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Personal Care Products

Using the Safe Cosmetics Database, I searched up the Crest Multi-Benefit Whitening + Scope toothpaste and the Origins Checks & Balances face wash, which were rated based on relatively fair and limited data respectively. Scoring a 3, it was reassuring to see that the toothpaste had minor ingredient concerns and was not cancerous. But, it did bring some slight concern since it presented as moderately hazardous with concerns for additive exposure sources and organ system toxicity. On the other hand, I was disappointed that my favorite face wash scored a 4 and was shown to be moderately hazardous. It also presented  similar concerns as the toothpaste, but also had ingredient concerns relevant to allergies and immunotoxicity. 

For a product that claimed to use natural ingredients, I expected my face wash to have ingredients that are less toxic or irritating for diverse consumer skin types. My search findings have encouraged a desire to more thoroughly research my other favorite products as to identify which ones may potentially have moderate to high health hazards. Since I’ve used these two personal care items for many years, I likely won’t be making any immediate replacements. However, it'll be a priority to find better face wash alternatives to minimize my exposure to toxic ingredients, but it will also need to be a product that can meet my skin’s needs. On the other hand, I feel confident with my toothpaste of choice, but am curious to find out which other toothpastes have less irritants and additive exposure sources. 

Consumers who use these brands and products regularly have a right to know what kinds of chemicals they are choosing to put on their bodies. The more knowledge individuals have about the risks of using particular personal care products, the more power they have over their health, now and for the future. However, people don’t necessarily take the extra precaution of researching the products they buy because they are unaware that such resources are available, don’t have the means to access such useful and important information, or simply lack the motivation to look beyond the immediate satisfaction and results of using such products. Therefore, it will be very useful for everyone if awareness and access to the Safe Cosmetics Database or other similar systems is improved.

Crest Complete Multi-Benefit Whitening + Scope Toothpaste: EWG rating = 3

Origins Checks & Balances Face Wash: EWG rating = 4
In the video featuring Ken Cook of Environmental Working Group (EWG), Cook presents that women use an average of 12 personal care products each day which involuntarily exposes women to over 160 toxic chemicals. This made me stop and reflect on how many products I use daily and brought to consciousness that I am willingly exposing myself to these hazards. Cook goes on to highlight that an average of 200 toxic chemicals were found in “10 regular Americans” the EWG performed blood tests on and reveals that environmental exposures to industrial wastes and pesticides began in the womb. It's terrifying that during these critical stages of early life, we are exposed to dozens, hundreds, and millions of chemicals that can alter our genetic makeup. He then emphasizes that raising awareness about this silent epidemic is vital to public health. Furthermore, he discusses several relevant cases and actions (law implementation and interdisciplinary collaborations) that protect the people and the environment. 

This video outlined the deeply complex and significant effect of environmental exposures to people’s health and that today’s preventive actions are truly protecting our future days. I enjoyed how Ken Cook delivered this key message and found his presentation very engaging. 

Comments

  1. JudyJudeSeptember 6, 2018 at 7:50 PM

    Nica, I am surprised that the toothpaste scored a 3! Especially since it is a whitening toothpaste. Good for you, no major change needed there if you are happy with the way it cleans your teeth. As to the face wash, a 4 for a product that claims to be natural is shocking. However, I have learned that the products that we think are healthy, in many cases, are not so healthy after all. I applaud you for your honest in saying that you will continue to use the product. I stopped using my face cream because it scored a 7 which is much higher than your product, a 4 does not seem so bad now.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Antonio SorianoSeptember 9, 2018 at 9:49 PM

    Hi Nica, I also stopped and reflected on the possible toxins after watching Ken Cook's video. It was eye-opening to see the hazardous materials we may encounter on a daily basis. It was also refreshing to see what actions and precautions are currently taking place. Some precautions we can take as individuals is analyzing what personal care products we buy and support. How did you respond to learning that your face wash scored a 4 on ewg.com?

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