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From your shampoo to perfume, 10 ‘silent toxins’ in your home |

Sandy Verma | January 17, 2026 10:25 AM CST

Can you imagine, we practically live with toxins and most of us are not even aware of it! Look at your cleansing products, your make-up box, or kitchen shelf, you’ll find yourself surrounded by products which contain chemicals that are legal yet controversial due to their potential long-term health and environmental effects. Yes, you read that correctly. Also known as “silent toxins”, these chemicals don’t have any immediate or obvious impact but continuous exposure over years may raise issues. On this note, let’s have a look at 10 such silent toxic no one tell you about:1. ParabensFound in: Shampoos, lotions, makeupNot many must be aware of the fact that most of our shampoos, lotions and makeup products contain parabens. These are preservatives which are used to prevent mold and bacteria growth in the products. With frequent exposure, these can potentially interfere with hormone balance.How to avoid: Look for paraben-free products2. PhthalatesFound in: Fragrances, air fresheners, nail polishThen there are phthalates which are often used in scents so that the smell lasts longer. Studies associate them with hormonal issues, especially with prolonged exposure.How to avoid: Go for fragrance-free or phthalate-free products3. Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde Releasers

Found in: Hair straighteners, nail products, cleaning agentsFormaldehyde is a known irritant. Studies show its role causing respiratory issues. Most of your nail products and cleaning agents contain this.How to avoid: Read ingredient lists mentioned on the product label carefully. Avoid products with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.4. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

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Found in: Toothpaste, shampoos, face washThis is used in toothpaste and shampoos and face washes to create foam and lather. But this one rips the skin off its natural barrier which can cause dryness and irritation.How to avoid: Read the label carefully and avoid buying such products5. TriclosanFound in: Antibacterial soaps, toothpasteTriclosan has raised concerns about hormone disruption and antibiotic issues. In many countries, products containing triclosan are banned.How to avoid: Don’t buy without reading the label. 6. PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”)

non stick cookware

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Found in: Non-stick cookware, food packagingPFAS or “forever chemicals” can accumulate in the body. Research links them to immune and metabolic issues.How to avoid: Go for cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic cookware.7. Oxybenzone & OctinoxateFound in: Chemical sunscreensOxybenzone and octinoxate are found in UV filters which are effective but also controversial due to potential hormone disruption. They can also harm coral reefs.How to avoid: Go for mineral sunscreens8. Artificial Fragrance (“Parfum”)

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Found in: Cleaners, cosmetics, candlesThe word “fragrance” actually means hidden chemicals! Some of these are known for causing headaches and skin allergies.How to avoid: Go for essential-oil-based and unscented products9. Artificial Food Dyes (Red 40, Yellow 5)Found in: Packaged snacks, drinksThese synthetic colours are bad for health and are linked to gut irritation. How to avoid: Use natural food colour10. BPA & BPS

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Found in: Plastic bottles, food can liningsBPA and its substitute BPS are associated with estrogen-mimicking effects.

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How to avoid: Use glass, stainless steel, or BPA/BPS-free plastics only.They say, prevention is better than cure. It’s important to understand that exposure levels matter. Therefore, be aware and attentive of the products you are surrounded by! You can reduce exposure by reading ingredient labels carefully. If not required, reduce fragrance use. Also, avoid heating food in plastic containers. Awareness is not about fear but it’s about informed choices. These small changes often make the biggest difference!