Chemical Exposure on Skin Continues: Understanding Persisting Use of Harmful Substances in Cosmetics

In a move that has stirred controversy, the UK government has announced the reversal of a 25-year ban on animal testing for makeup ingredients. This decision, according to the Home Office, aligns with EU rulings that allow such testing as a "last resort."

However, animal rights organizations are not convinced by the government's assurance. Cruelty Free International, an organization that advocates for animal welfare in the beauty industry, took the UK government to the High Court in August 2022 to clarify the UK's position on animal testing. In May 2023, following the case's hearing, the High Court sided with the government, stating that they were acting legally.

The beauty industry, a significant contributor to global heating and biodiversity loss, has been under scrutiny for its practices. Raw materials like petrochemicals, collagen, and palm oil, sourced by the industry, often devastate rainforests, Indigenous communities, and wildlife. Beauty products also rely on an array of noxious ingredients, including petrochemicals, formaldehyde, coal tar, lead, parabens, and PFAS chemicals. These chemicals are causing increased rates of certain cancers, infertility, and allergies, with lethal side effects disproportionately impacting women, particularly Black women.

The industry also contributes to and reinforces various social issues. Racial capitalism underpins the ways we live and relate to one another, and Black women are disproportionately impacted by harmful ingredients in personal care products like parabens and phthalates. Additionally, the beauty industry perpetuates sexism, ableism, racism, gender binaries, and colorism.

The climate crisis, predicated on socioeconomic planning that prioritizes profit over human life, especially the life of a racialized or marginalized person, is another concern. Fossil fuels have made their way into almost every product imaginable, including beauty products.

The term "cruelty-free" used by companies can be complex to navigate, as some products might contain ingredients that have been tested on animals. In response, the British Beauty Council is working with various policymakers and stakeholders to investigate the challenges facing the UK Government's approach to cosmetics testing.

Despite the High Court's ruling, the UK government has assured the public that they don't view it as overriding the ban and that it remains in place. However, the organization that challenged the UK government in the High Court in May 2023 to clarify its position on animal testing in cosmetics and to maintain the existing ban was not identified in the provided search results.

As the debate continues, it's clear that the beauty industry needs to reconsider its practices to ensure a more sustainable, ethical, and inclusive future for all.

Chemical Exposure on Skin Continues: Understanding Persisting Use of Harmful Substances in Cosmetics