Safe Body Products
The FDA monitors and regulates cosmetics and personal care products. Most soaps are overseen by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). These products do not need agency testing or approval before going on the market. Imported products have limited oversight.
Phthalates are not the only chemicals of concern in cosmetics. Also found in cosmetics are Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) and potentially carcinogenic chemicals, such as heavy metals (e.g. Lead, Mercury, Arsenic), petroleum products, parabens, solvents, dyes, and formaldehyde precursors to name a few.
Even diapers and menstrual products contain worrisome chemicals. Soaps marketed as “anti-bacterial” are not better than simple soaps and may increase anti-bacterial resistance when antibiotics are needed.
What you can do:
- Check databases for cosmetics safety, including sunscreens and other personal care products
- Avoid polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)-based dental floss
- Avoid antiseptic products, such as anti-bacterial soap and hand sanitizers
- Wash hands in simple soap and water
- Check data base for toxic salon chemicals to avoid
- Ensure ample ventilation if exposed to toxic salon chemicals
