How safe are our cosmetics? (video) CNN December 12th, 2012 CNN's Holly Firfer takes a look at the cosmetics we use and whether their ingredients are safe.

Campaign for Safe Cosmetics reports on 'who's naughty and who’s nice' by Michelle Yeomans, Cosmetics Design December 12th, 2012 The lobby group has compiled a report based on its’ ranking of retailers that it believes to be doing well, and not so well in terms of their commitment to cosmetics safety.

Could Your Shampoo or Body Lotion be Harmful to Your Health? by Kate McPherson, KTVA December 11th, 2012 How closely do you read the back of your lotion or sunscreen bottles? A report from the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics says many big retailers are stocking cosmetics and other personal care items without an adequate screening policy.

Alaska toxins group issues warning to holiday shoppers Alaska Dispatch December 11th, 2012 With Christmas right the corner and holiday shopping on everyone's mind, a local environmental health group wants consumers to be aware of toxins in personal-care products.

Consumer group ranks retailers WPXI-TV, Pittsburgh December 11th, 2012 A consumer group says many everyday products contain harmful chemicals that can cause cancer, infertility or birth defects, and the Food and Drug Administration doesn’t have the authority to regulate them. Consumer investigator Robin Taylor learned safety advocates want retailers to be the gatekeepers.

Cosmetics Safety: Which Retailers are Naughty and Which are Nice? by Lori Popkewitz Alper, Groovy Green Livin' December 11th, 2012 Want to know which retailers are naughty and which are nice when it comes to their commitment to cosmetics safety? Who is leading the market trend toward safer products and who’s lagging behind?

Report Ranks Retailers on Safe Cosmetics by Amy Westervelt, Forbes December 11th, 2012 After working with the industry for years to encourage the manufacture of non-toxic personal care products, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics is now targeting retailers, encouraging them to make more space on shelves for the growing inventory of safe cosmetics.

Campaign for Safe Cosmetics ranks retailers' cosmetics safety policies by Jessica Rubino, New Hope 360 December 11th, 2012 Known for its education and advocacy in the personal care industry, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics turned its attention to the cosmetics policies and practices of retailers in its latest report, Retailer Therapy, released today.

The best and worst places to buy safe cosmetics by Jessica Rubino, Delicious Living Blog December 11th, 2012 With very weak FDA regulations on cosmetic ingredients in place, our retailers have an important responsibility to be the “gatekeepers,” according to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. This means screening products for ingredients, offering safe alternatives and—perhaps most importantly—making all of their practices (the good and the bad) publicly available.

Does Lipstick Contain Lead? ‘GMA’ Tests Lipsticks and Lip Glosses by Elisabeth Leamy and Vanessa Weber, ABC News December 3rd, 2012 But have you ever thought about what’s in lipstick? “Good Morning America” wanted to know if lipstick contains lead, and whether it would be a problem if it did, so we commissioned our own tests.

Why Campaign for Safe Cosmetics? by mizjo, HubPages November 27th, 2012 Learning from Kristi and many others like her, ex-victims of the toxic world created by the cosmetics companies, we can reduce the harm caused to us and to our precious earth.

The Manscape: The Dirt on Toxic Ingredients in Men’s Body Care Products Environmental Defence November 16th, 2012 Men are using more personal care products than ever before. But what’s actually in them?

Will this election create a safer cosmetics industry? by Jessica Rubino, New Hope 360 November 6th, 2012 Okay, maybe cosmetics safety hasn't been top on either candidates’ agenda, but the fiery legislative battle emerging from the natural cosmetics industry rages on, and this election will likely have a significant impact.

Seven Tricks to Green Halloween by Michele Berger, Forbes October 30th, 2012 This year, why not swap one of them for something a little more eco-friendly, say making your own decorations or mixing up some homemade face paint?

Ten beauty health hazards Gulf News October 30th, 2012 We all like to look our best, but did you know your beauty routine could be bad for you? From salon treatments to everyday beauty procedures, check out how looking good can be bad for you

Clamping down on beauty product claims by Alene Dawson, LA Times October 28th, 2012 Regulatory agencies such as the FDA and FTC and consumer websites are calling out companies for unsupported claims and doctored photos. Skepticism is in order.

Chemical link to early menopause by Martin Johnston, The New Zealand Herald October 26th, 2012 Pthalates have been linked to early menopause in women.

Avon Claims to Fight Breast Cancer, But Are Its Products Safe? by Lori Zimmer, Ecouterre October 19th, 2012 As one of the more visible organizers of breast-cancer rallies across the United States, Avon talks a good game about “crusading” against the deadly disease, particularly when October rolls around. Yet the beauty firm has far to go before it walks the walk, according to the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.

Top 5 Green Halloween Costume Tips by Claire Moshenberg, MomsRising blog October 12th, 2012 Try one of these tips to make your Halloween a little greener.

50 Shades of Green: Shampoo for Breakfast? by Lindsay Hoganson, 303 Magazine October 10th, 2012 Wearing makeup is like eating it… sorta, bear with me.

J&J’s Aveeno Organic Harvest baby care product loses USDA NOP certification by Simon Pitman, Cosmetics Design October 10th, 2012 The USDA has confirmed that one of the products in the Johnson & Johnson’s Aveeno Baby Organic Harvest has lost NOP certification status on account of its formulation containing an unapproved ingredient.

Help the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics Get More Companies to Follow in J&J’s Footsteps by Britta Aragon , Cinco Vidas blog October 8th, 2012 The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, with the help of the Breast Cancer Fund, is trying to capitalize on the momentum J&J started by getting other companies to make a similar pledge. Here are the details and how you can help!

The Cancer Lobby by Nicholas D. Kristof, The New York Times October 6th, 2012 Who knew that carcinogens had their own lobby in Washington?

Skin bleaching creams linked to diabetes by  Sola Okenla, RN, BSN, The Grio October 4th, 2012 Use of skin bleaching creams may increase the risk of developing diabetes and other diseases, according to a study in Canadian Family Physician.

Unilever in court for misleading claims on its formaldehyde product line by Michelle Yeomans, Cosmetics Design October 1st, 2012 A Texas-based firm has filed a complaint against the global giant with regards to alleged false, deceptive and misleading claims in connection with its Suave Professionals Keratin Infusion 30 Day Smoothing Kit.

Denmark bans four phthalates, despite EU decision by Michelle Yeomans, Cosmetics Design August 29th, 2012 The Danish government has gone ahead and banned four industrial chemicals linked to disrupting the human endocrine system, despite the European Union's ruling to phase out phthalates.

Triclosan in antibacterial soaps studied by Kathryn Roethel, San Francisco Chronicle August 21st, 2012 There's insufficient evidence that antibacterial soaps are any better than plain soap and water. But what's especially troubling is that an antibacterial agent found in many of those soaps may have harmful health effects, several studies have shown.

A Guide to the Most Safe, Eco-Friendly Shampoos for All Hair Types by Mia Davis, EcoSalon.com August 20th, 2012 Your brief guide for safe and eco-friendly shampoos.

J&J to remove harmful chemicals from adult products by 2015 Reuters August 16th, 2012 Johnson & Johnson announced plans to eliminate several harmful chemicals like formaldehyde from its line of consumer products meant for adults by the end of 2015, the New York Times reported on Wednesday.

J&J First to Promise Toxin-Free Products by Daniel J. DeNoon, WebMD August 15th, 2012 Johnson & Johnson, maker of brands including Aveeno, Neutrogena, and Johnson's Baby Shampoo, says it will remove controversial chemicals from all its baby and adult products by 2015.

Johnson & Johnson Plans To Reformulate Products CBS Local August 15th, 2012 As part of the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a coalition of advocacy groups are urging manufacturers to remove the worrisome chemicals.In response to this pressure, Johnson & Johnson is going to reformulate its products over the next three years.

J&J Removing Harsh Chemicals From Products by 2015 The Associated Press August 15th, 2012 Johnson & Johnson plans to remove trace amounts of potentially cancer-causing and other dangerous chemicals from nearly all its adult toiletries and cosmetic products worldwide within 3 1/2 years.

Salon Week of Action in D.C. Tousled July 31st, 2012 Last week I had the honor of accompanying the National Healthy Nail and Beauty Salon Alliance and the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics to Washington, D.C. where we lobbied to pass the Safe Cosmetics Act in an attempt to protect salon workers and consumers from toxic chemicals.

How Safe Are Your Cosmetics? by Rachel Pomerance, US News July 31st, 2012 Examining the make up of our makeup

Salon workers rally on Hill for ban on Brazilian Blowout by Jeremy P. Jacobs, E&E News July 26th, 2012 More than a dozen salon workers from across the country descended on Washington, D.C., yesterday calling on lawmakers and regulators to ban the controversial hair straightening product Brazilian Blowout.

Sunscreen scandal: Ingredient used in major brands falsely marketed as non-nano Friends of the Earth July 24th, 2012 Finding raises health concerns for consumers in Australia and the U.S., sparks formal complaint

Chemicals in personal care products may increase risk of diabetes in women Brigham and Women's Hospital July 13th, 2012 Brigham and Women's Hospital study is the first to examine an association between phthalates and diabetes in a large population of American women

Green Good Housekeeping Seal: Criteria for Cleaning and Beauty Products Good Housekeeping July 10th, 2012 For the Beauty and Cleaning product categories, a product that earns the Green Good Housekeeping Seal cannot contain certain harmful ingredients or any ozone-depleting compounds (ODCs) above 0.001%, produce volatile organic compounds (VOCs) above a certain threshold, or have been tested on animals within the last five years (unless required by government regulation).

EC deems formaldehyde equivalent unsafe for use in hair straighteners by Andrew McDougall, Cosmetics Design July 10th, 2012 The European Commission believes the use of methylene glycol/formaldehyde at 0.2 per cent formaldehyde equivalent is not considered safe in hair straighteners following a meeting held on the subject in June.

If looks could kill CBS42 June 30th, 2012 A federal analysis of 400 popular shades of lipstick showed each contained trace amounts of lead. Still, the amount of lead found in 380 of the products tested was greater than the maximum 0.1 parts per million (ppm) allowed in candy bars.

Chuck Norris takes on toxic suds in baby shampoo by Chuck Norris, WND June 30th, 2012 Discovers America's trust in 'no more tears' may be unfounded

Discount Retail Chains Importing PVC Packaging in Violation of State Laws Toxics in Packaging Clearinghouse June 29th, 2012 For one brand of personal care products, eleven PVC packages were tested, including three different products purchased in 7 states over several months, and all failed for excessive cadmium.

How to avoid chemicals in common baby products by Julie Revelant, Fox June 27th, 2012 Your baby smells even more beautiful after her bath, but as you wash her hair, lather her up with soap, and then slather on lotion, you could actually be exposing her to toxic chemicals.

Phthalate, Environmental Chemical Is Linked to Higher Rates of Childhood Obesity ScienceDaily June 26th, 2012 Obese children show greater exposure than nonobese children to a phthalate, a chemical used to soften plastics in some children's toys and many household products, according to a new study, which found that the obesity risk increases according to the level of the chemical found in the bloodstream.

Ethnic cosmetics market is doing well despite recession, says market researcher by Michelle Yeoman, Cosmetics Design June 25th, 2012 According to a recent report by US market researcher, Packaged Facts, the market for cosmetic products aimed at consumers of ethnic origin is fast growing as figures reveal it rose to $3 billion in 2011.

Antibacterials in Personal-Care Products Linked to Allergy Risk in Children Johns Hopkins Children's Center June 18th, 2012 Exposure to common antibacterial chemicals and preservatives found in soap, toothpaste, mouthwash and other personal-care products may make children more prone to a wide range of food and environmental allergies, according to new research from Johns Hopkins Children’s Center.

One Down, The Rest Of My (Long) Life To Go by Alejandra Owens, AARP Blog June 15th, 2012 One year ago this month, I heard the words that turned my world upside down. “You have breast cancer.”

Spray Tan Risks: Dihydroxyacetone Chemical Could Damage DNA, ABC News Finds Huffington Post June 13th, 2012 A chemical in spray tan could possibly alter and damage DNA, according to an investigation by ABC News.

Laying down the law on nanotechnology by Steven Vaughan, The Guardian June 11th, 2012 Regulating nanotechnology is fraught with difficulties. Current environmental law simply doesn't apply on the nano-scale

Markey to FDA: Stop Use of Toxic Chemical in Children’s Shampoo Congressman Ed Markey May 31st, 2012 Congressman Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) called on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to halt the use of the insecticide lindane in pharmaceutical treatments for head lice in children.

Black Women’s Transitions to Natural Hair by Zina Saro-Wiwa, The New York Times May 31st, 2012 A video on black women's decision to embrace their naturally kinky hair, rather than use chemical straighteners.

Industry Front-Group trying to look like Campaign for Safe Cosmetics by Danika Carter, Greenwala May 31st, 2012 The saying goes, "Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery." If that's true, then the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics must be feeling very flattered these days.

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics – Empowering Consumers to Make Healthy Choices by Claudia Mosby, North State Parent May 29th, 2012 Last March celebrity tabloids were abuzz when toddler Vivienne Jolie-Pitt was spotted wearing lipstick in public. Observers were decidedly focused on the appropriateness of the 3-year-old’s “dress up” demeanor. Noticeably absent were comments about the health risks of exposing a child so young to potential lead contaminants contained in the lipstick.

Chemical In Personal Care Products May Contribute To Childhood Obesity Mount Sinai Faculty Practice Associates May 25th, 2012 Researchers from the Children's Environmental Health Center at The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York have found an association between exposure to the chemical group known as phthalates and obesity in young children – including increased body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference.

If You Knew the Danger, Would You Buy it? by Indie Lee, The Huffington Post May 18th, 2012 What surprises me is that many consumers pay so much attention to the ingredients that go into their food but so little attention to what goes on their skin, their largest organ.

First-of-kind data find toxic chemical widespread in Canadian adults Environmental Defence May 16th, 2012 The first data on levels of the chemical triclosan were released today to reveal widespread body pollution in Canadian adults. Seven of eight people tested had the antibacterial chemical in their bodies—with levels higher than those toxic to fish and algae.

FDA warns of skin creams, lotions tainted with mercury by Michael Finney, ABC 7 May 16th, 2012 Concern about the safety of cosmetics and the amount of chemicals in them is growing in Congress. This follows a warning by the Food & Drug Administration about dangerous levels of mercury found in some anti-aging skin lightening creams, lotions and soaps from foreign countries.

Sunscreen Ingredient May Be Linked to Endometriosis Science Daily May 9th, 2012 Scientists are reporting a possible link between the use of sunscreen containing a certain ingredient that mimics the effects of the female sex hormone estrogen and an increased risk of being diagnosed with endometriosis, a painful condition in which uterine tissue grows outside the uterus.

This Mother’s Day, Clean Up the Toxic Cosmetics Aisle by Lisa Archer, Healthy Child Healthy World blog May 9th, 2012 Since I lost my mother to breast cancer at the age of 18, I have usually spent Mother’s Day outdoors in one of her favorite spots, reflecting on what an amazing human being she was, and creating intentions for the coming year around how to live my life in a way that would make her proud.

Sustained pressure by non-profits forces change in FDA nanotech policy Friends of the Earth May 3rd, 2012 Several leading non-profits working on nanotechnology oversight issued a statement responding to recent steps taken by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that represent marginal progress toward regulation of products made with this new technology.

What's in your makeup? Burden of keeping cosmetics safe left up to manufacturers by Robin Erb, Detroit Free Press April 29th, 2012 Slather them on your face, rub them into your pores, take a bath in them -- they are the chemicals and minerals and nanoparticles that make up the makeup we use to try to look our best, protect ourselves from the sun and even turn back the aging process.

Can Heavy Metal in Foods, Cosmetics Spur Breast Cancer Spread? by Denise Mann, HealthDay April 23rd, 2012 Preliminary study suggests danger from prolonged exposure to cadmium

Ask Umbra: What’s the deal with lead in lipstick? by Ask Umbra, Grist April 16th, 2012 I just read an article about the quantity of lead in lipsticks. The obvious question is: Why? We took the lead out of gas and paint, and put it in lipstick. I love my lipstick, but I’m starting to wonder if I should.

Toxins Found in "Toxin-Free" Nail Polish: Another Reason Beauty Regulation Needs a Makeover by Virginia Sole-Smith, Slate April 13th, 2012 Back in 2006, the nascent eco-health movement scored what seemed like a major victory: OPI, Essie and several other brands of nail polish agreed to remove a "toxic trio" of chemicals from their products

Study finds hazardous chemicals in some nail polish by Erin Allday, San Francisco Chronicle April 11th, 2012 Nail polishes that claim to be free of harsh chemicals linked to cancer, birth defects and fertility problems may contain the hazardous ingredients anyway, according to a state study released Tuesday.

Even Nail Polishes Labeled "Natural" May Not Be by Dan Shapley, The Daily Green April 11th, 2012 A study finds toxic substances in many nail polishes that claim to be free of harmful ingredients.

QR code aids ingredient disclosure Personal Care Magazine April 10th, 2012 Floratech announces an innovative web-based service which provides full ingredient disclosure via a QR (Quick Response) code printed on the product label. Scanning the code leads to a rich menu of useful information about the raw material, in essence providing full product disclosure from the label.

California finds dangerous chemicals in nail polishes advertised as nontoxic by Associated Press, The Washington Post April 10th, 2012 Some nail polishes commonly found in California salons and advertised as free of a so-called “toxic trio” of chemicals actually have high levels of agents linked to birth defects, state chemical regulators said Tuesday.

Industry research finds formaldehyde exposure not a problem for consumers in cosmetics by Michelle Yeomans, Cosmetics Design April 5th, 2012

The Hidden Risks of Using Lipstick AOL Video April 5th, 2012 The Doctors reveal the hidden dangers of lipstick, and how to stay safe.

Early Puberty in Girls – Is There a Connection to Plastics? by Mike Schade, Center for Health, Environment, and Justice April 2nd, 2012 Yesterday, the NY Times Magazine ran a fascinating yet disturbing story about a growing trend – young girls going through puberty, way before their time. In the story, the Times explores how early puberty is effecting girls and their families across the country, and what parents, doctors and scientists are doing to address this troubling issue.

Dangerous Moment: Industry plots to keep products toxic by Lisa Archer, Not Just A Pretty Face March 30th, 2012 “I have loved every minute of my career as a stylist until Brazilian Blowout completely changed my life. Our laws are obviously broken. We are pleading for you to help protect our health and our livelihood.” – Jennifer Arce, written testimony to Energy and Commerce Committee’s March 27 hearing on cosmetics safety.

Do you want this guy writing the rules for cosmetics safety? by Stacy Malkan, Not Just a Pretty Face March 30th, 2012 Peter Barton Hutt of Covington and Burling, LLP, representing the biggest beauty corporations, testified before Congress this week that his clients’ products are perfectly safe and there’s no need to worry about silly little things like carcinogens in baby shampoo (we’re paraphrasing here).

As FDA Rejects BPA Ban, Congress Looks Set To Punt On Chemical Reform by Amy Westervelt, Forbes March 30th, 2012 It’s quite the week for chemicals regulation. The FDA is set to rule on whether to ban the use of bisphenol-A (BPA) in food packaging today (check back here for an update when the ruling comes through), and the House began hearings on overhauling the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetics Act earlier this week that seemed heavily weighted toward supporting industry over regulation.

A Study of Boston Nail Salons by Meda Kisivuli, The Mayor's Health Line Blog March 30th, 2012 A recent study on the Indoor Air Quality of Boston Nail Salons conducted by Brandeis University students from the Environmental Health and Justice Program revealed that a high percentage of toxic chemicals and fine particles are found in nail salon air.

Puberty Before Age 10: A New ‘Normal’? by Elizabeth Weil, New York Times Magazine March 30th, 2012 One day last year when her daughter, Ainsley, was 9, Tracee Sioux pulled her out of her elementary school in Fort Collins, Colo., and drove her an hour south, to Longmont, in hopes of finding a satisfying reason that Ainsley began growing pubic hair at age 6.

Lawmakers Want FDA to Regulate Cosmetics by Janie Lorber, Roll Call March 29th, 2012 There’s formaldehyde in your Brazilian Blowout, lead in your Grecian Formula hair dye and who knows what in your perfume. Certainly not the government.

Starting Early, and Young by Shivani Vora, New York Times March 28th, 2012 DR. AMI SHAH NAGARAJAN, 38, a specialist in integrative medicine who lives in Manhattan, estimates that she spends $150 a month on Mustela and California Baby products for her 3-year-old twins. “I spend more on my kids than I do for myself,” she said. “It’s worth it to me to get something pure for them.”

At trailblazing hearing on cosmetics, congressmen bounce ideas off FDA by Gabriel Nelson, E&E News March 28th, 2012 It's rare for businesses to ask Washington to hit them with new regulations, but that's exactly what the members of the Personal Care Products Council did yesterday.

Common toothpaste additive triclosan to be deemed toxic to environment by Sarah Schmidt, Edmonton Journal March 27th, 2012 The federal government is set to declare a bacteria killer found in many toothpastes, mouthwashes and anti-bacterial soaps as toxic to the environment, a move which could see the use of the chemical curtailed sharply, Postmedia News has learned.

Are 'brighteners' bottling the idea of fair beauty? by Vanessa Greco, CTV News March 25th, 2012 Boutique shelves have long been stocked with the promise of bolder lashes, fuller lips, clearer skin and countless other products branded with aspirational adjectives.

The 3 main sources of chemicals in your home by Rodale News, Mother Nature Network March 22nd, 2012 Ever wonder what's exposing you to the highest levels of chemicals? A new study hopes to give you an answer.

FDA carries out asbestos tests in cosmetic talc after concerns are raised by Michelle Yeomans, Cosmetics Design March 21st, 2012 The US Food and Drug Administration has announced it recently carried out tests on certain cosmetic products containing talc after general concerns about the possible presence of asbestos were raised.

Author shares the dangers of lipsticks, face creams and Brazilian Blowouts by Shandra Martinez, M Live March 20th, 2012 Spend a few minutes listening to Stacy Malkan, and you’re likely to toss your lipstick and deodorant in the trash, along with a lot of the other beauty products fighting for space in your bathroom cabinets.

Hair Salons Still Putting Workers' Health At Risk with Brazilian Blowout by Virginia Sole-Smith, The Investigative Fund March 20th, 2012 Even though public health officials have issued such warnings, though salon workers and consumers have reported health consequences, and the courts have demanded more than $5 million in fines, Brazilian Blowout remains in salons and on the head of many a beauty consumer, because no government agency, including the FDA, has the authority to issue a recall.

Styling Practices Can Lead to Serious Hair and Scalp Diseases for African Americans NewsWise March 19th, 2012 Styling practices can lead to serious hair and scalp diseases for some African Americans, says Henry Ford Hospital dermatologist Diane Jackson-Richards, M.D.

FDA to hold public cosmetic regulation cooperation meeting by Michelle Yeomans, Cosmetics Design March 19th, 2012 The Food and Drug Administration has announced it will hold a public meeting to discuss the international cooperation on cosmetic regulations before its upcoming committee meeting in Rockville, Maryland in July.

The secret ingredient for better, safer beauty products by Jessica Rubino, New Hope 360 March 16th, 2012 New European research shows promise for organic agricultural waste as a long-term, sustainable solution to synthetic surfactants used in cleaning and personal care products.

“Little Changes” {review and giveaway} Captain Fussybuckets blog March 16th, 2012 Let me start by saying this is a book review. WAIT! STOP!! Keep reading! If you have never read a single post I've ever written, or you're not big into reading (like me), let this be one post to read. Bookmark it and come back. It's that important!

Is It Safe to Play Yet? by Michael Tortorello, New York Times March 14th, 2012 Laura MacCleery was four months pregnant when she parked herself on the couch and started an inventory of the chemicals in her Alexandria, Va., town house.

Get the Lead Out (of Lipstick) by Mia Davis, Crazy Sexy Life March 14th, 2012 A $25 tube of department store lipstick should be safe, right? You might assume it is safer than $2 drugstore brand. Not necessarily...

Perms Linked to Uterine Fibroid Tumors and Early Puberty by Brande Victorian, Madame Noire March 9th, 2012 A new study in the American Journal of Epidemiology definitely adds a point to the #TeamNatural tally with a published paper from researchers at Boston University linking hair relaxers to uterine fibroid tumors in women and early puberty in young girls.

Study Highlights Hidden Dangers In Everyday Products -- Even The "Green" Ones by Amy Westervelt, Forbes March 8th, 2012 A first-of-its-kind, peer-reviewed study published in Environmental Health Perspectives today reveals an alarming number of unlabeled chemicals of concern in commonly used household and personal care products.

Mercury found in lotions and cosmetics, says FDA; products are often sold in ethnic neighborhoods and online by Lindsay Goldwert, New York Daily News March 7th, 2012 Women are being warned to stay away from beauty products that contain a toxic ingredient — mercury.

Skin products tainted with mercury CNN Health March 6th, 2012 The Food and Drug Administration is cautioning consumers that skin creams, beauty and antiseptic soaps and lotions contaminated with mercury have been found in at least 7 states.

Maker of a Hair-Straightening Product Settles Lawsuit by Andrew Martin, New York Times March 5th, 2012 The manufacturer of the popular hair-straightening product Brazilian Blowout, the subject of government inquiries and health complaints, said on Monday that it had agreed to settle a class-action lawsuit for about $4.5 million.

Cosmetic chemical hinders brain development in tadpoles Brown University March 1st, 2012 A new study finds that low concentrations of a chemical found in cosmetics has subtle but measurable negative effects on the neural development of tadpoles.

Brazilian Blowout Consumer Alert ABC News - WCVB 5 March 1st, 2012 Do salons know "Brazilian Blowouts" contain a form of formaldehyde? Good Morning America used a hidden camera to find out.

Lead in lipstick: Are natural cosmetic brands at risk? by Jessica Rubino, New Hope 360 February 29th, 2012 A 2007 study on lead in lipstick revealed a dirty little secret about cosmetics, and a recently released U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) follow up proves that the industry has yet to clean up heavy metal contamination. Lead still taints hundreds of lipsticks—including natural ones. But who’s to blame?

It’s All in the Kiss: The Tricky Love Affair of Lead and Lipstick by Kelly Hamilton, Green Answers February 24th, 2012 A series of recent news articles has been painting the cosmetics industry in a less than appealing light, raising an alarm with consumer protection and rights groups who are now asking that the United States’ Food and Drug Administration (FDA) set limits on how much lead can be found in cosmetics.

Tester to FDA: Protect women from lipstick lead Senator Jon Tester's Office February 23rd, 2012 Senator Jon Tester is raising concerns about the rising levels of lead in lipstick, and wants the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ramp up efforts to protect women and children from lead exposure.

J&J CEO steps down by Andrew McDougall, Cosmetics Design February 22nd, 2012 Johnson & Johnson CEO Bill Weldon has announced his retirement and will be succeeded by Alex Gorsky at a time of mixed fortunes for the company.

Heavy Metals Found in Many Cosmetics: Not Listed on Labels by Sarah B. Weir, Yahoo! News February 22nd, 2012 In light of recent news that the FDA found lead in 400 brands of lipstick, Yahoo! Shine took a look at other products containing potentially hazardous ingredients. Historically, women have risked their health for beauty by using cosmetics laden with poisons.

Mercury Found in Skin-Lightening Cream Smuggled from Mexico Fox News Latino February 22nd, 2012 California health officials have found mercury in an illegal skin-lightening cream smuggled in from Mexico.

Does Your Favorite Lipstick Contain Lead? by Lauren Arute, Philadelphia Weekly February 21st, 2012 Though lead has been banned in paint since 1978 for its toxicity levels, you may be exposing yourself to it when you swipe on your favorite tube of lipstick, according to a recent MSNBC article.

Lead in lipstick, arsenic in eyeliner and cadmium in mascara: The ugly secrets that the beauty industry isn’t telling you by Daisy Dumas, Mail Online February 21st, 2012

Natural Lipsticks Like Burt’s Bees Can Still Contain Lead by Elizabeth Nolan Brown , Bliss Tree February 17th, 2012 Yesterday, I mistakenly told you that Burt’s Bees made lead-free lipstick. Um, psych?

Can Your Lipstick Give You Lead Poisoning?! Perez Hilton February 14th, 2012 Beware when you give your love that Valentine's Day smooch!

Lipsticks, Perfumes May Be Hazardous to Health by Mikaela Conley, ABC News February 14th, 2012 Beware of lipstick-stained lips before puckering up this Valentine’s Day. They could be covered in lead.

Could your Valentine's kiss give you lead poisoning? by Mitch Lipka, AlertNet February 13th, 2012 If you're going to be on either end of a kiss this Valentine's Day, you might want to consider smooching bare-lipped. Most lipstick contains lead.

Brazilian Blowout to carry warning labels Los Angeles Times February 8th, 2012 The maker of the popular Brazilian Blowout hair-smoothing treatment has agreed to begin warning consumers and hairstylists that its products contain potentially hazardous formaldehyde, but some consumer advocates say that doesn't go far enough.

Fatal Attraction: Cosmetics and Chemicals [infographic] by Chelsey Kilzer, Daily Infographic February 7th, 2012 The cosmetic industry is self regulated and allows companies to include harmful chemicals, 89% of which have not been tested by the FDA.

Is that Lead in Your Lipstick? FDA Tests Reveal Raised Lead Levels in U.S. Lipsticks by Amy Westervelt, Forbes February 7th, 2012 In December 2011, the FDA updated its tests and posted the results on its website rather quietly. There are now two brands (Maybelline and L’Oreal) with lipsticks above California’s standard.

Wearing Scented Products Like Perfume or Cologne in Public Could Become Regulated Fox Chicago February 3rd, 2012

Planned Parenthood controversy also exposes Komen's corporate problem by Susan Perry, MinnPost February 3rd, 2012 It looks like Susan G. Komen for the Cure’s defunding of Planned Parenthood's breast cancer services may have finally yanked the curtain aside and revealed what’s really been going on behind the scenes of that powerful and well-funded breast cancer organization.

Brazilian Blowout fallout by Kim Painter, USA Today February 1st, 2012 The company that makes those popular Brazilian Blowout hair-straightening treatments will have to change labels to warn hairstylists that two of its products emit formaldehyde gas, under a settlement with the California attorney general.

Brazilian Blowout: Perfect Case Study for our Broken System by Stacy Malkan, Not Just A Pretty Face February 1st, 2012 Kudos to California Attorney General Kamala Harris for doing what no other government agency in the U.S. has been able to do: get Mike Brady and the folks over at Brazilian Blowout to stop lying about the dangers of their products.

Brazilian Blowout Maker Agrees to Warn Consumers About Formaldehyde by Sora Song, Time January 31st, 2012 The maker of Brazilian Blowout, a popular line of hair-straightening treatments used in salons, has agreed to warn consumers and hairstylists that two of its products emit formaldehyde gas, California’s attorney general said on Monday.

Brazilian Blowout maker settles with state over formaldehyde claim by Matt Stevens, LA Times January 31st, 2012 The company behind the popular Brazilian Blowout hair-straightening treatments will have to warn hairstylists that two of its most popular products can expose users to formaldehyde gas, according to the terms of a settlement with the California attorney general.

Brazilian Blowout maker agrees to labeling changes Fox News January 31st, 2012 The maker of a popular line of hair-straightening products has agreed to alert consumers that two of its formulations emit formaldehyde gas, a possible carcinogen, California's attorney general announced.

Brazilian blowout case raises safety concerns CBS News January 31st, 2012 The Brazilian blowout is one of the most popular hair styling trends seen in years. The hair treatment promises straight hair for months after just one salon visit. But now, the treatment comes with a warning: the products involved may be dangerous.

Brazilian Blowout agrees to post formaldehyde warning by Jeremy P. Jacobs, GreenWire January 31st, 2012 The maker of the controversial Brazilian Blowout hair product yesterday agreed to a settlement that requires it to warn consumers that the solution emits formaldehyde when used.

‘Skin deep’ in more ways than one by Thandisizwe Chimurenga, San Francisco Bay View January 31st, 2012 Very little if any media attention or research has looked at the possible connections between African American beauty salons, the personal care products utilized primarily by Black women and adverse health outcomes, specifically in the area of reproductive health. But that has begun to change.

Breaking Brazilian Blowout News Virginia Sole-Smith January 31st, 2012 Hey, remember waaay back in 2010 when the supposedly “formaldehyde-free” Brazilian Blowout hair straightening treatment tested positive for — irony alert! — formaldehyde?

Brazilian Blowout Legally Labeled Carcinogenic ... Will It Matter? by Amy Westervelt, Forbes January 30th, 2012

Soaps, makeup and other items contain deadly ingredients, say consumer advocates by Carolyn Butler, The Washington Post January 30th, 2012 In the past few years I’ve become much more attuned to “clean” living — organic foods, limited sun exposure, filtered water — so when a friend suggested that many of the lotions and potions we apply to our skin are bad for us, I went through my family’s bathroom cabinets and began reading labels. It wasn’t pretty.

Maker of Brazilian Blowout hair products agrees to settle Calif. lawsuit with labeling changes Associated Press January 30th, 2012 The maker of a popular line of hair-straightening products has agreed to alert consumers that two of its formulations emit formaldehyde gas, a possible carcinogen, California’s attorney general announced Monday.

J&J recalls Aveeno Baby Calming Comfort Lotion Reuters January 27th, 2012 Johnson & Johnson on Friday said it is recalling more than 2,000 tubes of its Aveeno Baby Calming Comfort Lotion after U.S. regulators identified excessive levels of bacteria in a product sample.

Environmental Chemical Exposure May Contribute To Childhood Obesity Medical News Today January 24th, 2012 Researchers from the Children's Environmental Health Center at The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York have found an association between exposure to the chemical group known as phthalates and obesity in young children - including increased body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference.

Scared Straight by Mary A. Fischer, Allure January 23rd, 2012 Warning: A hot new hair-straightening treatment from Brazil could be a health hazard. But that hasn't stopped people from performing it.

Know What's in Your Personal Care Products by Sheila Hollender, 7Gen Blog Starting a new year always makes one think about the changes possible in one's daily life. At Seventh Generation we have always held the principle of ingredient disclosure in our products as a basic tenant of our business. To help you get the information on product ingredients in personal care products, we suggest the following sites:

Perfume Ban in New Hampshire? State Explains Why by Joanna Douglas, Shine - Yahoo January 19th, 2012 Many women love wearing perfume, but have you ever gotten a headache from someone who has sprayed on way too much of a scent you don't like?

North grad takes aim at toxins by Amy DeMelia, The Sun Chronicle January 16th, 2012 Darylle Sheehan is on a mission to rid everyday products of toxic chemicals.

Raising a stink about the contents of fragrances by Tom Watson, The Seattle Times January 13th, 2012 Fragrances evoke emotions and bring back memories, and we all have our favorites. But when they come in a bottle or a box, the reality is not so romantic. More than 3,000 different chemicals are used to create fragrances in cosmetics, household cleaners and other consumer products.

Canadians Asked to Face the Facts About What They Put on Their Faces: National TV and online ads alert Canadians to the dangerous, undisclosed, substances in their cosmetics Environmental Defence January 9th, 2012 Putting on makeup in the morning should not be a dangerous game. In a cheeky new ad campaign launched today, Environmental Defence, the environmental organization who led the charge for the ban on Bisphenol A (BPA) in baby bottles alerts Canadians to the many cancer-causing, hormone-disrupting and allergy-inducing substances contained in the personal care products they use every day. The campaign urges the federal government to ban harmful ingredients in cosmetics and to give the Canadian beauty industry a long overdue makeover.