Non-Toxic Dad News: June 20, 2024

Welcome to this week's edition of Non-Toxic Dad's Weekly Newsletter! Today, we're tackling a topic that affects many of us daily but often goes unnoticed: the hidden dangers lurking in your makeup bag.

You can look good and be non-toxic - but your choice of makeup could be getting in the way! Many adult makeup products contain toxic ingredients linked to severe health problems such as cancer, weight gain, nerve damage, infertility, hormonal disruption, and more. These harmful chemicals are often hidden behind the alluring promise of beauty, but their impacts can be anything but pretty.

Despite recent efforts to regulate these toxic terrors, the recent overhaul of the Cosmetics Regulation Act fell short. Although this legislation, untouched for nearly a century, was updated, it disappointingly left all the dangerous chemicals untouched. In contrast, the European Union has taken a much stricter stance, regulating over 2,400 toxic chemicals in cosmetics compared to a meager 11 in the United States. Perhaps our policymakers should look across the pond for some much-needed inspiration.

So, what are these harmful substances you need to watch out for? Talc, lead, triclosan, mercury, phthalates, parabens, formaldehyde, toluene, artificial fragrances, and PFAS (the notorious ‘forever chemicals’) are just a few of the toxins that could be lurking in your makeup products. These can be found to varying degrees in waterproof mascaras, concealers, lipsticks, and foundations—all of which can be absorbed by your skin, potentially causing serious health issues.

The Non-Toxic Dad solution?

There are safer alternatives. Look for ways to adopt a more natural and organic approach to your makeup routine. Choose products with ingredients that benefit your skin and body rather than harm them. I always tell people not to put anything on their skin that they wouldn't put in their mouth, and makeup is no exception. You have the power to make healthier choices for yourself.

Stay tuned as we explore how to protect yourself and your loved ones from these hidden hazards while still looking your best. Remember, a healthier you starts with the choices you make today. Let's embark on this journey to a toxin-free lifestyle together!

But first….check out my recent podcasts:

In an era where self-care and beauty routines are celebrated, it’s shocking to discover that many products we use daily contain potentially harmful chemicals. Makeup, a staple in many people’s daily lives, is no exception. Despite the rise of awareness about clean beauty, the industry remains largely unregulated, with many products still harboring ingredients linked to serious health issues, including cancer, reproductive harm, and neurological damage.

Sugar is often referred to as “sweet poison,” and for good reason. Its impact on the human body extends far beyond simple weight gain. From the brain to the gut, sugar wreaks havoc on various organs and systems, leading to a multitude of health issues. In this blog, we will delve into Sugar’s Dark Side, exploring how it affects different parts of the body, understanding the mechanisms behind these effects, and highlighting the importance of reducing sugar intake for overall health.

Farming practices and pesticide regulations vary significantly globally, with notable differences between American and UK farms. These differences have profound implications for consumers’ health, particularly concerning pesticide residues on commonly consumed fruits like apples and grapes. This blog explores how American farms use significantly more pesticides than their UK counterparts, the implications for pesticide residues, and the specific toxins commonly found on apples and grapes in the United States.

Homemade Summer Glow Bronzer

Achieve a beautiful, sun-kissed glow with this easy-to-make, all-natural bronzer. This DIY bronzer is free from toxic chemicals and made with safe and nourishing ingredients for your skin.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons arrowroot powder (acts as the base and helps blend the other ingredients)

• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder (provides a rich, natural color)

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder (adds warmth and a slight shimmer)

• 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg powder (gives a subtle bronze tint)

• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon mica powder (for extra shimmer)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the arrowroot powder, cocoa powder, cinnamon powder, and nutmeg powder. If you prefer a bronzer with shimmer, add the mica powder.

2. Adjust Color: Test the color on the inside of your wrist. Adjust the ingredients to get your desired shade. For a darker bronzer, add more cocoa powder. For a warmer tone, increase the cinnamon powder. For a lighter shade, add more arrowroot powder.

3. Blend Thoroughly: Ensure all the powders are well combined to create a smooth, even color.

4. Store: Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container.

To Use:

• Application: Use a makeup brush to apply the bronzer to areas where the sun naturally hits your face, such as your forehead, cheekbones, nose, and chin. Blend well for a natural, radiant glow.

• Buildable Coverage: Apply in layers to build the intensity of the color to your preference.

Thank you for joining us in this edition of Non-Toxic Dad's Weekly Newsletter! I hope you found the tips on creating a healthier makeup routine and the homemade summer glow bronzer recipe helpful and inspiring!