Recent investigations from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have articulated that chemicals from sunscreens permeate into the human bloodstream at a rapid pace, reaching significant elevations. Such data only strengthens the need for an examination of sunscreen safety regulations and their associated health impacts.
Chemicals of Concern in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products
An array of chemical substances found in cosmetics and personal care items have raised concerns over their potential harmful effects on human health.
Phthalates
Phthalates, commonly utilized as plasticizers and solvents, are found in a variety of products including fragrances, hair products, skin lotions, nail polishes, and nail hardeners. These compounds are potentially endocrine disruptors and have been associated with endometriosis, early puberty in girls, reproductive organ abnormalities, reduced male fertility, thyroid implications, and even obesity.
Parabens
Parabens act as preservatives in numerous cosmetics, with methyl paraben being the most frequently used. Although their impact on human health isn’t entirely clear, laboratory tests have indicated potential endocrine disruption effects.
Nanoparticles
Some mineral makeup and sunscreen merchandise may contain titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, particles within the nano range. These nanoparticles have been linked with cellular damage, including damage to DNA.
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Donors
Primarily found in hair straighteners and nail polish/hardeners, formaldehyde is a preservative that poses multiple potential health concerns such as skin, eye, nose, and respiratory tract irritation, and even cancer among high exposure is encountered.
Coal Tar
Coal tar, a recognized carcinogen, is used in psoriasis and dandruff treatments. Some colouring dyes also derive from coal tar. Triclosan, a preservative and antibacterial agent in personal hygiene products like antiperspirant, soap, hand wash, and toothpaste, has shown endocrine disruptor effects in animal tests.
The Impact of Heavy metals
Additional concerns arise from heavy metals such as Lead, Arsenic, Mercury, and Chromium, which are used in cosmetic and healthcare products.
| Chemical | Products | Health Concerns |
|---|---|---|
| Phthalates | Fragrances, Hair Products, Skin Lotions | Endocrine Disruption, Reproductive Issues |
| Parabens | Cosmetics | Potential Endocrine Disruption |
| Nanoparticles | Mineral Make-up, Sunscreens | Cellular damage, DNA damage |
| Formaldehyde | Hair straighteners, Nail polish | Skin, Eye, Nose Irritation, Cancer |
Cosmetic Regulation in India
In India, cosmetic products are regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act 1940 and Rules 1945 as well as Labelling Declarations by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). The latter sets standards for the cosmetics listed under Schedule ‘S’ of the Drugs and Cosmetics Rules 1945. Moreover, all imported cosmetic products for sale in India are required to be registered with the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), the licensing authority under these rules.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024