Choosing a Fly Spray....

Not every "Natural" Fly Spray is created equal...The Gilded Paddock has formulated our Normal and Sensitive Fly Sprays to be 100% Natural...that means that each and every ingredient in them is natural (not just a few of them).  The difference between our Normal and Sensitive Version is quite simple, some horses have skin sensitivities or are prone to allergies - so we crafted a milder Sensitive version that does not contain Lemongrass or Neem Oil, as those ingredients, while beneficial, can irritate the skin on sensitive horses.  See our Fly Spray Product for detailed ingredient list for each.  Now onto other considerations when choosing a fly spray.

Just because the front label says it is natural or pesticide free does NOT mean that it is.  Have you been wondering what is in your Fly Spray?  Let's take a look at some of the ingredients commonly found in other 'Natural' Fly Sprays that could be harmful....

First and foremost, if your fly spray is EPA Est. or EPA Registered (look on the label, it will have a registration #), that is a clear indication that it contains a PESTICIDE that is regulated by the EPA. 

So now on to the ones that list "Natural Ingredients" or "Natural Actives" on the label...

Some ingredients that we are not natural, but may be in those "other" fly sprays that say they are natural and/or have natural ingredients are listed below, you can also visit our NO LIST for more information: 

  • DMDM Hydantoin - this is used in formulations as a preservative, it is also known as a formaldehyde donor because it slowly releases formaldehyde over time as it breaks down in the product.  Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen (by the World Health Organization).
  • Sodium Acrylate Crosspolymer - used to stabilize or emulsify a formulation, this is a synthetic compound.  It can cause skin irritation.
  • Propylene Glycol - this is a derivative of petroleum; it has been found in some of the most hazardous waste sites in the country, but in normal amounts, it's not considered unsafe. But the fact that it's also an ingredient in antifreeze raises concerns.
  • Pemulen TR #2 - a synthetic polymer used primarily as a rheology modifier in cosmetic and personal care formulations. Basically an emulsifier.
  • Tetrasodium EDTA - This is a preservative that's made from formaldehyde and sodium cyanide. It is also a penetration enhancer, meaning it breaks down the skin's protective barrier.
  • Methylparaben - a chemical compound that's used as a preservative and fragrance. The concern with these chemicals is that scientific studies suggest that parabens can disrupt hormones in the body and harm fertility.
  • Polysorbate 20 or 80 - all of them are exthoxylated surfactants (used to mix oil and water), Ethoxylated ingredients can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, and 1,4-dioxane, which is likely to be a human carcinogen. 1,4-dioxane has also been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.
  • Oleth 10 - a synthetic polymer composed of oleyl alcohol and PEG (polyethylene glycol). Due to the presence of PEG, this ingredient is may contain potentially toxic manufacturing impurities such as 1,4-dioxane.
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate - that is often referred to as SLS, it is a sulfate (See our No List on why we do not use Sulfates in our products)
  • Octanoic Acid - from the Safety Data Sheet: Strong caustic effect on skin and mucous membranes. Corrosive liquid, acidic, organic, n.o.s. 
  • Nonanoic Acid - also known as Pelargonic Acid, from Safety Data Sheet: Causes skin irritation. Causes serious eye irritation. Harmful to aquatic life.

     

    Decanoic Acid - Safety Data Sheet: H315: Causes skin irritation. H319: Causes serious eye irritation. H412: Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects. P264: Wash skin thoroughly after handling. May be harmful if inhaled. Causes respiratory tract irritation.  May be harmful if absorbed through skin. 
  • Isopropyl Myristate - compound derived from isopropyl alcohol and myristic acid, it enhances penetration of other ingredients.
  • Other Ingredients - that is just a 'catch all' for what could be silicones, mineral oils, or who knows what....
  • Defoamer - that could be any type of synthetic ingredient