(AscendHealthy.com) – For some of us, our happy thoughts during a busy, stressful day might turn to the anticipation of a hot, fragrant bath to help us unwind. One popular way to add to the ambiance of a nice, relaxing soak is to pop in a bath bomb. The varieties are endless and very appealing to consumers because of their colors, scents and bubbly effect. While bath bombs may seem harmless, some dangers may lurk under the water. Pay attention to these hidden concerns before indulging.
1. Toxic Chemical Compounds
The hot water is running, and steam is rising, so why not pop in a bath bomb? The fizz and bubbles create a relaxing effect that most of us can’t resist. It all looks safe and soothing, but are these appearances deceiving?
Many bath bombs contain potentially toxic chemical compounds. Even though the labeling may suggest all-natural or organic, that doesn’t mean some ingredients couldn’t generate a chemical reaction.
When the bomb makes contact with water, it generates a gas-producing reaction, releasing carbon dioxide bubbles into the water. But it may pose a safety concern if someone is allergic to any of the ingredients, specifically starches or sodium. Both ingredients seem harmless, but ingesting some water accidentally or getting it in the eyes could cause serious irritation.
2. Changes to Skin Color
Many bath bombs come in various colors, some of which could potentially irritate the skin because of specific ingredients. Irritation may lead to burning, redness and rashes in sensitive skin areas. Some bath bombs are so strong that, in addition to changing the color of the water, they can leave dye behind on our skin, hair, and linens.
3. Fragrance Irritants
When we purchase bath bombs from the store, they are typically wrapped tightly enough we may not always be able to smell them. But they are generally labeled to let us know what scents and what aromatic effects to expect. For example, lavender or rose aromas are designed to promote calm and relaxation.
Yet, some products may be so strongly scented they cause sinus or even bronchial airway irritation. Using very strongly perfumed bath products might be dangerous, especially anyone who’s sensitive to certain scents or subject to allergic reactions.
4. Infection Risk
There are oodles of DIY recipes and instructions online for making homemade bath bombs. While all claim to induce relaxation and make the bath time experience more tranquil, there is no regulation on the safety or effectiveness of these products.
In fact, some fizzies have been known to cause vaginal irritation because they cause fluctuations in the skin’s pH levels in and around the vagina. For women with frequent yeast or bacterial infections, this could be an issue. Problems may also arise based on the frequency of use of these products (homemade or commercial). Commercial products tend to be buffered with citric acid to adjust for neutral pH, whereas many homemade recipes don’t consider pH.
5. Dangerous Ingredients
To stay safe, examine the ingredient list thoroughly before using any bath product. Knowing what’s in any product is the best way to remain safe. Healthline recommends we watch out for ingredients we are allergic to, as well as harmful chemicals like:
- Talc is associated with a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
- Parabens and benzene derivatives may disrupt the endocrine system.
- Artificial colorants and dyes are linked to a higher risk of ADD and brain cancer.
Some bombs even have fragments of glitter. Keep in mind that the composition of those items might not be included on the main ingredient list. Consider choosing natural-based products without dyes or plastic particles.
Relaxation is essential after a long day; we truly all need a way to decompress. However, with water therapy, it’s wise to pay attention to bath bomb details. If we opt for a bath bomb, we simply need to use caution and discretion to keep our peaceful moment from causing us unforeseen health hassles down the road.
~Here’s to Your Healthy Ascension
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