Asbestos Found in Young Girls' Makeup Sold Nationwide

Reporters at WTVD, an ABC-affiliated station in Durham, N.C., had several samples of makeup products marketed and sold to children and young teens tested for harmful ingredients not listed on product labeling. Sean Fitzgerald, the Director of Research and Analytical Services at the lab, stated that the results for the "Just Shine Shimmer Powder" were “alarming.” Besides heavy metals, barium, chromium, lead, and selenium, a significant level of asbestos was found!

Talc is a widely used mineral with a variety of applications. The soft powder absorbs moisture, prevents friction, is highly resistant to heat and electricity, and is used as a filler material in everything from food and pharmaceuticals, to cosmetics, paint and baby powder. Talc is a mineral that, like asbestos, is mined from the earth. The problem lies in that many places where talc is found, asbestos resides right alongside it.

Manufacturers of talc products have been aware of the hazards of asbestos-contamination for many decades. Their disregard for the hazard has been brought to light in recent verdicts, including the 2015 verdict in favor of our client, Judith Winkel, against Colgate Palmolive.

The finding of asbestos in “Just Shine Shimmer Powder” currently on the shelves of stores catering to young girls and teens is a stark reminder that this hazard is real, and continues to exist.

For more information about testing of cosmetics, foods, and household products sold today, visit ewg.org.