Unfortunately, some makeup products may do more than enhance the wearer’s looks and not in a good way. Cosmetic defects can cause serious reactions or injury to the body that may permanently damage a user’s health and physical appearance.
Examples of some cosmetic defect injuries:
• Eyesight loss
• Skin problems
• Physical pain
• Emotional trauma
• Toxin-related illnesses
• Other health issues
Like all manufacturers, cosmetic makers have to follow products liability standards and make sure that their eye shadow, mascara, blush, foundation, cleansers, eyeliner, lipstick, skin creams, exfoliants, cleansers, and other products are safe for use (per the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.) This includes carefully selecting the ingredients in each makeup item, listing all ingredients, providing the applicable expiration date, and, prior to making the cosmetic product available to buyers, testing it to make sure that it doesn’t easily irritate the skin or cause injury to the body. Whether the makeup product is from an exclusive line or easily available at drug stores and groceries, a customer should be able to use makeup without worry.
Common cause of cosmetic defects:
• Use of inadequate preservatives during manufacturer
• A faulty manufacturing process that allows for bacteria or other contaminants to enter the makeup
• Inadequate packaging
Some cosmetics may not even be contaminant-free when they are first opened or they may become contaminated during use. Considering that the majority of women, teens, and young girls use makeup on a regular basis, it is also equally important that they know if a cosmetic product has anything in it that could cause them to develop a bad reaction.
Recently, researchers warned that phthalates found in makeup might be increasing the wearer’s risk of diabetes. According to the study by researchers associated with Uppsala University, this chemical compound, when found in perfume, self-tanning lotions, and face creams, can significantly raise the risk of type 2 diabetes. The study looked at the blood level information of 1000 65-year-olds, whose ‘fasting’ blood sugar levels were evaluated. According to test results, a higher level of the plastic chemicals had a diabetes risk that was double to that of lower levels. Phthalate can also be found in some hair sprays and other makeups.
Earlier this year, L’Oreal was sued by plaintiffs contending that the Garnier Fructis Sleek & Shine Anti-Frizz Serum is flammable. If the allegations are true, considering that it is not uncommon for people to spray themselves while using a blow dryer, flat iron, curling iron, or another hair styling appliance that requires heat and electricity, such a safety hazard could case serious burn injuries.
At The Gilbert Law Group®, our product defect lawyers represent clients injured by all types of consumer products. We are considered one of the leading products liability law firms in the US.
High levels of phthalates can lead to greater risk for diabetes, Uppsala University, April 11, 2012
Lawsuit claims Garnier Fructis anti-frizz serum by L’Oreal is flammable, KHOU, May 23, 2012
Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
