In a new report, the results of which were published this Thursday, September 30, the Wecf France association denounces the presence of problematic substances in female cosmetics and denounces their consequences on health, especially for pregnant women.
BB creams, concealers and mascaras in the crosshairs
In its latest report, the Wecf France association (an ecofeminist association that defends a healthy environment) looked at the composition of female cosmetics. In May 2021, its teams were indeed interested in three categories of makeup products used daily by many people: BB creams, concealers and mascaras. In total, 47 products purchased in perfumery, organic stores, supermarkets and (para) pharmacy were scrutinized by the association.
By deciphering cosmetic labels, the team was able to identify substances that are problematic for health and the environment, based on the available scientific literature. The substances were then classified into 3 categories: very worrying, worrying, somewhat worrying.
37 problematic substances found in the 47 products analyzed
After analyzing the substances present in cosmetics, the members of Wecf France identified 37 substances problematic for health such as endocrine disruptors, persistent substances, bioaccumulative, nanoparticles or allergens. Although no substance is banned in these products, they are no less of a health concern, especially for pregnant women. In detail, among the 37 problematic substances, 13 were classified of concern, 9 of concern and 15 of moderate concern.
Speed up the regulation of these substances of concern
Faced with this, Wecf France is asking the European Union to speed up the regulation of these substances considered to be of concern or even very worrying but still authorized. This is why it calls for the ban of ingredients classified as very worrying whose endocrine disruptors are the following: benzyl salicylate, BHT, butylphenyl methylpropional, ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate, ethylparaben, methylparaben, octocrylene.
In addition, the association is calling for more readable and understandable labeling for consumers and better identification of problematic substances, in particular through the introduction of warning logos for pregnant women (especially for cosmetic products containing ingredients. suspected of being endocrine disruptors). Finally, the association calls for strengthening the research and expertise work of ANSM and ANSES to identify the risks associated with the use of cosmetic products containing problematic ingredients, specifically for pregnant women.
