TOXICOLOGY

AND
BIOMONITORING

THE STUDY OF TOXINS

AND CHEMICALS
SANDHYA REDDY
GRADE 11
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
 Introduction to chemicals
CHEMICALS SEEN IN PRODUCTS USED ROUTINELY
 Soaps
 Shampoos
 Moisturisers
 Makeup and Cosmetics
 Sunscreens
 Perfumes
 Toothpaste
CHEMICALS FOUND IN WATER
CHEMICALS FOUND IN ALCOHOLIC SUBSTANCES
BIOMONITORING
TREATMENT OF PATIENTS EXPOSED TO CHEMICALS AND TOXINS
BIBLIOGRAPHY
CONCLUSION
 INTRODUCTION
Chemicals make up every part of us. Some of them are helpful whereas
others are harmful. We are aware of the fact that chemicals are present in
our bodies and in our environment. In recent years humans are getting
exposed to more and more chemicals which adversely affect our health. The
aim of this research based report is to find out where toxins are commonly
found in our surroundings, how they affect our bodies and alternatives and
solutions to these problems.

INTRODUCTION TO CHEMICALS
 Toxicology refers to the study of poisons and toxic substances.
Toxins are chemical or physical substances, which produce adverse
responses or toxicity in biological organisms. These substances can
be further be divided into:
 Toxicants: are substances that either are made by man or come
from human activities
 Toxins: are substances that can be toxic, but, they're produced by

living organisms.
CHEMICALS SEEN IN PRODUCTS USED ROUTINELY

SOAPS

Soaps and facial cleansers are designed to remove dirt, sweat sebum, and
oils from the skin. They do so with the use of surfactants, chemical agents
that surround dirt and oil, dissolving them and making it easier for water to
wash them away.

Triclosan

There are several anti-bacterial soaps

currently available in the market that
contains the anti-microbial chemical called
Triclosan. It is also commonly found in
toothpaste and deodorants. While there has
not been much scientific evidence suggesting the benefit of Triclosan
containing soaps over regular soaps, there are several harmful effects.
This chemical is known to cause irritation to the skin and interfere with
the normal functioning of reproductive and thyroid hormones.

Formaldehyde

This chemical is commonly found in body washes, cleansers, shampoos

and conditioners among other things. It is added to the product as it
prevents bacterial growth. According to the International Agency for
Research on Carcinogens, it has been associated with occupational
cancers such as nasopharyngeal and nasal cancers. There have been
several cases of skin allergies and it can even affect the immune system.
Parabens

These have been in wide use in the cosmetic and beauty industry as a
preservative to prevent mold, bacteria and yeast from growing in the
products. They are commonly found in many body washes, shampoos
and cleansers amongst others. The use of this chemical has been linked
with breast tumors in women.

Lye

One of the main ingredients found in many soaps, it is classified as a

caustic chemical that has the potential to cause a lot of damage to the
skin. Though normally there would be a reaction between lye and fat
used in the soap-making process to generate glycerin as a by-product. If
the process has been followed correctly, there would be no free lye
available in the product. But if lye is present, it can dry out the skin and
even cause burning.

Fragrance

Companies have the liberty to pass on their chemical cocktail under the
fragrance label since that would mean not having to disclose all the
ingredients (it is a trade secret after all). However, many companies use
this label to sneak in some of the harmful chemicals such as phthalates
in the products. There have been cases reported where constant
exposure has resulted in asthma and migraines among others.

ALTERNATIVES:

 Try oil cleansing

 Brush dead skin cells off
 Try an all natural scrub
 Try handmade soaps

SHAMPOOS
Shampoo is a viscous liquid used to cleanse the scalp and hair by removing
unwanted sebum, dandruff, environmental dust, and residues of hair care
products

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate/Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLS)

Sulphates are a very common ingredient in shampoos as they help in
complete removal of sebum. They are known to have been the cause of
liver damage, skin rashes, depression, diarrhoea and eye damage. According
to Natural Society, many sulphates contain traces of dioxane, a known
carcinogen (cancer causing agent) that affects the working of the kidney
adversely.
Parabens
Parabens are xenoestrogens, which means that they have a similar
composition to hormones found in the human body. Parabens are used as a
preservative to prevent bacteria from growing in cosmetics and shampoos,
and it is likely that our skin can absorb them during topical use. Parabens
can mimic the hormone estrogen and have been linked to an increased
growth of breast cancer cells.

Formaldehyde

Out of all the chemicals, Formaldehyde probably has the most risks. It is a
well known carcinogen linked to leukemia which is the cancer of blood or
bone marrow. Methyleneglycol, Formalin, Methyleneoxide, Paraform,
Formicaldehyde, Methanal, Oxomethane, Oxymethylene are some of the
formaldehyde releasers used by various companies to divert attention from
their effects.
Dimethicone

It is a type of silicon that helps in making your hair feel greasy to give the
illusion that makes your hair look greasy. Dimethicone Copolyol and
Amodimethicone are common silicon oils .It forms an almost plastic-like
barrier on the outside of the skin and traps bacteria, sebum and impurities
with it. It is also an eye irritant, causes hair loss and irritations. Moreover, it
is non-biodegradable and extremely harmful to the environment.

Synthetic Fragrances and colours

Some ingredients in fragranced cosmetic products can disrupt the

reproductive systems.

ALTERNATIVES

Shikakai: Acacia concinna has been used traditionally for hair care in the
Indian subcontinent as part of the ancient ayurvedic modes of self care. It is
mild, having a naturally low pH, and doesn't strip hair of natural oils.
Popularly found in central India, Shikakai is also rich in antioxidants and
vitamins A, C, K, and D, which help nourish hair and keep it healthy.

Pre conditioning your hair instead of conditioning it after hair wash. Oiling
your hair with nourishing oils such as onion oil, olive oil, coconut oil, jojoba
oil and sweet almond oil can help in improving hair growth and strength
without using any synthetic substances.

MOISTURISERS

Moisturising creams are used to prevent dry skin, scaly skin and itchy skin,
they work by forming an oily layer on the top of the skin that traps water in
the skin.
Parabens
Parabens are a whole family of chemicals (methylparabens, propylparabens,
butylparabens, and ethylparabens) that help preserve shelf-life of products.
Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body disrupting our delicate hormonal
balance. They’ve been linked to breast cancer, and since they act as a
hormone disruptor they can lead to reproductive and fertility issues.
Fragrance
Often, the ingredients include tons of chemicals that can cause allergies,
hormone disruption and lead to bigger health problems reproductive issues
and infertility.

Alternatives
  Use natural moisturizers such as
almond oil and aloe Vera

MAKEUP AND COSMETICS

Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals that may be disruptive to the
endocrine systemA study by the University of Maryland reported that
exposure to phthalates could cause reproductive abnormalities and
decreased production of testosterone in males, as well as decreased
male fertility. Other studies show a link between phthalates and
premature delivery and endometriosis in women. They’re used to
plasticize products, making them more flexible or better able to hold in
color and scent. From deodorant to nail polish to scented lip balm, the
catch here is that these chemicals can be grouped under and listed as
“fragrance.”
Lead
It is a proven neurotoxin linked to miscarriage, reduced fertility, and
delays in the onset of puberty for females. About seven years ago, the
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found lead in over half of the 33 brands
of lipstick they tested. A more recent study by the FDA tested popular
brands and found 400 that contained up to 7.19ppm of lead.
Polyethylene glycols, or PEGs
They are petroleum-based compounds that are used to thicken,
soften, and gelatinize cosmetics, making them a common ingredient
in cream-based products. The main issue with PEGs is that they are
often contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane.
Ethylene oxide is a known human carcinogen, potentially harmful to
the nervous system and human development. 1,4-dioxane is a
possible human carcinogen that can remain in the environment for
long periods of time without degrading

Dibutyl phthalate, toluene, and formaldehyde

They are mainly found in nail polish and other nail products,
perfume, makeup remover. These chemicals, known as the “toxic
trio,” have been linked to birth defects, endocrine disruption,
headaches, and respiratory problems

Alternatives:

 Cacao and Cocoa Powder as eye shadow and eyeliner

 Coffee grounds as an exfoliant

 Homemade cosmetic recipes for eyeliners and mascaras using

beeswax, coconut oil and activated charcoal
  Mixture of coconut oil and starch to create a natural deodorant

SUNSCREENS

A sunscreen is a cream or lotion rubbed onto the skin to protect it from the
sun. Sunscreen includes active ingredients that help prevent the sun’s UV
radiation from reaching your skin.

Oxybenzone (also called “benzophenone-3” or “BP-3”)

It is an organic compound used as an ingredient in sunscreens because it

absorbs UVB and UVA rays .Oxybenzone has been found in human breast
milk, amniotic fluid, urine and blood, the FDA researchers said. Animal
studies have indicated that oxybenzone may disrupt the hormone system,
causing weak estrogenic activity.

Octinoxate(OCTY-METHOXYCINNAMATE)
It is reportedly the most widely used UVB-blocking agent in the skin care
industry because it is less irritating than other sunscreen ingredients.
Octinoxate
It has definitively, been found to be an “endocrine disruptor,” in animals,
which means that it can alter the way hormones work.

Alternatives:
 Cover up the most of your exposed skin using hats, sunglasses and
long sleeved clothes
 Carrot seed oil is rich in beta carotene, vitamin E, and vitamin A. These
have antioxidant properties that counteract the effects of free
radicals. Carrot seed oil delivers a high SPF of between 38 and 40

 Red raspberry seed oil can provide SPF protection from 28 all the way
up to 50. It has the strongest potential for preventing sun damage
while also moisturizing skin.

PERFUMES
Perfumes are a mixture of fragrant aromatic compounds usually in liquid
form, used to give the human body, animals, food, objects, and living-spaces
a desirable scent
Benzaldehyde
This substance is a known narcotic, lung and eye irritant. It causes nausea,
abdominal pain, and kidney damage.

Camphor
Can cause dizziness, confusion, nausea, muscle twitching, convulsions.

Methylene chloride
This substance has actually been banned by the FDA due to
severe toxic effects; however, the ban is not enforced as it still may be
found in labels listing “fragrance”. 

Styrene
National Toxicology Program and the National Academy of Science, have
declared styrene to be an anticipated human carcinogen” in 2011

Alternatives:
 DIY oil based perfumes with olive, jojoba, or even coconut oil. Natural

oils are easily absorbed into the skin and hydrating as well

 Natural solid perfume made using beeswax and jojoba oil.

TOOTHPASTE
Toothpaste is a paste or a gel used with a toothbrush  to clean and maintain
the aesthetics and health of teeth.
Fluoride
The fluoride used in toothpaste is sodium fluoride and is considered an
over-the-counter drug by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Ingesting
too much fluoride can cause permanent tooth discoloration, stomach
problems, skin rashes and impairment in glucose metabolism.

Artificial sweeteners
Sorbitol, a liquid that keeps toothpaste from drying out, is a laxative that
can cause diarrhea in children. Saccharin, another artificial sweetener, has
been linked to bladder cancer, brain tumors and lymphoma in rodents. 
Carrageenan

Derived from red seaweed, carrageenan is added to thicken toothpaste. It

has been shown to possibly cause inflammation in the intestine and colon
tumors.

Propylene Glycol
It is a mineral oil that in the industrial grade is used in antifreeze paints,
enamels, paints and airplane de-icers. Unfortunately it can cause cancer,
reproductive issues and skin irritation.

Alternatives:
  Baking Soda: A study from the Journal of Clinical Dentistry found that
Arm & Hammer claims that baking soda was effective at cleaning
teeth and removing plaque to fight off tooth decay.
 Oil pulling an ancient oral health technique that involves taking about
a tablespoon of carrier oil and swishing it around in your mouth for
around 20 minutes a day. Research has shown that it can help reduce
plaque and fight gingivitis.

CHEMICALS FOUND IN WATER

Lead:
 The most commonly found chemical this heavy metal can leach from lead
pipes and plumbing fixtures, especially when the water flowing through
them is corrosive. It can cause neurological and behavioral problems in
children and adverse health effects in adults

Chlorine
Chlorine is a powerful oxidant added to the water by several municipal
water systems to control microbes. Chlorine can be absorbed through
physical consumption as well as through your skin while bathing. Chlorine
can severely dry skin and hair and cause irritating effects to your eyes and
nose.
Nitrates
Nitrates are found in water mostly due to their role in fertilizers. can be
harmful to pregnant women and infants. In rare cases, exposed infants can
develop blue baby syndrome, a potentially fatal illness that prevents the
blood from carrying oxygen.

Arsenic
It is a semi-metal found in various foods and mostly in groundwater.
Elevated levels of arsenic lead to metabolism failure in the body causing
severe heart diseases, night blindness, cancer and even diabetes.
PRECAUTIONS AND SOLUTIONS
 It is important to locate the source of the contamination and fix the
problem .For example, lead and iron contamination(due to rusting of
pipes) can be eliminated by replacing pipes, fittings and fixtures.
 New sources for water supply should be developed in case the existing
supply is extensively contaminated with nitrate, salt, pesticides and
other chemicals. 
 Water supply protection is most effective before contamination
occurs. Surface water must never be allowed to flow down in the well.
Rainwater and runaway water should be sloped out of a water body
 Lastly and most importantly water must be boiled and treated to get
rid of any chemicals or pesticides.

CHEMICALS FOUND IN ALCOHOLIC

SUBSTANCES
 Bottles of beer, wine and spirits contain potentially harmful levels
of toxic elements, such as lead and cadmium, in their enameled
decorations
  Various chemicals are found in bottles of beers such as ,
Monosodium Glutamate (MSG),Propylene Glycol, Calcium
Disodium EDTA
 Big label brands that often contain Sulphur Dioxide and/or other
flavor enhancers and chemicals because they need to keep their
product consistent, especially in wines.

ALTERNATIVES

 The most obvious solution would be to stop consuming alcohol

altogether. But since it is a psychoactive substance with
dependence producing properties, organic labels of such
beverages is preferred
 Other alternatives to alcohol include:
Kombucha: This fermented and naturally lightly sparkling drink is
made from black or green tea and a sprinkling of bacteria.
Non-alcoholic mixed drinks that mimic the taste of their alcohol-
containing counterpart

BIOMONITORING
Human biomonitoring is a modern movement which aims to monitor and
measure the exposure of humans to various environmental substances,
natural or synthetic.
Many measurements or samples of a person can be taken during
biomonitoring, including body fluids, such as urine, blood, and samples from
various bodily tissues.
The levels of various substances and metabolites within blood and urine are
measured, to have an idea about the various pollutants, organic compounds
or free metals and trace elements that have accumulated in the person’s
body
HOW DO THESE TOXINS ENTER THE HUMAN BODY?
The most common way for these chemicals to enter the body is through the
skin, the airway or by ingestion. The extent to which the molecules are
taken up depends on many factors, including
 The size of the molecule
 The chemical and physical properties
 The time of exposure.

EXPOSURE TO POLLUTANTS AND THEIR ADVERSE EFFECTS

o Pollutants, such as Persistent organic pollutants(POPs) can have
varying forms of damage to the body.
o Oxidizing agents and carcinogens are very common in air and these
can form reactive oxygen species within the body, such as radicals and
peroxides.
o These can damage DNA and proteins, cause inflammation in tissues,
and chronic exposure can have lethal consequences. Exposure to
carcinogens and accumulation over long periods of time also
exponentially increase chances of cancer.

DAMAGE TO DNA

TREATMENT OF PATIENTS EXPOSED

TO CHEMICALS AND TOXINS
o Healthcare workers are mainly exposed to toxic chemicals through
direct contact with the agent on patients’ skin / clothing or by
inhalation or mucosal contact with a vapour hazard. The effective use
of PPE is dependent on availability and training
o Exposed patients should be decontaminated outside, prior to entry
into healthcare facilities, even if they are not displaying symptoms.
Removal of clothing is a highly effective method of decontamination.
o Identify the toxin based on the symptoms and order tests. Treat
accordingly.
 BIBLIOGRAPHY
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/chemistry/shampoo
https://www.who.int/environmental_health_emergencies/deliberate_events/interi
m_guidance_en.pdf?ua=1 https://www.nrdc.org/stories/whats-your-drinking-water
https://www.coursera.org/learn/chemicals-health/lecture/tW7Ve/lecture-0-
chemicals-and-health-course-overview-megan-latshaw
https://www.annmariegianni.com/10-toxic-ingredients-that-might-be-in-your-
makeup/

CONCLUSION

There is no doubt that we are getting exposed to more and more chemicals on a daily
basis. And the dangers of exposure to such toxins are increasing by the day. It is
important for us to use products that do not contain such harmful substances or make
all natural products by ourselves. Most importantly more awareness should be spread
about this topic as there is little to do after we start showing symptoms. Furthermore
in the long run it is better to protect ourselves from toxins and stop exposing ourselves
to such chemicals than seek treatment when it is too late