As much as I get frustrated at how cosmetics companies use manufactured science and exaggerated claims to sell over priced products I also get frustrated when special interest groups use half-truths and poorly applied conjecture to frighten consumers.
Recently I was emailed a report called “The Dirty Dozen – Cosmetics Chemicals to Avoid” – a so-called list of cancer causing ingredients found in everyday cosmetics. This report made many generalizations that are not supported by scientific research.
BHT - Butylated hydroxytoluene. Found in most moisturizer and used as an antioxidant and preservative. The report states, “May cause cancer and interfere with hormone functions”: quoting studies from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (part of the World Health Organization) and the European Commission of Endocrine Disruptors (part of the EU Environment Commission). Notice the caveat “may” used in the language. The report fails to mention that all studies showing BHT to have adverse health effects are based on:
1. Ingesting BHT orally
2. Ingesting concentrations above 0.1%
3. Only studied when BHT was absorbed by the blood stream
In cosmetics BHT:
1. Is used in products labeled “for external use only”
2. Is used at concentrations of 0.01%
3. Cannot be absorbed by the blood stream
According to CIR Expert Panel research published in the 2008 edition of the CIR Compendium, Cosmetics Ingredient Review (pages 43-44) BHT “does not pose a cancer risk to skin, nor does it penetrate the skin far enough to be absorbed into the blood stream”.
What is the CIR Expert Panel? A non-profit organization comprised of members of the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), CFA (Consumer Federation of America) and physicians who annually review cosmetics ingredients for consumer safety. In 2011 they will review 210 individual cosmetics ingredients to ascertain any possible health risks to the public.
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