The European Commission monitors animal testing for cosmetics in Europe. The European Chemical Agency (ECHA), is responsible for testing the safety of chemical ingredients. The EU regulatory requirements for cosmetics include a ban on 1328 chemicals. Restrictions of quantity of other chemicals apply. Due to restricted chemicals being in the gray area, we will focus on them.
Two chemicals frequently used in the cosmetic industry.
Octocrylene When this chemical is exposed to UV light, it absorbs the rays and produces oxygen radicals that can damage cells and cause mutations. It is readily absorbed by your skin and may accumulate within your body in measurable amounts. Plus, it can be toxic to the environment.
www.womenshealthmag.com
FDA Finally Bans Toxic Triclosan from Antibacterial Hand Soaps. WASHINGTON – The federal Food and Drug Administration announced today that triclosan, a toxicchemical ingredient associated with hormone disruption in people, will no longer be allowed in antibacterial hand soaps, which EWG noted as a significant success.Sep 2, 2016
https://www.ewg.org/release/fda-finally-bans-toxic-triclosan-antibacterial-hand-soaps
The Commission adopted Regulation (EU) No 358/2014(3) restricting the use of triclosan as a preservative to a maximum concentration of 0.2% in mouthwashes and 0.3% in other product categories. Currently, the Commission has no indication that higher health risks could result from the use of triclosan in cosmetic products, but should such data become available, the Commission will request a re-assessment of this issue. The ECHA updates annually the list of substances subject to substance evaluation under REACH(7) aiming to clarify concerns on potential risks to human health and/or the environment(8)
This is all very complex and difficult to understand. Sunscreens use ingredients like Ocotocrylene. Ironically the hazard to humans is when ocotocrylene is exposed to the sun. Triclosan is a hazard to humans in some ways. To determine specifics, more testing needs to be done. There seems to be a lack of alternative testing methods. The (ECHA) feels that testing the ingredients on animals does not impinge on the cosmetic regulations. Keeping cosmetics free of contamination is a concern. Triclosan is a popular preservative in the cosmetic industry.
This Conflict Could Pose a Problem
Unfortunately, it is easy to see how this could be a problem for animal testing regulations. Since natural preservatives are healthier than chemicals, why don’t we use them? Please read this article if you are pregnant or have children, for more information about Triclosan.
My Solution
As I have been known to say Cruelty Free is not the same as safe to use. The best thing to do is be an informed consumer and stick to your own “regulations”
I advocate making your own cleaning products. Making your own cosmetics are more challenging. If making your own cosmetics, I advise making small quantities at a time. I store products in the refrigerator that have perishable ingredient.
A better alternative is to buy from companies that share our concern about animal testing, and the need for use of quality natural ingredients. (see ad below).
You can also see their similar article on this topic.
Conclusion
It seems to me that we have too many laws and regulations in this world. I wish we could all live in peace together. If we held love in our hearts, I doubt testing on animals would have become a thing.
As always I wish to help you find your own way through all these questions. My view suit me but may not suit you. I would love to hear your opinions below in the comments.
Cheers,
Kittie
There were other helpful articles I used to write this post.