The Product
For this eye opener, I decided to do chapstick because this is a product I use everyday! I don't think I could survive if I didn't have chapstick with me at all times, especially during the winters in Duluth. After finding the type of chapstick I use, the results weren't what I expected.
Results
-The chapstick I use scored a 5 out of 10 on the hazardous scale.
-The UVA was an 8 out of 10 on the exposure score, which is really bad!
-The ingredients in this chapstick are linked to: Cancer, Developmental and Reproductive Toxicity, Violations, Restrictions and Warnings, Allergies, Immunotoxicity, and other minor concerns.
-The active ingredient, Oxybenzone, scored an 8 out of 10 on the hazardous scale.
What I Learned
It's really scary to think that the everyday products we use can and may potentially harm us. Even "organic" or "natural" products may contain ingredients that are linked to certain diseases and illness. Luckily, the harmful ingredients in chapstick are only effective in high doses. Since I don't lick my lips excessively or literally eat sticks of chapstick, I think i'll be okay. However, I did find it a little disturbing that some of the ingredients were linked to such diseases. This activity was not only interesting, but very helpful because the information we learn is directly related to our lives. I will consider looking into different brands of chapstick, but I have become attached to the brand I use now...although I hear "Blistex" is a great brand =D
Posts
Ben-
ReplyDeleteI don't think I could survive without chapstick either. I was surprised to find that "natural" chapstick still had its disadvantages. So sad.. but there is no way I will ever give up my chapstick!
Ben- Oh my gosh. I have officially been frightened. Seriously, I have a confession...I literally used to eat chapstick as a child. : /
ReplyDeleteHaha, I know thats horrible, but what if I experience some health related problems because of it!!!???
Do me a favor, let me know if you do follow up on this and look into other brands. Tell me if you find any info on "excessive use". Haha, how embarassing. --S
Bahaha, Sara J's comment was soo funny. lol
ReplyDeleteAnyway, I use that same chapstick. I didn't test it yet but I wonder if my organic lip gloss would be better...if so I'll let you use it! JK ;)
Great Post Ben Lee, see you in the morning!
Ben-It is really crazy how bad one little tube of chap stick is...wow I am glad I use Burt bees!! Great Post keep it up!!
ReplyDeleteI definately cant survive without chapstick! Maybe my Burts Bees isnt so bad? I think Ill stick with it until I can find one thats more eco- friendly. Thanks for the info!
ReplyDeleteBen- that's crazy I cannot believe that all of these products that we use so often and love so much are not good for us... its hard to admit that we might have to give up? Next, I need to make a comment on Sara J's comment up above ...yikes girl you better watch it haha eating chapstick... and Ben I liked the point that you brought up about products labeled organic/natural!
ReplyDelete