As soon as bath bombs were introduced to the market, they grew in popularity and variety. We can't deny that a fizzy bath doesn't take relaxation time to an entirely new level.
Unfortunately, we also have to be honest about the complex dyes, fragrances, and glitter used to make these psychedelic-like rainbows of color and relaxation in the tub. Sure, they contain nourishing oils that moisturize our skin. Still, there is an anxiety that comes with reading the ingredients list.
Just an FYI, but you might be disturbed to find hormone-disrupting chemicals and possible disease-triggering dyes that infiltrate our mucous membranes. More companies are trying to make safe bombs, and you can even make them yourselves.
Are Bath Bombs Safe? Let's Take A Look
Fake Fragrances That Are Toxic
Synthetic scents or fragrances are one of the most toxic ingredients found in bath and body products. Around 95 percent of chemicals used in synthetic fragrances come from petroleum or crude oil.
Looking further, we found many known and suspected endocrine disruptors, one being phthalates that trigger hormonal mayhem, increasing the risk of diseases. Infertility, type 2 diabetes, and breast cancer are significant concerns. One major problem is that it can take decades between exposure before experiencing any symptoms.
We don't even want to get started on how exposure is hazardous for developing babies in the womb, babies, and young children. Keep your eye out for ingredient terms like "fragrance," Fragrance oil blend," "fragrance oils," and anything similar. Look for all-natural and organic ingredients certified by the USDA.
Food Dye And Our Bloodstream
FAKE food dye is a risk when consumed in the food we eat. A study from 2013 found that our skin can absorb toxic dyes, primarily through the recently shaved skin and mucous membranes. The dye is absorbed directly into our bloodstream rather than breaking down in the gut and detoxed through the liver.
Some common dyes used in various bath bombs have been shown to cause allergy-like reactions and symptoms of ADHD in little ones. If that's not bad enough, some are contaminated with cancer-causing substances. There is a risk of brain cancer, kidney and adrenal cancer development. We'll be skipping the bath bombs until we find something natural and safe!
UTIs
There are common skin allergens and other ingredients in bath bombs and bubbles. When these ingredients make contact with our genital area, it can trigger Urinary Tract Infections. We would never think that a bath bomb, something made for soaking, would cause a UTI! Not to mention, showers are best for preventing urinary tract infections.
Let's Talk Glitter
Some bath bombs are free of glitter, but many are coming full of it. That glitter is tiny pieces of plastic that aren't biodegrading when it washes down the drain. Also, plastic glitter shouldn't be close to mucous membranes or the genitals.
Yeast Infection, Ugh!
The chemical fragrances in the "fragrance" category can disrupt the natural pH balance of our private lady bits. The disruption and imbalance lead to vaginal yeast infections, ugh!
Is Natural Boric Acid A Safe Ingredient In Bath Bombs?
Various store-bought bath bombs, as well as homemade DIY recipes, contain boric acid. Boric acid can be beneficial for treating vaginal yeast and athlete's foot because of its antifungal properties. However, there is a downside.
There is strong evidence that boric acid acts as a hormone disruptor for humans. It's been banned for use in cosmetics by Canada and Japan. The Canadian government also recommends avoiding using boric acid as pest control and the practice of arts and crafts. According to Canadian health officials, overexposure to boric acid can potentially cause reproductive and developmental health effects.
A Safer Solution
Some things are best made by yourself. If you don't have the time or desire to make your own DIY Bath Bomb, you could do a bit of research and find companies that use only pure, safe, and chemical-free products. Find one you like and spread the news.
Dr. Axe has an excellent Wild Orange & Rose Oil Bath Bomb recipe. The ingredients are simple, and there are no chemical products used. While some people with allergies might find some elements troublesome, there are always alternatives.
