June 11, 2019
Every day, an average woman uses 12 products containing 168 different ingredients. However, one in three cosmetic products contains endocrine disruptors, which can affect hormonal balance and fertility. Some ingredients are even linked to cancer. UFC-Que Choisir has published a guide to sorting out cosmetics.
Toxic substances in skin care products
Day cream, foundation, deodorant or toothpaste, on a daily basis, we are in contact with many products considered harmful to our health. UFC-Que Choisir has produced a guide to help consumers in which 171 cosmetic products were sifted among 170,000 references. At least 143 substances of concern are not yet banned such as propylparaben or butylphenylmethylpropionate.
More worrying, the presence of titanium dioxide is found in toothpastes, balms or lipsticks. This substance is considered risky since it could come into contact with the bloodstream and is likely to be carcinogenic. Titanium dioxide, which can be found under the name E171, will be banned for edibles from January 2020 but the decree does not concern cosmetics.
Turn to healthy cosmetics
In its special issue, L’UFC-Que Choisir highlights healthy alternatives without harmful substances. On the site it is possible to find many quality care products, without risk, at an affordable price. As a bonus, the guide helps us to identify cosmetics to be banned and tells us which products are allergen-free and harmless to health. It is also about favor brands that use natural ingredients such as alum stone for deodorants or charcoal for toothpaste.
The UFC-Que Choisir recommends the Labell organic 2 in 1 apricot shampoo from Intermarché, the composition of which presents little risk to health. For sun products, the association recommends Avène Very high protection cream spf 50+, all of the ingredients of which are green. Finally, for deodorants, opt for Rogé Cavaillès Derma skin care without aluminum salts.
Stephanie Haerts
Read also : Cosmetics: the 5 types of beauty products to avoid
