Unexpected Risks of Body Care Products on Heart Health & Stroke

When you think about protecting your heart, the risks of body care products likely don’t come to mind. Yet personal care products like nail polish, lotion, shampoo, cosmetic product, and even lip balm people use daily often contain toxic chemicals that have been linked to heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases.

These dangerous chemical compounds often enter the human body through the skin, inhalation, or even ingestion in trace amounts. As stewards of our health and homes, it’s time to take these findings seriously. It’s time to detox our body care products and choose alternatives that honor our health and homes.

Let’s uncover the hidden risks of toxic substances in skincare products, cosmetic formulations, and hair products and explore safer options for you and your family.

Heart Health Impacts From Personal Care Products

While we carefully monitor our diets and exercise routines, we rarely think twice about what we put on our skin. Yet studies link prolonged exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, like formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and phthalates, to adverse health effects such as increased blood pressure, heart rhythm disruptions, and inflammation.

The beauty and personal care products industry markets a wide variety of items promising soft skin, shiny hair, fragrant cleanliness, and a youthful glow. Body care products are a cornerstone of daily hygiene and self-care. However, many of these products are far from harmless.

A 2024 study published by Environmental Health Perspectives highlighted that certain chemicals in lotions, shampoos, and deodorants increase the risk of cardiovascular complications, particularly in women and older adults.

The effects of these chemicals on heart health can range from subtle changes to life-threatening conditions.

Increased Blood Pressure

Chemical exposure to phenols, parabens, and BPA have all been linked to elevated blood pressure. By disrupting hormonal balance, these chemicals increase vascular resistance, making it harder for the heart to pump blood efficiently. Over time, this strain can lead to chronic hypertension—a major risk factor for heart attacks and strokes. Pregnant women and middle-aged women are particularly vulnerable to these effects, as they increase the risk of preeclampsia and other adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Heart Disease and Stroke

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates, formaldehyde, and triclosan promote oxidative stress and inflammation, which damage blood vessels and increase plaque buildup in the arteries. This accelerates atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of most heart attacks and strokes.

Arrhythmias and Heart Rhythm Disorders

Phenols like BPA interfere with cardiac electrical activity, leading to arrhythmias. In severe cases, these irregular rhythms can cause sudden cardiac arrest.

Higher Mortality Rates

Long-term exposure to phthalates and BPA has been associated with higher rates of cardiovascular mortality. A Belgian study found that individuals with high exposure to toxic chemicals—such as those used in personal care products—had a significantly higher risk of dying from heart disease.

7 Toxic Chemicals in Body Care Products: The Hidden Threat

Let’s look closely at some of the most concerning chemical ingredients that present heart disease and stroke risks. And most importantly, let’s see where they hide!

1. Phenols

Phenols are used for their antiseptic, preservative, and fragrance-enhancing properties. Common types include triclosan, butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA).

Body care products containing phenols:

• Antibacterial soaps and hand washes
• Deodorants and antiperspirants
• Sunscreens
• Hair dyes and treatments
• Fragrances and perfumes
• Nail polish and removers
• Exfoliating products

Phenols, such as triclosan and BHA/BHT, are used as preservatives and antimicrobial agents in body care products. Prolonged exposure can negatively impact cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health:

Heart Health Risks:

• Oxidative Stress: Phenols generate free radicals, damaging blood vessels and promoting atherosclerosis, a leading cause of heart disease.
• Endocrine Disruption: They interfere with hormone balance, potentially increasing blood pressure and the risk of heart arrhythmias.
• Inflammation: Phenols exacerbate inflammation, which contributes to the development of coronary artery disease.

Stroke Risks:

• Vascular Damage: Phenols impair endothelial function, reducing the flexibility of blood vessels and increasing susceptibility to clot formation or rupture.
• Neurotoxicity: Some phenols may harm neurons and brain blood vessels, raising the likelihood of ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes.

Studies have also linked phenols, including DMDM hydantoin, bisphenol A (BPA) and bisphenol F (BPF), to changes in heart rhythm, including prolonged QT intervals and arrhythmias, as well as elevated blood pressure. And these findings showed impact to both men and women.

2. Parabens

Parabens are widely used preservatives to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. Common parabens include methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.

Body care products containing parabens:

• Moisturizers and lotions
• Shampoos and conditioners
• Facial cleansers and makeup removers
• Makeup products (foundations, concealers, mascaras, lipsticks)
• Sunscreens
• Deodorants and antiperspirants
• Shaving creams and aftershave
• Baby products (shampoos, wipes, lotions)

Parabens, such as methylparaben and propylparaben, are widely used preservatives that mimic estrogen and disrupt endocrine function, impacting heart and brain health:

Heart Health Risks:

• Endocrine Disruption: Parabens can increase estrogenic activity, which has been linked to elevated blood pressure and a higher risk of heart disease.
• Chronic Inflammation: Parabens promote low-grade inflammation in the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of plaque buildup in arteries.
• Mitochondrial Damage: Parabens impair energy production in cells, including heart muscle cells, weakening the heart over time.

Stroke Risks:

• Blood Pressure Elevation: Parabens can contribute to hypertension, a major risk factor for stroke.
• Blood Vessel Damage: They weaken arterial walls, increasing the risk of ruptures and hemorrhagic strokes.
• Clot Formation: Parabens may disrupt normal blood clotting mechanisms, elevating the risk of ischemic stroke.
• Hormone Disruption: Parabens mimic estrogen in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances that can increase blood pressure and disrupt heart function. Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable, as elevated blood pressure can increase the risk of preeclampsia and long-term heart problems.
• Cardiovascular Impact: Studies show that exposure to parabens during pregnancy can increase the risk of hypertension, impacting both maternal and fetal health.

Yes, phenols may keep your favorite lotions and makeup fresh—but at a hidden cost to your heart health.

A 2024 Frontiers in Public Health study found that adolescent girls who use makeup daily had significantly higher levels of parabens in their system. The cumulative effect of daily exposure can build up over time, increasing the risk of heart disease and hypertension, and impacting human health for the worse. While these toxic chemicals extend the shelf life of these products, they come at a cost.

3. PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”)

PFAS, or “forever chemicals,” are a class of synthetic substances that are widely used for their water- and stain-resistant properties. Unfortunately, these chemicals are incredibly persistent, both in the environment and in the human body, earning their nickname.

Body care products containing PFAS:

• Waterproof and long-lasting makeup: mascaras, eyeliners, lipsticks, foundations
• Hair care products: heat-protectant sprays, anti-frizz treatments
• Nail polish
• Moisturizers and lotions
• Sunscreens
• Shaving creams
• Dental floss

Heart Health Risks:

• Hormone Disruption: PFAS are known endocrine disruptors that interfere with hormones controlling blood pressure and inflammation. This imbalance increases strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Cardiovascular Impact: Research from the Mayo Clinic found that women exposed to higher PFAS levels had a 70% increased risk of high blood pressure, a major factor in heart disease and stroke.
• Cumulative Effects: PFAS build up in the body over time, contributing to chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and long-term risks of heart disease and hypertension.

Stroke Risks:

• Elevated Blood Pressure (Hypertension): PFAS exposure is linked to higher blood pressure, a significant risk factor for both ischemic (clot-related) and hemorrhagic (bleeding-related) strokes. PFAS disrupt the body’s natural regulation of blood vessel dilation, leading to vascular stiffness.
• Chronic Inflammation: PFAS chemicals induce low-grade, systemic inflammation that can damage blood vessels over time, increasing the likelihood of plaque buildup and vessel rupture.
• Vascular Dysfunction: PFAS interfere with endothelial function, impairing the ability of blood vessels to respond to changes in blood flow. This dysfunction makes blood vessels more prone to injury, clots, and hemorrhages.
• Increased Clot Formation: PFAS have been shown to alter blood clotting factors, making blood more prone to coagulation. This increases the risk of ischemic stroke caused by blocked arteries in the brain.
• Oxidative Stress: PFAS generate free radicals, leading to oxidative damage in blood vessels and brain tissues. This contributes to both vascular aging and a higher likelihood of stroke.
• Neurovascular Impacts: PFAS accumulate in brain tissues and blood vessels, potentially disrupting the blood-brain barrier and reducing the brain’s ability to regulate blood flow during stress or injury.

Daily use of products like waterproof makeup, sunscreens, and hair products exposes us to PFAS without realizing the harm they can cause. Women, especially middle-aged women, face the greatest risk due to their higher usage of cosmetic products and body care products.

4. Phthalates

Phthalates, commonly used as plasticizers and fragrance stabilizers in body care products, are known endocrine disruptors. Prolonged exposure can have significant impacts on heart health and increase stroke risk through various mechanisms.

Body care products containing phthalates:

• Perfumes and fragrances
• Deodorants
• Lotions, moisturizers, and body washes
• Shampoos, conditioners, and hair styling products (e.g., sprays)
• Nail polishes and makeup (lipsticks, mascaras, foundations)
• Sunscreens
• Baby products (lotions, shampoos, wipes)

In addition to being used to apply synthetic fragrances, phthalates are also used to make products softer or easier to apply. These chemicals may be common, however, they are far from benign. Studies show the following impact to human health and your body’s ability to function the way God designed.

Heart Health Risks

• Endocrine Disruption: Phthalates mimic hormones like estrogen, leading to hormonal imbalances that affect cardiovascular function. This disruption can elevate blood pressure and increase the risk of heart disease.
• Elevated Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Phthalate exposure is associated with higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Hypertension is a key risk factor for heart attacks and other cardiovascular diseases.
• Heart Rhythm Abnormalities: Research suggests that phthalates can interfere with normal heart electrical activity, potentially leading to arrhythmias and increased strain on the heart.
• Weakened Heart Function: Phthalates may impair mitochondrial function in heart cells, reducing the heart’s ability to pump blood effectively over time.

Stroke Risks

• Hypertension and Stroke: Phthalate-induced high blood pressure directly contributes to the risk of both ischemic (clot-related) and hemorrhagic (bleeding-related) strokes.
• Vascular Dysfunction: Phthalates disrupt endothelial function, weakening blood vessels and reducing their ability to adapt to changes in blood flow, making them more prone to rupture or blockage.
• Increased Risk of Blood Clots: Chronic exposure to phthalates can increase blood viscosity and platelet aggregation, heightening the risk of clot formation and ischemic stroke.
• Neurovascular Impacts: Phthalates have been linked to disrupted blood-brain barrier integrity, making the brain more vulnerable to vascular injuries and strokes.
• Atherosclerosis and Stroke: Phthalates promote plaque buildup in arteries, narrowing blood vessels and increasing the likelihood of strokes due to restricted blood flow to the brain.

Cardiovascular Mortality: Research published by Harvard Health revealed that individuals with higher urinary phthalate levels were significantly more likely to die from cardiovascular disease. This was particularly true for older adults with existing heart conditions.

Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: Prolonged exposure to phthalates causes oxidative stress, which inflames the cardiovascular system and damages blood vessels. This chronic inflammation is a key driver of heart attacks and strokes.

It’s important to note that products marketed as “unscented” can still contain phthalates to mask other odors, so label-reading is essential.

5. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde, a common preservative and disinfectant in body care products, poses significant risks to heart health and increases stroke susceptibility due to its toxic effects on the cardiovascular and nervous systems.

Body care products containing formaldehyde:

• Shampoos, conditioners, and hair treatments (e.g., keratin treatments)
• Body washes, soaps, and shower gels
• Lotions, moisturizers, and sunscreens
• Nail polishes, nail hardeners, and nail treatments
• Makeup (foundations, mascaras, eyeliners)
• Deodorants and antiperspirants
• Baby products (shampoos, lotions, wipes)

Formaldehyde triggers systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, which can damage blood vessel walls and increase the risk of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of coronary artery disease, which can lead to heart attacks.

Heart Health Risks

• Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: Formaldehyde triggers oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, damaging blood vessel walls and promoting atherosclerosis, a leading cause of coronary artery disease.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):Chronic exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to vascular stiffness and dysfunction, leading to elevated blood pressure—a major risk factor for heart disease.
• Heart Rhythm Disturbances: Formaldehyde disrupts electrical signaling in cardiac cells, potentially causing arrhythmias and increasing strain on the heart.
• Impaired Cardiac Function: Prolonged exposure can weaken heart muscles, leading to reduced blood-pumping efficiency and a higher risk of heart failure.
• Atherosclerosis Development: Formaldehyde contributes to plaque buildup in arteries by damaging endothelial cells and exacerbating inflammation, which restricts blood flow to the heart and other organs.

Stroke Risks

• Blood Vessel Damage: Formaldehyde weakens the structure of blood vessels, increasing the risk of hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding in the brain) due to vessel rupture.
• Clot Formation: Exposure promotes platelet aggregation and increases the risk of clot formation, a key factor in ischemic stroke (caused by blocked blood flow to the brain).
• Hypertension: Formaldehyde-induced high blood pressure is a critical factor in stroke risk, particularly for both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.
• Neurovascular Impacts: Formaldehyde affects the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, making the brain more vulnerable to vascular damage and stroke.
• Reduced Brain Oxygenation: Formaldehyde exposure can impair blood flow regulation to the brain, increasing the risk of ischemic events due to insufficient oxygen delivery.

6. Bisphenol A (BPA)

BPA, a chemical commonly found in plastics and certain products, can have significant impacts on heart health and increase the risk of stroke through its endocrine-disrupting properties and other harmful mechanisms.

Body care products containing BPA:

• Plastic packaging for lotions, shampoos, and conditioners
• Body washes and soaps in plastic containers
• Sunscreens in plastic tubes or bottles
• Nail polish and remover packaging
• Makeup products in plastic cases (e.g., compacts, mascaras, lip gloss tubes)
• Deodorants in plastic containers
• Baby products (shampoos, lotions, soaps in plastic bottles)
• Feminine hygiene products with plastic applicators or packaging

BPA is a well-known endocrine disruptor that can leach into products from their packaging. Once absorbed, BPA enters the bloodstream and begins wreaking havoc.

Heart Health Risks

• Blood Pressure Spikes: A study published in Hypertension found that BPA exposure caused acute blood pressure increases after just a few hours.
• Endocrine Disruption: BPA mimics estrogen, interfering with hormone regulation. This can lead to imbalances that affect cardiovascular health, such as increased blood pressure and inflammation.
• High Blood Pressure: BPA exposure is linked to acute increases in blood pressure, likely due to its effect on endothelial function and vascular stiffness. Chronic hypertension is a major risk factor for heart disease.
• Atherosclerosis: BPA contributes to the buildup of plaque in arteries by promoting oxidative stress and inflammation, increasing the risk of coronary artery disease and heart attacks.
• Arrhythmias and Cardiac Stress: BPA exposure has been shown to disrupt normal heart rhythms by interfering with calcium signaling in cardiac cells, leading to arrhythmias and increased cardiac stress
• Heart Failure: Long-term exposure to BPA may weaken the heart muscle, reducing its ability to pump blood efficiently and increasing the risk of heart failure.

Stroke Risks

• Vascular Dysfunction: BPA damages the endothelium (the lining of blood vessels), reducing its ability to regulate blood flow and increasing the risk of both ischemic (clot-based) and hemorrhagic strokes.
• Increased Risk of Blood Clots: BPA exposure promotes platelet activation, making blood more likely to clot. Clots can block blood flow to the brain, causing ischemic strokes.
• Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: BPA-induced oxidative stress damages blood vessels in the brain, impairing their function and increasing the likelihood of stroke.
• Hypertension and Stroke: BPA’s role in elevating blood pressure is a key contributor to stroke risk. Prolonged hypertension caused by BPA exposure can damage brain arteries, making them more prone to rupture (hemorrhagic stroke).
• Neurovascular Impact: BPA can impair neurovascular coupling, reducing the brain’s ability to regulate blood flow during periods of stress or injury, heightening stroke susceptibility.

It’s important to note that “BPA-free” alternatives pose similar risks due to chemicals like BPS.

Manufacturers have replaced BPA with Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol F (BPF) in many plastic products labeled “BPA-free.” However, research indicates that BPS and BPF share similar structural and chemical properties to BPA, which means they can also disrupt the endocrine system and cause similar health issues.

These chemicals can still leach into food and beverages, especially when exposed to heat or wear and tear. When selecting products, be mindful that “BPA-free” does not necessarily mean safe, and it’s best to stick with alternatives like glass or stainless steel.

If you’re storing homemade body care products, opt for glass containers whenever possible to help eliminate this risk.

7. Triclosan and Triclocarban

Triclosan and triclocarban are antimicrobial agents commonly found in personal care products. These chemicals pose significant risks to heart health and stroke susceptibility due to their impact on hormonal systems, cardiovascular function, and vascular integrity.

Body care products containing PFAS:

• Cosmetics
• Hand sanitizer
• Toothpaste and mouthwash
• Deodorants
• Lotions and creams

Triclosan and triclocarban were once valued active ingredients praised for their antibacterial properties. Now, they’re under scrutiny for their harmful effects.

Heart Health Risks

• Endocrine Disruption: Both triclosan and triclocarban interfere with thyroid hormone regulation, which can lead to cardiovascular dysfunction and elevated heart disease risk.
• Oxidative Stress and Inflammation: These chemicals increase oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in the cardiovascular system, promoting atherosclerosis and blood vessel damage.
• Heart Muscle Weakness: Studies suggest triclosan can impair mitochondrial function in cardiac cells, leading to reduced efficiency in heart pumping and potential heart failure over time.
• Arrhythmias: Triclosan disrupts calcium signaling in heart cells, increasing the likelihood of arrhythmias and irregular heartbeats, which strain cardiac function.
• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Chronic exposure to these chemicals may lead to blood vessel stiffness and increased blood pressure, a major risk factor for heart disease.

Stroke Risks

• Vascular Damage: Triclosan and triclocarban damage endothelial cells that line blood vessels, increasing the risk of vessel rupture or blockage, which can cause strokes.
• Clot Formation: Both chemicals promote platelet aggregation, increasing the likelihood of blood clots that can block blood flow to the brain, resulting in ischemic strokes.
• Neurovascular Impacts: Triclosan may disrupt the blood-brain barrier, making brain blood vessels more vulnerable to injury and increasing stroke susceptibility.
• Hypertension and Stroke: Elevated blood pressure caused by triclosan exposure contributes to stroke risk, especially for hemorrhagic strokes (bleeding in the brain).
• Cerebral Oxidative Stress: Triclosan increases oxidative damage to brain blood vessels, impairing their function and increasing stroke risk over time.

In 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned triclosan from nonprescription antiseptic wash products (i.e. hand soaps, bar soaps, and body washes).

Though some manufacturers have phased out triclosan, it remains in many antibacterial products on the market. This is one of the reasons we like to make our own hand soap, or only buy from trusted companies.

Your Family’s Risks from Body Care Chemicals?

As you may expect, if your job requires you to be exposed to conventional body care products this is an unavoidable occupational hazard. Your home is something you can control 100%.

Your home is meant to be a safe haven—a place where your loved ones can thrive, not face hidden dangers. Yet, the personal care products we rely on daily could be quietly impacting the health of everyone under your roof.

All in all, everyone in your home is at risk if you’re using these products.

• Your Little Ones: Children’s growing bodies and delicate skin make them especially vulnerable to harmful chemicals like phthalates and parabens. These toxins, found in shampoos, lotions, and body washes, can disrupt hormone development and even cause long-term health issues like skin sensitivities and respiratory irritation.
• Mamas-to-Be: If you’re pregnant, you’re not just caring for yourself—you’re protecting your little one too. Chemicals like formaldehyde in hair treatments and PFAS in waterproof cosmetics can cross the placenta, potentially interfering with your baby’s development and increasing risks of pregnancy complications.
• You and Your Spouse: Daily exposure to chemicals like triclosan in antibacterial soaps and BPA in product packaging adds up over time. These toxins can elevate your risk of high blood pressure, hormonal imbalances, and even heart disease. Prioritizing safer choices ensures you stay healthy for the ones you love.
• Grandparents: With aging bodies and more fragile immune systems, our cherished elders are particularly at risk from the cumulative effects of toxic ingredients like heavy metals in makeup and synthetic fragrances in moisturizers. These can worsen cardiovascular conditions and skin sensitivities.
• Even Your Fur Babies: Pets often come into contact with personal care product residues on your skin, such as lotions or creams containing parabens or phthalates. These harmful ingredients can be absorbed through their skin or ingested, potentially leading to health issues over time.

You have the power to create a healthier, safer environment for your family by choosing products that nurture, not harm. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress. Swapping out harmful products for natural, non-toxic alternatives is a step toward a healthier, happier future for the ones you hold dear. You’ve got this!

How to Protect Your Heart (and Skin)

The good news is that small changes to your body care routine can have a big impact on your health. Here’s how you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals:

1. Switch to Natural Alternatives

Opt for body care products made with clean, natural ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and essential oils. Mama Z loves to create homemade body butters, deodorants, and hair products that nourish the skin without harmful additives. You can find plenty of DIY body care recipes on our Natural Living Family website!

2. Read Labels Carefully

Look for labels that say:

“Paraben-free”, “Phthalate-free”, “Triclosan-free”, “BPA-free” and so on. Avoid products with long lists of synthetic chemicals or artificial fragrances. The fewer ingredients, the better!

3. Use Glass Containers

Switch to glass containers for homemade or store-bought products whenever possible. Unlike plastic, glass doesn’t leach harmful chemicals into your lotions, shampoos, or toothpaste.

4. Limit Fragrance-Heavy Products

Synthetic fragrances are a major source of phthalates. Instead, choose products scented with essential oils like lavender, lemon, or peppermint for a natural and safe alternative.

5. Avoid Antibacterial Soaps

Triclosan and sodium laureth sulfate are unnecessary for most household use. Stick to simple soap and water for effective daily hygiene without the added heart disease risks. You can buy from companies that are trusted to use only safe, natural ingredients. Or you can make your own hand soap, facial cleansers, and other body washes to control the ingredients you’re exposed to right from the start!

6. It’s DIY Time! Make Your Own Cosmetic Products

It’s so simple to make homemade lip balms without toxic chemical ingredients and use natural food colorings for DIY lip stains and lipsticks. There are a lot of ingredients in cosmetics that aren’t safe, so read labels carefully on anything you purchase to avoid heavy metals, parabens, and more.

As stewards of our health and homes, we have a responsibility to protect our families from hidden dangers. By being mindful of the chemicals in body care products and switching to safer alternatives, we can reduce our risks of heart disease and stroke.

Remember, our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). By caring for them thoughtfully and intentionally, we honor the gift of life God has given us. It’s a simple thing to make a small switch and minimize exposure to harmful substances and prioritize our long-term well-being.

Are you ready to detox your body care routine? Share your favorite natural products or DIY recipes in our Facebook support group. We’d love to see you kick this unexpected risk for heart attack and stroke out of your bathroom cabinets once and for all!