February 26, 2008

How hazardous is your hairspray?

What do Kimora Lee Simmons' "Baby Phat Golden Goddess" perfume, Neutrogena's "Instant Nail Enhancer" 02 Pearl Sheen nail polish and Karl Lagerfeld’s "Lagerfeld Deodorant" stick all have in common?
They all score a big thumbs down when it comes to toxicity.
The Environmental Working Group’s website contains as section called Skin Deep, a fascinating guide to the chemicals, carcinogens and allergens contained in some of the most popular makeup, shampoos, perfumes, children’s skincare products and hairsprays in America. After examining the chemical components contained in each product, the EWG grades them on a scale of 0 - 10, 0 being least hazardous and 10 being most.
I was surprised to see that Neutrogena, a brand I often associate with purity, scored poorly in some categories. I was also disturbed to see a foundation I have bought, Revlon’s Age Defying Makeup, scored a terrifying 10 on the hazard scale. (Strangely enough, I do recall my skin feeling clogged and unhealthy when I used it.)
Mirenesse Stellar Beauty Limited Edition lipstick ranked worst in the lipstick category, containing ingredients linked to cancer, developmental/reproductive toxicity, allergies and more. Yikes!
The best ranking products were by organic and natural cosmetics companies like Larenim and Valana Minerals.
The EWG points out that due to gaping loopholes in federal law, companies can put virtually any ingredient into personal care products. The government does not require pre-market safety tests for any of them.
Which means that now more than ever, it's up to us to educate ourselves.

The EWG's Worst Offenders

Women's fragrance:
Most toxic: Baby Phat Golden Goddess by Kimora Lee Simmons and Kenneth Cole Reaction For Her
Least toxic: Bella Mira products

Nail Polish:
Most toxic: Neutrogena Instant Nail Enhancer 02 Pearl Sheen, Sally Hansen French Manicure Kit Sheerly Mauve
Least toxic: Revlon Liquid Quick Dry

Hair spray:
Most toxic: Michael diCesare Volume Factor Lock In Finishing Spray
Least toxic: got2b products

Deodorant:
Most toxic: BVLGARI Eau Parfumee au the vert deodorant stick and Karl Lagerfeld Lagerfeld Deodorant stick
Least toxic: Crystal Body Deodorant Spray Mist

Foundation:
Most toxic: Revlon Age Defying Makeup and Concealer, Mirenesse Stellar Beauty Limited Edition
Least toxic: Zosimos, Dermablend, Valana Minerals, Larenim

Lipstick:
Most toxic: Mirenesse Stellar Beauty Limited Edition, Revlon Super Lustrous Frost Lipstick
Least toxic: Canary Cosmetics, Miessence, Valana Minerals