I am thrilled to know about the Safe Cosmetics Database from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). I
looked up my facewash and face lotion (both Cetaphil Dermacontrol products) as
well as my deodorant. I was pleasantly surprised to learn my face lotion had a
low score of 1. However, my facewash made for the same line of products scored
a 4. This seems largely linked to fragrance, organ system toxicity
(non-reproductive), and ecotoxicology. This concerns me slightly since I couldn’t
find any more specific data on organ system toxicity, but all the data associated
with those scores was either limited or none. However, overall it seems the
score of 4 is due to the fragrance which does not actually irritate me so I am
not in a rush to change this. I did try to compare it to the Trader Joe’s
facewash I keep in the shower, but this product was not registered.
The other product I was very interested in learning about
was my deodorant. I use Secret’s Invisible Solid, Shower Fresh (2-pack from
Target). I remember reading terrible things about the carcinogenic effects of
deodorant and trying many different brands to avoid these. In the end, I felt none
actually functioned properly as deodorant so I gave in and went back to
generic. This item also scored a 4 on the Safe Cosmetics Database which is
curious to me. Reading the ingredients, I see that TALC is listed as a concern.
The powder chemical can have traces of asbestos in it, but even without these traces
the chemical can still be toxic and carcinogenic. The chemical is prohibited in
Canada which makes me think I should start importing my deodorant since perhaps
their consumer protection laws are stronger. I am grateful to this website
since I now have some shopping to do! I have already started referring my family to check their products against this and plan to continue!
I like your idea of importing deodorant from Canada. My coworkers actually only buy make up in Europe because they have hundreds of chemicals that are banned in beauty products but remain legal here in the US. Deodorant has always been a big concern for me and I have heard that male deodorants are 'safer' but I will need to use this site to check up on other brands!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad to hear your products aren't too hazardous! I too was really curious about my deodorant because I read articles on how the anti-presperient was causing breast cancer. I tried the TOM's deodorant but because of how active I am, it did not do its job. This website is great, definitely will be using it to find new products!
ReplyDeleteGreat job!