Website

Check out my website dedicated to investigating what's really in your beauty products at http://journalism.bournemouth.ac.uk/2010/hmullins

I recently became interested in this after reading numerous press reports and scientific studies concerning the safety of cosmetics. I've heard various claims that products contain whale blubber, brake fluid, bull's sperm and a whole load of other extraordinary ingredients but it's not so much this that I'm interested in. Rather, I want to explore the usual chemicals that are included in the majority of the products we buy and use.

How much research has been done into the safety of the chemicals that we apply to our skin on a regular basis? Quite a lot it turns out, but how much has the research been used? Many scientists, toxicologists and environmentalists have not only voiced their concerns over chemicals such as parabens and pthalates but have backed them up with scientific tests. Yet, because other research has proved the opposite, no changes have developed. Should more research be being done? Should these chemicals be banned at least until their safety can be ensured?