In my search to find an appropriate image for this section of my blog I got lucky and came across an image of the Tarte Park Ave Princess Waterproof bronzer IN ITS ORIGINAL PACKAGING. Extra lucky for me, the image shows all the wonderful ingredients! (Below the ALWAYS FORMULATED WITHOUT list, of course). While some of the ingredients were fine, others were listed with concerns when I searched them in EWG's Skin Deep Cosmetic Database. A few examples are listed below. Note that all "organ system toxicity" concerns are non-reproductive.
Dimethicone: Score=3 (Moderate hazard) concern: organ system toxicity
Iron Oxides: [inorganic chemicals] Score= 2 (Low hazard) concerns: enhanced skin absorption, organ system toxicity
Titanium Dioxide: [inorganic compound] Score= 1-3 depending on use (Low-moderate hazard) concerns: possible human carcinogen
Polysorbate-20: Score=3 (Moderate hazard) concerns: organ system toxicity, contamination concerns
Lecithin: One of my sensitivities!! Score=3-4 (Moderate hazard) concern: contamination concerns
Pentylene Glycol: There was limited information available on the cosmetic database, however I did find a source that claims that this synthetic humectant can also be used as a preservative and solvent. Yes, the word synthetic did appear in the previous sentence. Studies have shown that it can be a skin irritant, causing contact dermatitis.
It may be beneficial to look at other online sources for more information on these ingredients as they appear in cosmetics. As always, my best suggestion to everyone is simply to check all ingredients on your cosmetics before purchase.
Below are some links that provide information on USDA certification, fake and real organic/natural brands, and EWG's Skin Deep Cosmetic Database. Sadly, I will admit that while doing my research I found out that my Nature's Gate shampoo is a fa(h)king fraud. Again, I'm no expert! One day I'm telling you all about my "all natural" shampoo and the next day I'm cursing Nature's Gate. We lather, we learn. But I'm thrilled to find out that Dr. Bronner's is a trusted, certified organic brand. I use Dr. B for shower soap.
Organic certification of cosmetics
USDA organic skin care
Badger Balm
A Bunch of Greens- USDA certified cosmetics
The Garden of Beauty- USDA Organic
A list of fakers and non-fakers
USDA Certified Organic Skin Care Companies
Also click the picture below to take a peek at the most harmful chemicals found in cosmetics and skin care products.
"Coming Clean Campaign ." Organic Consumers Association . N.p., n.d. Web. 18 May 2013. <http://www.organicconsumers.org/bodycare/index.cfm>.