For baby it could really be poison
Toxic chemicals linked to birth defects are being found at alarming levels in women of childbearing age.
And according to new laboratory tests (see below), these unsafe chemicals are being added to popular cosmetics and beauty aids, from Poison perfume to Arrid Extra Extra Dry deodorant.
Manufacturers use these chemicals, known as phthalates (tha-lates), to add flexibility and help dissolve other ingredients.
They’re also used in industrial adhesives, and in medical and consumer goods made with polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC). But phthalates have been shown to damage the lungs, liver and kidneys, and to harm the developing testes of offspring. These results come from animal tests which, according to government scientists, are relevant to predicting health impacts in humans.
Despite this, the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t regulate phthalates in cosmetics. In most cases, phthalates aren’t even listed on the label.
The FDA must act now. All cosmetics – as well as food-related and medical products containing phthalates – must be labeled. And manufacturers should publicly pledge to voluntarily remove phthalates as quickly as possible.
Phthalate-free alternatives are available in every product category. And some companies have already announced phase-out policies.
In the meantime, we believe that every consumer – indeed, anyone who cares about the health of future generations – should demand action from companies and the FDA. Learn more at www.NotTooPretty.org.
After all, Eternity is a long time.
What Are YouWearing?
Off-the-shelf samples of hair products, body lotions, deodorants and fragrances, including those listed below, were analyzed by an independent testing lab for the presence of phthalates. Four were found: BBP, DBP, DEP and DEHP. The phthalate content of listed nail polishes comes from manufacturers’ information and ingredients listings on labels. Products listed below as “phthalate free” contained no detectable trace of the four compounds. Products listed as “contain phthalates” contained one of the four, while those noted with an asterisk contained more than one.
Total phthalate exposure comes from repeated small individual doses from cosmetics and a wide range of products containing PVC plastics, including shower curtains and window shades; some plastic food packaging; and medical devices such as IV fluid and blood bags. Other sources of phthalate exposure include paints, pesticides and printing inks.
HAIR PRODUCTS Containing Phthalates: Aqua Net Professional, Hair Spray*, LA Looks Styling Gel: Extra, Super Hold, Suave Naturals Ocean Breeze Extra, Control Spray Gel, TRESemme European, Freeze-Hold Hair Spray*, VO5 Crystal Clear 14 Hour Hold
DEODORANTS Containing Phthalates: Arrid Extra Extra Dry Ultra Clear Ultra, Fresh Spray*, Ban Delicate Powder Roll-On, Degree Original Solid, Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant, Secret Sheer Dry Regular*, Sure Clear Dry Anti-Perspirant & Deodorant
BODY LOTIONS Contain Phthalates: Jergens Skincare Original Scent Lotion, Nivea Cr´eme,
FRAGRANCES Contain Phthalates: Calgon Hawaiian Ginger. Body Mist, Charlie Cologne Spray, Elizabeth Taylor White Diamonds, Escape by Calvin Klein, Eternity by Calvin Klein, Fire & Ice*, Freedom, Lancome Paris Tresor, Oscar*, Poison by Christian Dior*, The Healing Garden Pure Joy, Body Treatment*, Wind Song Perfume by Prince Matchabelli
NAIL POLISHES Contain Phthalates: Christian Dior Nail Enamel, Cover Girl Nail Slicks, Express Finish, Nutra Nail, OPI, Sally Hansen, Sally Hansen Hard as Nails, Wet’n’Wild
*Contain multiple phthalates
Visit www.NotTooPretty.org to learn more about the dangers of phthalates and to review the full cosmetics testing results in detail.
You may download a free copy of our new report: Not Too Pretty: Phthalates, Beauty Products and the FDA.
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