After being approached recently about offering natural products to cancer patients, I felt compelled to delve deeper into understanding the effects of chemotherapy and other cancer treatments on skin and hair. I realized that cancer treatments can significantly impact a person's skin and hair, emphasizing the importance of turning to natural and gentle care products for relief. In this heartfelt blog post, we will discuss the benefits of using natural body and hair care products for cancer patients, the risks associated with conventional products, and the dangers of chemical hair straighteners, particularly for black women.
The Effects of Cancer Treatments on Skin and Hair:
Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and other cancer treatments can cause a range of side effects, including dryness, sensitivity, and irritation in the skin. Additionally, these treatments can lead to rashes, acne, and hyperpigmentation. Hair loss is another common side effect, and regrowth might differ from the person's original hair type, sometimes becoming more fragile or changing in texture. Furthermore, cancer treatments can make nails brittle, discolored, and prone to breakage.
Natural Hair and Body Products for Cancer Patients:
During and after cancer treatments, it is vital to use natural, gentle products that don't exacerbate the side effects. Natural products are free from harsh chemicals and toxins, offering a safer and more soothing experience for the skin and hair. They contain organic ingredients, essential oils, and botanicals that help maintain the skin's health without causing irritation.
Conventional bath and body products often contain toxic chemicals that can be harmful to cancer patients, whose skin is already more sensitive and prone to irritation.
It's crucial to be aware of the potentially harmful chemicals found in conventional body products, as some have been studied to show a cancer risk. A few of these chemicals include parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, sodium benzoate, petroleum-derived mineral oils, phenoxyethanol, and petrolatum.
Parabens, often used as preservatives in cosmetics, have been linked to hormonal disruptions, while phthalates, commonly found in synthetic fragrances, have been associated with endocrine system issues.
Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, used to prolong the shelf life of products, can release small amounts of formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, over time.
Sodium benzoate, another commonly used preservative, may also have negative health effects when combined with certain other ingredients.
Phenoxyethanol, a frequently used alternative to parabens, has been linked to skin and eye irritation in some people.
Petrolatum, another ingredient often found in conventional cosmetics and personal care products, can pose potential risks if it is not fully refined. According to safecosmetics.org, petrolatum that is not fully refined may be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are classified as probable human carcinogens. The refining process should remove these impurities; however, in the United States, there is no assurance that petrolatum used in personal care products is properly refined.
A Word of Caution on Chemical Hair Straighteners and Their Impact on Black Women. Chemical hair straighteners from different brands have recently been put into the public spotlight after findings showed that recent use could cause uterine cancer and other issues. Many women use it without knowing the risks and how toxic they can be, and a study finds black women may be more affected due to higher use. For more information, please visit: https://www.drugwatch.com/legal/hair-straightener-lawsuits/
Natural skin care and hair care products can offer the desired results without the harmful side effects of chemical straighteners, helping maintain the health and integrity of the hair and scalp. Cancer patients, survivors, and individuals seeking to reduce their exposure to harmful chemicals should prioritize using natural hair and body care products. These gentle, organic products cater to the unique needs of those affected by cancer treatments and provide a safer alternative to conventional products and chemical hair straighteners.
By choosing natural products, you are not only protecting your skin and hair but also taking a step towards a healthier and more holistic lifestyle. We care about your well-being and encourage you to make choices that nurture your body.