Toxic chemicals keep turning up in lipstick.
Previously, I reported on dangerous lead levels in lipstick.
Now, according to research done in Canada, two other chemicals used in lipstick and other personal care products pose a significant threat to human health. The chemicals, known as D4 and D5 siloxanes, have been linked to uterine tumors and reproductive damage in various animals. In addition to being added to lipstick, the siloxanes are found in body lotion, hair care products, baby bottle nipples, cookware and home cleaning products. Because the chemicals persist in the environment and resist degrading, health officials worry they pose long-term risk to people and the planet.
As Canada moves forward to assess actions needed to reduce the use of these toxic chemicals under its Chemical Management Plan program, Environmental Working Group says the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has yet to publish a single study or assessment on D4 and D5 under their parallel program, the High Production Volume (HPV) chemical challenge.
Canada’s findings “underscore the need for real reforms within the EPA’s failed programs to regulate toxins in the U.S.,” said Environmental Working Group VP for Research Jane Houlihan. “Congress and President Obama need to overhaul broken toxics laws, and establish a policy that forces the chemical companies to first prove their products are safe before being used.”
Clearly, a new mindset is needed focusing on preventing hazards like this from occurring. EPA needs to expedite its process on regulating proven toxic chemicals like D4 and D5 siloxanes.
Just as importantly, the Obama Administration needs to adopt a “prevention agenda” to protect human health and the environment from toxic hazards – not just clean up after them.
Thank you for posting the information on this research study. While many of us have become more focused on what we’re putting into our bodies, it’s equally important to research what we’re putting on our bodies. Some of the ingredients in make-up (like lead!) are unbelievable. I stopped using conventional lipstick awhile back and now use brands like Alba and Burt’s Bees which are more natural and organic. There are a bunch of great websites with natural make-up these days, which make finding better options a lot easier than it used to be!
Wow! What an eye opener. With so many new reports emerging about toxic ingredients in cosmetics, it seems that ‘au naturalle’ is the way to go. 😉 Thank you!
ps. I’m loving your Big Green Purse book.:)
Afterglow cosmetics is definitely the answer to this problem. They offer a great selection of mineral lipsticks and lip glosses at really affordable prices. I have been using them for over 5 years now and will never switch to something different.
Body lotion is great providing your skin with anti-oxidants daily through your Dr Baumann Skincare, but for excellent results, Vitamins and minerals in your diet is essential for healthier skin.
Aren’t cosmetics supposed to be checked first? How the hell are they checking it, if now they found that it’s toxic?!
Well, the tests industry does and the tests health professionals and consumers do are different. Consumers also like a lower threshold for exposure than industry does. It’s really important for independent, third parties not affiliated with manufacturers to test product claims and verify safety.
I know there are safe personal care products in the industry. I don’t understand why manufacturers still use toxic chemicals.
http://bit.ly/20427BT
So true. It’s important we all speak up and demand safer products. We can use our consumer clout to make an important statement.