You hear it on the news, read it in print and are inundated with stories on the Internet about how chemicals in the products you use every day are toxic.

General population opinion

We’ve previously discussed what consumers believe about cosmetics and cancer. This study found a large number of people believed personal care products contained dangerous chemicals.

Scientific opinion

Now here is an interesting survey that looked at what experts who dedicate their lives to studying the topic think about how dangerous are the chemicals used in cosmetic products. Note, these scientists do not work for cosmetic companies.

Here are some findings from a survey conducted by George Mason University researchers. The survey included 937 member of the Society of Toxicology. This group is composed of scientists who specifically test chemicals to determine the risk of human exposure. Some of the more interesting findings are below.

Cosmetic product safety

26% believe cosmetics pose a significant health risk.

10% believe organic/natural products are safer

23% say the US regulatory system is inferior to Europe’s.

A significant majority of toxicologists reject the idea that cosmetics pose a significant risk and even fewer believe organic products are safer.

Specific chemical risks

• 9% see Bisphenol A as a high risk.

which means 91% don’t see it as a problem

• 11% see phthalates as a high risk

Opinion of how risks are communicated

• 79% say the Environmental Working Group overstates health risks of chemical exposure.

• 97% say the media doesn’t distinguish good studies from bad studies.

• 80% say the media overstate chemical risks

Survey Summary

This survey really doesn’t “prove” anything about the risk of chemical exposure to cosmetic products. Surveys can never prove science.

However, it does show that most toxicologists do not consider cosmetic chemicals to be a significant concern. Remember these are the scientists who are most aware of the studies and in the best position to make sound judgments.

So who are you going to believe?

Scientists who study these things or political action groups who cherry-pick data to push their views?  Or even worse, the marketing companies that are trying to convince you to buy their products?

Beauty Brains Bottom Line

When you aren’t an expert in a topic, it’s best to listen to the people who are. In this case, the experts say chemicals in cosmetics do not pose a significant health risk.  I’m convinced, how about you?

Do you worry about the chemicals in your cosmetics? If so, why is your opinion different than the majority of toxicologists who study this stuff?

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