Chemical In Cosmetics May Cause Birth Defects

Study: Many Cosmetics Don't Label Phthalates

Posted: 2:53 p.m. EDT July 10, 2002, Updated: 9:29 a.m. EDT July 11, 2002

Tests have found harmful chemicals in hair sprays, perfumes, deodorants and other cosmetics.

Advocacy groups including Environmental Working Group, Coming Clean, and Health Care Without Harm released the details Wednesday in a report called "Not Too Pretty."

The groups contracted with a major national laboratory to test 72 name-brand beauty products for the presence of phthalates, a large family of industrial chemicals linked to birth defects in the male reproductive system. Researchers said phthalates also harm the liver, lungs and kidneys.

The lab found phthalates in 52 of the 72 products tested -- or 72 percent. Some of the products included Christian Dior's Poison, Arrid Extra Extra Dry deodorant and Aqua Net Hair Spray. Only one of the products listed phthalates on the label.

According to the report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found surprisingly high levels of these chemicals in urine taken from women of childbearing age. This report focuses on one source of exposure: the cosmetics and beauty products women are using every day.

The advocacy groups say this report is just the tip of the iceberg. This report only tested less than 1 percent of the beauty products sold in drug stores across the country, said Charlotte Brody, executive director of Health Care Without Harm.

"Because of lax FDA labeling rules, we cannot know how many more beauty products contain unlabeled quantities of phthalates," Brody said.

But the Cosmetic Chemical Toiletry and Fragrance Association, which represents manufacturers, said consumers have no reason to worry.

"The phthalates have been studied for decades and all studies show their use in cosmetics is absolutely safe," Dr. Gerald McEwen said.

The groups urge cosmetics companies can stop using phthalates, because there are products without the ingredient that perform as well.

"Chemicals that can damage the development and future fertility of babies don't belong in products marketed to women," said Bryony Schwan, coordinator of the Coming Clean campaign. "Phthalate-free products that perform as well are on the market for virtually every single phthalate-containing product."

-- Anonymous, July 11, 2002

Answers

Cosmetic Caution: Don't Keep Makeup Too Long - Bacteria Grows In Products

Updated: 3:51 p.m. EDT May 8, 2002

HOUSTON -- Every year, women spend $45 billion on cosmetic and skin care products -- all in an attempt to put their best face forward.

But those same products, if you're not careful, can cause serious skin problems or worse.

"I still have the lipstick from when I got married 13 years ago," said Sabrina Kurzman, an actress and model.

Kurzman never thought that aging products could be the source of her skin problems.

"I never attributed it to makeup. I attributed it stress -- the kids, the husband -- anything but the makeup," Kurzman said.

Fungus and mold can grow in products, which can cause serious problems, according to experts.

So when should makeup be thrown out?

Paula Begoun, a cosmetic industry expert, said products used around the eye area have the shortest longevity. Mascara should be thrown out within three months of opening it. Also, you should never pump it or mix it with water since both things increase bacteria, according to Begoun.

Liquid eyeliners and concealers should be kept for no more than six months.

Eye and lip pencils can last up to a year, if sharpened regularly to prevent bacteria build-up.

Begoun said that swabbing some alcohol over the tip could disinfect them.

Lipsticks and lip glosses should be thrown out after a year.

Liquid and cream foundations should be used within three to six months, Begoun said. However, some may last longer.

Powder-based products can last up to two years.

Experts suggest that women keep track of makeup by dating it before it's used.

When in doubt about its age, throw it out. That's the safest way to make sure your beauty products keep you looking beautiful, Begoun said.

-- Anonymous, July 11, 2002