Question Earthority!

“In our looks-fixated, aging-averse society, we hold our personal care products in great esteem. ‘Moisturize away dry skin and wrinkles!’ We dutifully obey that marketing mantra as we apply these creamy concoctions into every crevice. However, now the emphasis on skin vigor is becoming tempered with worry over endocrine health as ingredients in these products are shown to be hormonally active. And its not just moisturizing lotion: cosmetics, fragrances, deodorant and even sun block need closer scrutiny. It can make average consumers feel they are awash in a sea, or at a least bathtub full, of toxic chemicals. The reality is that in any given product, 90% or more of the ingredients are non-toxic. The typical surfactants, emulsifiers, oils and fragrances are generally safe. However, as with many things, the devil is in the details and it’s the small percentage items, some of which don’t need labeling, which are most worrisome. The question is whether there is enough of a chemical dose in every squirt to add up to an endocrine disrupting effect. Emerging evidence suggests that in certain cases, this in fact can occur.” (02/19/07)