Arguments In Cosmetics

Some ingredients have been shown to have dangerous short term and long term effects on the body, but their use is still not prohibited by the FDA. Formaldehyde was classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as “a probable human carcinogen, an agent for which there is sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity” and some preservatives frequently used in cosmetics are known to release formaldehyde into the body (Overall). Parabens are another family of chemicals often used as preservatives in cosmetics that mimic estrogen and have been linked to endocrine disruption (Boberg). The vague “fragrance” is commonly found on ingredient lists for cosmetics, and the term is used to signify a mix of chemicals that do not have to be disclosed because they’re …show more content…
Various conflicting studies of different sizes, done by scientists with different levels of experience have caused an array of misinformation and controversy amongst scientists and experts alike. In an interview with NPR, author and former teacher at Harvard School of Public Health, David Ropeik said "The endocrine disruption issue has evoked some of the most visceral and ugly attacks among scientists of any scientific issue recently" (Hamilton). Dermatologist Dr. Doris Day strongly opposes the possibility of cosmetic ingredients being harmful, she said in an interview with Fox News “the groups that say organic is better and they point to the dangers of the other products, it’s often based on studies that weren 't published or are taking things out of context” (Carlton). Some argue that the concentration of any ingredient in cosmetics is too low to be harmful. Paula Begoun, founder of Paula’s Choice Skincare, claims that the chemicals in cosmetics, “especially in the small amounts used in personal-care products, do not pose a significant health risk”