![]() There are inherent flaws to Skin Deep, like the overall lack of data that creates a degree of uncertainty in the system, but this challenge is representative of the beauty industry in total. I am proud to share this intimate information with the world, as I believe it will inspire others to take action. My own blood was tested in the Teen Body Burden Study, and when I learned that I had above-average levels of parabens compared to the other teenagers tested, I radically changed my lifestyle and took precautionary measures to avoid harmful chemical exposures. This study not only proved that the ingredients in our everyday products are absorbed into the bloodstream and actually accumulate in our bodies, but it also transformed our conception of personal safety and corporate transparency. They were the first organization to “map the pollution in people” through their Human Toxome Project, which tests human blood for levels of chemical compounds found in consumer products and open-sources the results. While potential competition is emerging from apps like ThinkDirty, the EWG is constantly strengthening their database by pursuing groundbreaking research and developments in health and wellness. The EWG has created an effective, user-friendly platform that enables consumers to take a less passive role in product safety and become proactive about their lifestyle choices. The Skin Deep Database is #winning because it is the only digital platform providing accurate, accessible information about the ingredients in our cosmetics and skincare products. Each product is rated on a scale from 0 (very safe) to 10 (potentially toxic,) and consumers are able to type in any product name and learn the truth about the ingredients. By pooling scientific studies and regulatory statuses from 60 sources, including government agencies, industry panels, academic institutions and other credible bodies, the EWG is able to assess the potential health effects and data gaps for the majority of cosmetic ingredients on the market today. Each ingredient name is given a unique identification number in the database and is then sorted by safety status. Every product that is added to Skin Deep from companies and consumers is carefully reviewed by the organization to identify product type, product use and composition, target demographic, and special product claims. The Environmental Working Group is a non-profit organization on a mission “to empower people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment.” They use the power of information to “drive consumer choice and civic action.” The EWG’s Skin Deep Database was launched in 2004 as an online product and ingredient database that contains information about the ingredients in over 69,000 products. So if the FDA is not protecting our health from the potentially toxic ingredients in the products we rub on our skin every single day, who is actually protecting us? ![]() law, FDA does not have the authority to require cosmetic manufacturers to submit their safety data to the FDA.” While the European Union has banned 1,373 ingredients to date, the FDA has banned 8 and restricted 3. According to the FDA website, “Under U.S. Companies are not even required to test their products for safety before they hit store shelves. Did you know that the ingredients in your toothpaste, deodorant and lip gloss are not tested for safety? Most consumers do not realize that unlike food and drugs, the FDA does not regulate the multi-billion-dollar beauty industry.
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