The Make-up Talk

Our education in personal care products is about as lacking as your average sex ed for elementary children: we get most of our information by word of mouth or, worse yet, magazines.

And just like some parents spread the myth that babies are delivered via stork to mysterious cabbage patches, cosmetics companies would have you believe that the chemicals in their products are 100% safe and effective.

Thanks to an astounding lack of information, we never wise up to the fact that maybe, just maybe, companies lie, twist the truth, and practice deception to get us to do the one thing they need to survive in this rough economy--buy their products, of course.

Unfortunately, studies have shown that many chemicals commonly used in popular cosmetic brands are not only toxic but also ineffective. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) keeps track of these chemicals, and which companies are using them, on its website. But just to spread the wealth of information now available on the web, I've compiled a list of some of the worst offenders in the beauty industry. Questions? Check the EWG website for extensive information on each chemical and lists of medical references OR leave me a comment.


1.BHA - A fragrance and antioxidant ingredient used in cosmetics and personal care products, BHA received a 10 on the EWG's hazard rating and earns the dubious distinction of one of the most toxic ingredients. Most unsettling is that the EU banned this fragrance due to its toxicity.

2. Parabens - Often listed as methylparaben, butylparaben, and other variations, parabens have been linked to breast cancers in numerous studies. Aware of consumer concerns, many companies now list their products as "Paraben Free," but make sure you read the label to check for other nasties.

3. Coal Tar - The EU has banned coal tar since 2004--and for good reason. Used to stop itching and control eczema, coal tar is, according to cancer research, a carcinogen to humans. Look for it in shampoos and hair dyes.

4. Anything that has a DEA at the end - Common in all sorts of personal care products, this chemical can be absorbed through the skin and create carcinogenic compounds post-absorption.

5. Formaldehyde - Yep, you got it. This stuff preserves dead bodies. But live ones? This lovely chemical is considered a possible human carcinogen, may trigger asthma, irritates eyes and the upper respiratory tract, can damage DNA, and is banned by the European Union. If you've ever dissected a critter in science, you've probably smelled the stuff. Might explain why they add toxic (but very strong) fragrances to so many products. Something has to combat that odor...

6. Talc - Watch out for this one, ladies. Women from the 1950s powdered their unmentionable parts with this powder-like substance. Today, we know it to be a proven carcinogen linked to ovarian cancer. Chemically, it resembles asbestos. Make sure to let new mommies know that they should check their baby powder for safe ingredients (cornstarch works beautifully), and beware of products that claim to be healthy and organic but contain talc!

7. Petrolatum - Just because I hate the petrochemical industry, I'm listing this particular variety of petrochemical, often added to lipsticks and glosses to make lips shine and facial creams to "soften" the skin. It's also linked to cancer and was banned by the EU.

8. Sodium Laureth/Sodium Laurel Sulfate - I'm gonna wash that man right out of my hair...Wait a second, where did all of those suds come from? Sulfates are the dandies that make products like shampoo and bath gel suds up when you're in the shower. For some reason, Americans equate suds with cleanliness. Unfortunately, sulfates also strip the hair and skin of the protective, moisturizing oils it produces naturally and also allows dangerous chemicals to penetrate more readily and reach the bloodstream. Yikes.

That's all for now, folks. The best way to find out which of your cosmetics are toxic is to research your favorite brands on the Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database. It takes practice, but reading labels is one of the best ways to become an expert in ingredients and an important skill for shopping expeditions.

In the meantime, I'll be posting articles on some safe, green, organic products that I've tested as well as cleansers and moisturizers you can make yourself on a budget!