limited data upon the consequences of repeated exposure to the so-called “harmless compounds” over extended periods of time. They remain harmless until the immune system fails to cope and there is progressive contribution toward skin allergy, nausea, and other manifestations of chemical sensitivity.

Pregnant women are advised to exercise caution in their choice of shampoo, conditioners, and other personal care products. Exposure to moderate levels of DEA can block the body’s capacity to absorb essential nutrients like choline. A clinical deficiency of choline may increase the risk of abnormal brain development or spontaneous miscarriage of the foetus.

There are several options for individuals determined to avoid the risks associated with DEA exposure. The best starting point is to choose a shampoo with natural ingredients. Unfortunately, the labeling of “organic” in relation to hair and beauty products is poorly regulated. There are some extremely worthwhile organic products and many others which contain mixtures of chemicals which are no less harmful than those found in conventional products. One of the best ways to separate the quality brands from the remainder is to focus on those which use organically certified and food grade ingredients in their formulations. This appears to be the newest standard and one which is sure to become very popular with consumers. We know the skin will absorb many of the compounds contained in a shampoo or cosmetic. It’s no longer acceptable that levels of safety should be significantly lower than those required for edible goods.

In situations where conventional products are used, the risks of DEA exposure can be minimised by rinsing thoroughly to remove as much residue from the hair and skin as possible. Avoiding warm and hot water is another useful practice. While coldwater rinses can be something of a challenge in the winter months, they do limit the amounts of DEA and NDEA absorbed directly through the skin’s pores.

If you are unable to avoid products containing these ingredients, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself from cancer risks.

• Be sure to rinse off the product thoroughly after use.
• Use cold water when shampooing so that you reduce the amount of NDEA that is absorbed through your skin.