So, what is it about shampoo that makes it toxic?
Raviesha Pradeep
10/03/22
Most dog owners are probably unaware that they should check their dog's shampoo bottles before bathing their dogs, particularly the pH of the shampoo. The reason for this is that dogs need a shampoo with a pH of 7.0 or higher. Dogs have alkaline skin, whereas humans have acidic skin that needs a pH of less than 7. Human shampoos with a pH of 6.5 or below, as well as numerous dog shampoos that do not indicate pH on the label.
Using a product with a pH lower than 7.0 on a regular basis could create dull, brittle, or dry fur. A dog's skin must also be resistant to water and the weather, and using the improper shampoo on a frequent basis can injure skin cells, leading them to lose their water-tight barrier. This may also contribute to discoloured, unhealthy skin. We can aid you in picking a high-quality dog shampoo.
The following is a list of dangerous substances found in personal and canine grooming products.
1. Synthetic Colors: Many herbal dog shampoos have a wonderful green hue to them . Artificial colours have been connected to a range of malignancies, hence avoiding them should be at the top of your must-do list.
2. Cocomide DEA or MEA: This foam-producing chemical has the famous "Coco" prefix, causing consumers to assume it is derived from coconut. The assumption is valid. What the same individual would not identify is that this substance has been chemically modified to the point where it is a moderate cancer-causing component, hormone and thyroid disruptor, and organ toxin.
- Cocamidopropyl Betaine: It is a toxin found in the environment that has an influence on the immune system. Although it is generated from coconut oil, the end outcome is far from it.
- Fragrances: If a shampoo's fragrance does not stem from essential oils or plants, the aroma is a result of an unwanted element. We must pay special attention to scent while picking a dog shampoo as our canine friend's sense of smell is 50 times more sensitive than ours. The phrase "fragrance" may be used to mask things that corporations do not want you to be aware of. Artificial scents may impair immune function, trigger allergic reactions, and cause neurotoxicity.
- Parabens: Parabens are frequently placed near the finish of an ingredient list. Don't be tricked. A little quantity goes a long way. Parabens are both utilised as preservatives. Companies do not notify you that they are identified endocrine disruptors.
- Mineral Oil: Because it is a byproduct of distilled gasoline generated from crude oil, mineral oil should be designated "oil of crude." Its major objective is to cover everything it comes into touch with, preventing the skin from releasing natural oils or eliminating impurities.
- Phthalates: The scent of many shampoos is important. Phthalates help in the scenting of many soaps by attaching the scent to the soap base. They, like their paraben buddies, are acknowledged male and female hormone disruptors.
- Polysorbates: Most people are familiar with Polysorbates because of the number that follows. Polysorbate-20 and Polysorbate-80 These emulsifiers help in the binding of oil with water and the dissolving of fragrances into a solution. Polysorbate 20 is a simple sugar alcohol that deteriorates when coupled with the chemical ethylene oxide, which may contaminate it with the cancer-causing 1,4-dioxane. Polysorbates also modify the pH of the skin, hair, and fur. Polysorbates are employed by enterprises because they are affordable emulsifiers.
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, and Ammonium Laureth Sulfate: These substances attract oil and dirt and allow it to be washed out of the hair shaft. Isn't it fantastic? No, it does not. Sulfates also decrease the hair's natural oils and could cause skin irritation. Because of their hairy form, these irritations in dogs are not often detected until they grow infected. To make things worse, sulphates are typically exposed to a softening process that results in the above-mentioned harmful by-product, 1,4-dioxane, which the FDA does not need to be reported on the label. Both sodium and ammonium Laureth sulphates have been related to cancer.
So, how do you pick the finest shampoo for your dogs?
Look for simple shampoos developed exclusively for dogs. Remember that a dog's pH differs from ours, so avoid shampoo for people. Ask businesses for a thorough list of their components to verify you're utilising a healthy shampoo. Don't settle for a generic "coconut soap base." Inquire about the contents of the base.
Here are a few samples of all-natural, non-toxic shampoo bases:
Certified Organic Coconut Oil*, Rosemary Extract, and Vitamin E *
Saponified (Saponified soap was created using Lye, which does not survive the soap-making process and is consequently safe) (Saponified soap was manufactured using Lye, which does not survive the soap-making process and is hence harmless.)
Saponified Coconut, Olive, and Jojoba Oils, Tea Tree Oil, Rosemary Oil, Sage Oil, Cedarwood Oil, Peppermint Oil, Sweet Orange Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Pine Needle Oil.