Revlon Removes Toxic Chemicals From Certain Beauty Products, Still More to Do
When you’re applying makeup on your face day after day, do you ever wonder what’s in it? I sure do. And although there are a few reliable organic brands—like Josie Maran Cosmetics or bare Minerals—they don’t tend to get the exposure that bigger, more mainstream companies receive.
Which is why it is interesting that Revlon has taken a mea cupla approach to, er, cleaning out its closet. It was announced today that the beauty powerhouse—who is a huge supporter of breast cancer prevention and awareness as well as other women’s causes—is planning to eliminate “some of the most toxic cosmetic chemicals from its makeup, mascaras, and shampoos.”
Hmm…most? At least that’s a step in the right direction. As recently as 2013, Revlon was threatening to sue the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, the organization behind this movement, for “false and defamatory” claims when it was pointed out that more than a few of the Revlon products contained harmful agents. UltraViolet, the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, and the Breast Cancer Fund got nearly 50,000 people to sign an online petition demanding that Revlon stop using cancer-causing chemicals in its makeup and hair dye products.
Related: This Really Works, A Hand Sanitizer Without the Chemicals
“Women shouldn’t be exposed to cancer-causing chemicals when they apply their makeup,” says Shaunna Thomas, co-founder of UltraViolet. “Young women are developing cancer in record numbers, and we are glad that Revlon finally agreed to listen to its consumers and stop making products with toxic chemicals. By taking a stand and dropping toxic chemicals from their products, Revlon is making clear what we all believe: that no one should increase their exposure to carcinogens from using makeup or other beauty products.”
The big win means that the Revlon products will be stripped of known cancer-causing carcinogens like cocamide DEA and styrene as well as two formaldehyde-releasing chemicals DMDM Hydantoin and Quarternium 15. The fight is not yet over though. The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics’ website argues that not only is Revlon at fault, but so are the companies under the P&G umbrella. This includes Cover Girl, Max Factor, Pantene, and Olay (Olay! You’re mom’s favorite face wash!) who have also tested positive for carcinogens in their products.
Related: How to Win an Award in Hollywood: Take Off Your Makeup
Perhaps what is even more disturbing is how all the aforementioned brands are dedicated to, and have raised millions for, the fight against breast cancer. Only time will tell if they are willing to make the necessary changes so that their products support their mission.
