Dr. Izabella Wentz, PharmD

Thyroid Pharmacist

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19 Active Ingredients Now Banned in Products

New FDA Ruling on Thyroid Toxic Products

Medically reviewed and written by Izabella Wentz, PharmD, FASCP

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If you’ve been following my work for a while, you likely know that what we put on our bodies is just as important as what we put in them.

Women on average use twelve personal care and cosmetics products per day, which amounts to approximately 168 different chemical ingredients! In contrast, men use an average of six personal care products, or an average of eighty-five chemicals, on a daily basis.

However, many people don’t realize that what we put on our skin eventually ends up circulating in our bodies. Often the topical application route actually ends up with us absorbing more of the toxin than we would have by swallowing it! This is because when we swallow a substance, our gut and liver process it first before it goes into the circulation system. When you apply substances via the skin, the substances skip the gatekeepers of the digestive tract and liver.

A subset of pharmacology is dedicated to the study of pharmacokinetics and how different administration routes can impact the amount of a substance that goes into the body’s circulation. The oral route of administration will result in the smallest amount of the substance moving into circulation, while alternative routes like rectal, vaginal, intravenous, intramuscular, inhalation, sublingual, and transdermal get directly into circulation.

So from a pharmacologist’s perspective, the skin is a huge absorptive organ for various substances, and there are so many harmful chemicals in our personal care products! These substances can act as endocrine disruptors that mimic and block hormone activity—this results in hormonal imbalances and affects thyroid function.

Last month the FDA officially announced a ban on 19 active ingredients commonly used in antibacterial hand soaps and body washes, due to the manufacturer’s inability to prove their safety and effectiveness. I’m happy to report that this ban includes two of the most commonly used active ingredients (and endocrine disruptors) in over-the-counter antibacterial soaps: triclosan and triclocarban.

Triclosan is similar in structure to thyroid hormone and has been shown to alter levels of thyroid hormone in animals with daily exposure. Studies have also linked triclosan to changes in the hormones estrogen and testosterone in animals. I’ve covered the effects of triclosan and other endocrine disrupting chemicals in my post, The Thyroid and Skin, and in my book, Hashimoto’s Root Cause back in 2013. I’m glad that the FDA is finally making a ruling to get these thyroid-disrupting chemicals out of our soaps!

Manufacturers have until September 6, 2017, to reformulate their products with approved ingredients, or they have to take them off the market.

Here’s the full list of ingredients included in the ruling:

  • Cloflucarban
  • Fluorosalan
  • Hexachlorophene
  • Hexylresorcinol
  • Iodophors (Iodine-containing ingredients)
    • Iodine complex (ammonium ether sulfate and polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate)
    • Iodine complex (phosphate ester of alkylaryloxy polyethylene glycol)
    • Nonylphenoxypoly (ethyleneoxy) ethanoliodine
    • Poloxamer—iodine complex
    • Povidone-iodine 5 to 10 percent
    • Undecoylium chloride iodine complex
  • Methylbenzethonium chloride
  • Phenol (greater than 1.5 percent)
  • Phenol (less than 1.5 percent)
  • Secondary amyltricresols
  • Sodium oxychlorosene
  • Tribromsalan
  • Triclocarban
  • Triclosan
  • Triple dye

While I was very excited to hear that the FDA is taking some action to reduce our chemical burden, I was disappointed to read that the ban only applies to products intended for use as consumer antiseptic soaps, hand washes, and body washes.

Unfortunately, it doesn’t include other products that contain triclosan such as hand sanitizers, wipes, deodorants, hairsprays, or toothpaste. These hazardous chemicals will continue to be in some products that most people put on or in their bodies on a daily basis. It also doesn’t cover any products used in healthcare settings, the food industry, antiseptic rubs, or products categorized as “first aid.”

But let’s celebrate this huge step in the right direction! The FDA did indicate that there may be more changes to come, so that’s encouraging news.

In June 2016, they issued a proposed rule, which requires manufacturers of hand sanitizers to produce data that the active ingredients in their hand sanitizers are known as safe and effective in reducing bacteria on the skin. If they are unable to produce this data, it could result in a similar action for these products. The FDA also explained that they intend to evaluate the use of OTC antiseptics in the food industry as a separate issue.

If you need to use an antimicrobial product for work or disinfecting purposes, I suggest using an alcohol hand rub or rinse product that doesn’t list triclosan in the ingredients.

At home, you have a little more control over what you use, so I encourage you to opt for organic. I use Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day hand soap, as it is free of triclosan, parabens, mea & dea, formaldehyde and artificial colors as well as Dr. Bronner’s Shikakai Body Wash as a hand soap alternative. Both of these soaps work well, don’t dry my hands out, plus they have a nice scent!

If you’re looking for triclosan (and fluoride) free toothpaste, I recommend Wellnesse Whitening Toothpaste which includes all-natural ingredients to support dental health and teeth remineralization, as well as Hyperbiotics Activated Charcoal Probiotic Toothpaste, which is uniquely designed with a targeted probiotic strain to help support healthy teeth and gums, by supporting the oral microbiome.

For deodorant, I recommend either Pretty Frank (formerly Primal Pit) or Tom’s of Maine. Chlorophylls are natural deodorants, so that’s a great option as well. Supplementing with chlorophylls like Now Foods and Protocol for Life Balance can help you reduce your need for deodorant. Better yet, don’t wear anything on your armpits if you don’t have to! If you’re off on the weekends or working from home, then you may not even need to wear deodorant, especially in the winter months.

For my face, I absolutely love Annmarie Skin Care. I fell in love with their products a few years ago and can’t say enough good things about them. I love how much they care about the ingredients that go into their products, and I’m so excited that they’ve put together a special trial package for my readers. It’s a great way to test out the products to see if you like them before you invest in a new line.

You can also search the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database for low toxicity and endocrine friendly products. This database ranks personal care products and companies based on safety and toxicity profiles. Ratings in the 1-2 range are best, and all Annmarie Skin Care products are in the 1-2 range. In fact, it’s the best ranges I’ve seen in products.

We can’t always control all the toxins we come in contact with, but when we can, it’s important to make the right choices. What are your thoughts on the FDA active ingredients ban? Were you using any of those chemicals unknowingly? If so, today’s a new day! Toss out the old and start fresh now.

References

  1. Bonner, L. FDA: Antibacterial soaps should be avoided. American Pharmacists Association. 2016. Available at: http://www.pharmacist.com/fda-antibacterial-soaps-should-be-avoided.
  2. Food and Drug Administration. Safety and Effectiveness of Consumer Antiseptics; Topical Antimicrobial Drug Products for Over-the-Counter Human Use. Federal Register. 2016. Available at: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2016/09/06/2016-21337/safety-and-effectiveness-of-consumer-antiseptics-topical-antimicrobial-drug-products-for.
  3. Wentz I. Non-Toxic Beauty Products That Won’t Sacrifice Your Health. ThyroidPharmacist.com. 2016. Available at: https://bruno-michael-wentz.dev01.rmkr.net/articles/are-you-sacrificing-your-health-for-external-beauty.
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Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please consult your physician for any health problems and before making any medical or lifestyle changes.

Lifestyle changes can result in improved thyroid function and/or an increased absorption of thyroid hormone medications, leading to a lower required dose and possible symptoms of hyperthyroidism at a dose that was previously stable. Please discuss lifestyle changes with your physician and ensure that your thyroid function is monitored every 6-8 weeks while making lifestyle changes. Symptoms of overmedication include, but are not limited to: rapid or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, irritability or mood swings, muscle weakness or tremors, diarrhea, menstrual irregularities, hair loss, weight loss, insomnia, chest pain, and excessive sweating. Do not start, change, increase, decrease or discontinue your medications without consulting with your physician.

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Comments

  2. Hi Dr. !

    I have tried Annmarie products. They are wonderful.❤️ I have recently been acquainted with Beautycounter. Have you heard of the company and which is healthier? Thank you for ALL you do. You have provided such an impact on my health. THANK YOU for what you do !

    Reply

    • Tracy- Thank you so much for sharing! I really like to use the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database for low toxicity and endocrine friendly products. This database ranks personal care products and companies based on safety and toxicity profiles. Ratings in the 1-2 range are best, and all Annmarie Skin Care products are in the 1-2 range. In fact, it’s the best ranges I’ve seen in products.

      http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/

      Reply

  3. Hi Isabella
    Can you tell me what you think of talcum/talc in body products and in supplements? Is it safe for consumption give it has no nutritional value?
    Thank you
    Jane

    Reply

    • Jane- Not everyone will need every single supplement! In fact, I believe that most nutrients should come from the diet, this is why I always list food sources for most of the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and probiotics that are depleted in Hashimoto’s in the book and on the blog. However, some may require/prefer supplements and the supplements on the website are a resource for those that do. I recommend getting tested for deficiencies to determine your need for a supplement as instructed in the book and blog. I also don’t recommend starting multiple supplements all at once. I recommend starting one at a time and then adding another a week or so later once it has been confirmed that the first supplement is not causing any harm.

      I do have a full supplements chapter in my book. Have you checked it out? Not everyone should be taking every supplement and the book will help uncover your root cause. This will help you figure out your supplementation.

      http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0615825796?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creativeASIN=0615825796&linkCode=xm2&tag=thyroipharma-20

      Reply

  4. I had heard that Colgate or Johnson and Johnson bought Tom’s of Maine. Do you know tjis to be true? If so, is it still on the “safe list”?

    Reply

  5. Since I had to send the german book to my daugther, it would be interesting to have the german nomenclature of all those names.

    Reply

    • Rita – thank you for following this page and for your support. 🙂

      Here is the list of chemicals with German Nomenclature

      Cloflucarban = Cloflucarban
      Fluorosalan = Fluorosalan
      Hexachlorophene = Hexachlorophen
      Hexylresorcinol = Hexylresorcinol
      Iodophors = Iodophore
      Iodine complex = Jodkomplex (ammonium ether sulfate = Ammoniumethersulfat and polyoxyethylene sorbitan monolaurate = Polyoxyethylensorbitanmonolaurat)
      Iodine complex = Jodkomplex (phosphate ester of alkylaryloxy polyethylene glycol = Phosphatester von Alkylaryloxypolyethylenglykol)
      Nonylphenoxypoly (ethyleneoxy) ethanoliodine = Nonylphenoxypoly (ethylenoxy) ethanoljod
      Poloxamer = Poloxamer Iodine complex = Ploxamer Jodkomplex
      Povidone = Povidon Iodine 5 to 10 percent = Jod 5 bis 10 Prozent
      Undecoylium chloride iodine complex = Undecoyliumchlorid-Iod-Komplex
      Methylbenzethonium chloride = Methylbenzethoniumchlorid
      Phenol (greater than 1.5 percent) = Phenol (größer als 1,5 Prozent)
      Phenol (less than 1.5 percent) = Phenol (größer als 1,5 Prozent)
      Secondary amyltricresols = Sekundäre Amyltricresole
      Sodium oxychlorosene = Natriumoxychlorosen
      Tribromsalan = Tribromsalan
      Triclocarban = Triclocarban
      Triclosan = Triclosan
      Triple dye = Dreifachfarbstoff

      Reply

  6. This is excellent news, thank you. I just shared this with my husband with whom I have been trying valiantly to purchase less toxic personal items like deodorant, shaving creme, toothpaste etc.

    I have your book and refer others to it all the time. I read your blog posts (and the posts and blogs of others) and I am trying very hard to educate myself regarding my autoimmune Hashimotos’ Thyroitis. I take 1/4 gram of Nature-Throid twice daily and have been on the AIP program now for one year and just about ready to start my reintroductions. Obviously I am feeling better.

    Last night I was listening to Tom Bryans, day one in the Betrayal Series Program, I hear someone say that “Patients with autoimmune could expect to live a shorter life span of approx. 26 years than a none autoimmunity person.” Did I hear that right? (I tried sending a post to Dr. Bryan but I think it is a “info” only type of post which means they willnot get my message.)

    Is this autoimmune conditions not diagnosed, not under control and not being treated or ALL autoimmune patients even those who are taking all the steps possible to heal and improve their health. I am newly diagnosed and age 65 already and this kind of scared me! Please elaborate. Thank you for all that you do.

    Reply

  8. I am surprised that I didn’t see any mention of shampoo choices. I prefer to stay away from SLS and occasionally use plain baking soda as a paste to wash my hair. I know this sounds strange ( or a science experiment) , but it works well and I rinse with vinegar and water.

    Reply

  9. Hi Izabelle, what about sunscreen? can you recommend one? or can you tell me what ingredient is the disrupts T4 to T3 conversion (it says that in your book) but we need sunscreen for Australian sun!

    Reply

    • Sandra- Here are the ingredients to avoid when looking for a good sunscreen: Retinyl palmitate, oxybenzenone. 🙂

      Reply

  10. Thank you so much for recommending Annmarie Skin Care. I ordered the sample skin care as well as the sample makeup. I tried everything as soon as it arrived in the mail. I was so impressed with everything, I made an order that day.! I’ve already noticed a difference in my skin. I have very dry skin and live in the desert. It’s been so hard trying to find a good, clean, healthy product that actually works. Annmarie is amazing stuff!

    Reply

  11. I cannot find chlorophyll (sodium copper chlorophyllin) without a significant dose of copper, including the two that you have linked to this post. Evidently, the RDA for copper is 900 mcg for ages 19+. Some other brands (e.g., the Vitamin Shoppe brand) mention that, in their 100 mg of chlorophyll (sodium copper chlorophyllin), 4mg is copper, ie, 440% RDA of copper. You mention copper toxicity in your Hashimoto’s Protocol book in chapter 12: Protocols for Removing Toxins. 440% from a single daily source is a lot. What to do?

    Reply

  12. Hi,
    the recommended products for chlorophyll are derived from alfalfa which belongs to the family of legumes. Since I stopped eating gluten, dairy, soy and legumes, I feel much better. What is you opinion about chlorophyll derived from alfalfa and cross-contamination with antinutrients (lectins, saponins, protease inhibitors, phytate, etc) which can impair nutrition/health, adversely affect gut function, increase intestinal permeability and promote autoimmune disease. Are my worries unfounded?
    Thanks in advance for you support.

    Reply

    • Boo – thank you for reaching out and sharing your journey! That’s a good question! I cannot say as I have not done the research. I’ll add this to my list of future article possibilities. I would love to hear more about your experiences here on this page!

      Reply

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