What You Need to Know to Avoid VOCs
A lot of people are worried about volatile organic compounds, better known as VOCs. These compounds can cause health issues like allergies and asthma—some have even been linked to cancer. Yet because you often can’t see or smell them, it’s difficult to know when your air has been compromised. Especially now that most new homes are built airtight for energy efficiency, VOCs are often trapped inside. Learn how to identify and avoid VOCs found in most American homes.
Ice Bucket Challenge Aside, Formaldehyde Triples ALS Risk
Last year’s ice bucket challenge raised more than $100 million for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis–better known as ALS or Lou Gehrig’s disease. But a recent study could be even more valuable, as it determines a connection between formaldehyde and ALS.
Spring Clean Your Closet From Toxic Chemicals
Is your closet in need of a good spring cleaning? You might want to weed out more than your winter sweaters: You could be harboring hidden toxic chemicals that are dangerous to your health. Here are a few to watch out for, plus some easy strategies to spring clean them out!
4 Steps to a Natural Brazilian Blowout
I hate my hair. How many times have you said that? For me, it’s the limp, wimpy, stick-straight stuff that greases up within hours of washing; for my curly-headed friends it’s the frizz, kinks and knots. And for all of us chemical treatments beckon, promising the perfect ‘do with no downtime. But the grass isn’t greener on the other side of the part: Chemical treatments, such as perms, relaxers and the so-called “Brazilian blowout,” depend on heavy doses of chemicals like formaldehyde, which has been classified as a “known human carcinogen” by the National Cancer Institute.
