AmericaNowNews.comRid your bathroom of toxic hazards

Rid your bathroom of toxic hazards

You already know not to dry your hair in the bathtub, but did you know there are other dangers lurking behind that bathroom door?

Wellness expert Peggy Hall explains what to look out for and why...and what to use instead!

"When it comes to shampoo, use those that are free of sulfates and parabens," Hall says. Sulfates are use as foaming agents, but they commonly cause skin rashes, allergies, irritation, lung and kidney damage.

Parabens are used as preservatives, but parabens also interfere with the body's hormones and have been implicated in certain forms of breast cancer. Less deadly but often bothersome side effects of parabens include diminished muscle mass, extra fat storage and male gynecomastia (breast growth).

Danger #1: Shampoo "What you put on your hair and scalp is absorbed by your skin and makes its way into your body's tissues, cells, organs -- even the brain," explains Peggy. "That's why it's so important to choose shampoos that are sulfate-free and paraben-free."  The good news is these shampoos don't need to cost more money, because natural forumlations are becoming more popular. Check the big-box retailers or the dollar store.

Danger #2: Bubble Bath Bubble baths often contain harsh chemicals and synthetic fragrances and colors. "Remember -- these are being absorbed right into your skin!" Peggy warns. Instead, make this all-natural bubble bath instead:

    Peggy's Natural Bath Soak
    1/2 cup baking soda
    1/2 cup dry milk

Pour into warm bath as the water is running. Swirl it around to make more bubbles. Soak for 20 minutes and enjoy~

"Baking soda is a natural deodorizer and milk gently cleanse and exfoliates the skin. It also leaves the skin naturally moisturized," Peggy says.

Danger #3: "Loofa" sponge The tiny holes in the sponge are hard to dry thoroughly; breed bacteria -- can cause skin rash, bumps (folliculitis) and spread of bacteria. Instead: Use a wash cloth or a synthetic scrubber, which can easily be tossed into the dishwasher for easy cleaning!

Danger #4: Bath towel Like the loofa, damp towel breeds bacteria! Hang the towel to dry outside if possible in the sunlight (which is a natural disinfectant) and change daily if possible.

Copyright 2011 America Now.  All rights reserved.

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