This week I’ve explained a lot about the mysterious ingredient “fragrance” that is on the labels of a multitude of products. I shared how it’s in so many products – and I explained how chemicals that are used to create fragrances can affect allergies and hormones.
Are you ready to find out what can consumers do? This week’s Reduce, Reuse and Recycle Challenge, if you choose to accept it, is to address fragrances in your own home.
Image courtesy of koratmember/FreeDigitalPhotos.net
First, look at the ingredient labels on your products – it might take you a week to investigate your cosmetics, personal care products, and cleaning products. Find every one that contains “fragrance.” (Chances are, you’ll find a lot.)
Your next step depends on how concerned you are.
If you’re mildly interested in making healthy changes, check out how your cosmetics and personal care products rate on the Environmental Working Group’s Cosmetics Database. If the products are fairly safe, finish using them and buy products without fragrance in your future shopping trips.
If you’re very concerned and notice signs of allergic reactions – either with you or your family members – you may be interested in throwing away products with fragrance. If you absolutely love one scented product, consider keeping that and phasing out your other scented products.
After you’ve investigated your own products, begin to purchase products that do not include added fragrances.
Finally, if you’re really fired up about the entire fragrance issue – does anyone really want toxic chemicals included in their everyday products?? – call or e-mail companies that produce your favorite products. Briefly share your concerns. (For a report about fragrance facts, check out the Safe Cosmetics’ Guide Not So Sexy.)
Talk back
If you follow through on this challenge, I am so curious to know a couple things. Were you surprised by how many products contain fragrance? What did you decide to do? Please share in a comment below, or share your experience on Facebook.
Planning to shop on Amazon.com
Today, I’m linking up with Time Warp Wife, The Better Mom and Women Living Well.
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