Ghosts and goblins are not the only scary things lurking around this Halloween.
A new report by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, Pretty Scary, reveals that some children’s face paints contain lead, a neurotoxin, as well as nickel, cobalt and chromium, which can cause lifelong skin sensitization and contact dermatitis. Creepier yet, these metals were not listed on the products’ ingredient labels and some products had misleading claims (“hypoallergenic”), so parents are hard-pressed to find safe face paints. To learn more about the tests on face paint check out the full report, and for tips to limit your favorite goblin’s exposure to toxic cosmetics this year visit the page with the Campaign’s recommendations (find recipes there, too!).
While this is particularly concerning for parents at this time of year, these products are used year-round at farmers markets, fairs, dress-up and play, and the lack of cosmetic safety standards is a problem that extends to all cosmetics sold in the United States.
Sign the Petition for Safe Cosmetics calling for the removal of toxic chemicals in all cosmetics and personal care products–from face paint to baby shampoo, from body lotion to deodorant. Shouldn’t we be able to trust — or at least see on the label — that the products we buy don’t contain items known to harm us?