Cosmetics

What is the question?

Cosmetics contain a variety of chemical additives to make them look or smell or work better. As consumers have become more aware of the potential dangers of certain chemicals, they have started to question whether these ingredients need to be in there in the first place. And as it turns out, many of these additives don't just sit on the surface but they are absorbed by the scalp and skin. This has exacerbated public concern: if the chemicals in cosmetics get into the bloodstream, then what are they doing to our bodies?

What is the data?

There are two chemicals that share the spotlight in this debate: phthalates and parabens. Phthalates are plasticizers--they add flexibility to products so that hairspray can hold your locks in place without creating too much stiffness and shampoos can maintain their perfumy smell. Therefore, phthalates are important in the functionality of many cosmetics. But there is evidence that once inside our bodies, some phthalates can act as endocrine disruptors: they have the ability to act like hormones. Parabens are preservatives that make your cosmetics last longer. They keep bacteria and fugi away, giving makeup and shaving cream longer shelf lives. The biggest concern about parabens is that have been associated with cancer in some studies, though many question these results.

What is the bottom line?

We know that certain cosmetic additives seep into the body; what is less clear is what they do once in there. We also know that when asked, most consumers would rather use cosmetics without the additives, even if it means that their shampoo wouldn't last as long on the shelf or their hairspray wouldn't work as well. Unfortunately, the labeling requirements make it easy for manufacturers to include these chemicals without disclosing them on the label.

What's in my house?

It can be confusing to understand what cosmetics do once inside your body--and to determine whether or not it is important to avoid them. I'll tell you what I chose for my children and myself in chapter 17 of Dangerous or Safe?. Buy it on Amazon!

The book

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There is little doubt that children today face unprecedented dangers. With conflicting reports in the media and rumors on the playground, parents simply lack the information needed to separate fact from the hype, and as a result, their fears are at a fever pitch.

So what do parents actually need to worry about? In Dangerous or Safe? pediatrician and mom Dr. Cara Natterson uses her medical expertise, the latest scientific research and her own perspective as a mom of two to provide parents with definitive answers.

Tackling twenty-five hot-button issues, Dr. Natterson outlines why each subject is rumored to pose a threat, explains what experts have said about it, and presents her very own "Bottom Line" so parents can make an informed decision on each topic. An indispensable resource, this relatable guide gives moms and dads clear instructions on what to avoid, and which so-called poisons are completely safe.

"A clear, succinct, scientific explanation of what is safe and what is not safe for your child. Every parent, and every child, could benefit from it." — Deepak Chopra, author of Reinventing the Body, Resurrecting the Soul