Hidden Chemicals: What’s Really In Your Products

Are Your Cosmetics Safe?

Photos By Natasha Gerschon

Make-up, Brodine, Judy Inc

After a simple morning routine that involves a shower, hair care, skin care, and light make up, you may have been exposed to over 300 different chemicals. The exposure to and accumulation of these chemicals in your body, over time, may have some serious health consequences. From endocrine disruptors to carcinogens, the skincare industry is full of toxins.

Balancing Reality With Toxic Concerns

International health standards allow for a certain percentage of chemical ingredients to be used in cosmetics if the quantity used isn’t directly harmful.

However, there is growing skepticism that many companies are still placing profits before people and are knowingly using ingredients that are going to create or exacerbate health risks. Organizations like EWG are working hard at motivating cosmetic companies to verify their ingredients so consumers are empowered.

Personal care and beauty products are some of the least regulated industries in the North America. According to the Campaign for Safer Cosmetics, current federal laws regulating cosmetic safety haven’t been updated in over 80 years. This leaves the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the agency responsible for regulating cosmetics and personal care products. Many would argue they have little power to perform even the most basic functions to ensure the safety of an estimated $84 billion cosmetic industry.

We’ve put together a quick list of the worst offenders, with links so that you can read up about them. When you are reading labels, keep an eye out for these terms and avoid!