Black, Latina, and Asian American Women at risk of exposure to high levels of toxins in cosmetics, say US researchers

Researchers from Occidental College and George Washington University in the US have claimed that beauty products aimed at black, Latina, and Asian American women contain higher levels of toxins such as mercury and steroids, which could lead to health problems.

The research found these beauty and personal care products can contain several hidden chemicals that can affect the endocrine and reproductive systems.

Products such as skin lightening face creams are found to contain topical steroids and mercury, while hair products such as straightening creams and relaxers are claimed to contain oestrogen, which could lead to uterine tumours and premature reproductive development in young girls.

Women aged between 18 and 34 are said to be at higher risk as they buy a larger number of beauty products. On average, this group purchase more than ten types of cosmetics products every year.

Occidental College's urban and environmental policy assistant professor Bhavna Shamasunder and George Washington University's Milken Institute School of Public Health environmental and occupational health assistant professor Ami Zota published the findings from their research in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Zota said: “Pressure to meet Western standards of beauty means African American, Latina, and Asian American women are using more beauty products and thus are exposed to higher levels of chemicals known to be harmful to health.”

Shamasunder said: “For women who live in already polluted neighbourhoods, beauty product chemicals may add to their overall burden of exposures to toxic chemicals.

“Certain racial / ethnic groups may be systematically and disproportionately exposed to chemicals in beauty products since factors such as institutionalised racism can influence product use.”