Did you know that cosmetics and personal care products aren’t
tested by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration before they
go on the market? In fact, manufacturers are responsible for
testing their own products for safety. Unfortunately this means
unsafe ingredients may be lurking in your favorite soap, shampoo or
makeup.
The EnvironmentalWorking Group found that 80 percent of the products they tested
were contaminated with one or more substances linked to cancer and
other health concerns. A recent Environmental Working Group study
of 15,000 cosmetics found that 22 percent of them were contaminated
with 1,4-dioxane, which the EPA classifies as a probable human
carcinogen, and a known animal carcinogen.
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics says many of these
chemicals are easily absorbed into the body because they’re applied
directly to your skin. And while the chemicals in any single
product may not be a concern, repeated exposure from a variety of
sources can be detrimental to your health.
The Environmental Working Group has a searchable database,
called Skin Deep, to help consumers choose better,
safer personal care products. Also check out the following sites
for more information:
