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High Levels of Asbestos in Children’s Makeup

March 9, 2020

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One of the most carcinogenic substances is asbestos. Often found in construction and automotive materials, asbestos-related illnesses have continually plagued these professions, especially children. According to the Environmental Working Group, asbestos was found in children’s makeup such as the IQ Toys Princess Girl’s All-in-One Deluxe Makeup Palette. They state that within every gram of eye shadow, four million asbestos fibers were found. Even though this specific brand was taken off the shelves of stores, similar products exist and are continually purchased.

Dangers of Asbestos Exposure

Any amount of asbestos exposure is dangerous for an individual. A BMJ Case Report study examined a mesothelioma patient who had very little exposure to asbestos, further proving how harmful the substance is. Asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. The two most common forms of mesothelioma develop in the lining of the pleura and the peritoneum. Because asbestos fibers are microscopic, it is very easy to inhale or swallow particles. These particles tend to stick into the lining of the lungs and begin to alter the lining of the cells, causing a mutation. This mutation is the origin of the mesothelioma disease. This also happens in the lining of the abdomen

It is not unusual for asbestos and talc to coexist in nature. In many regions, talc deposits are contaminated with asbestos fibers. Due to the wide variety of uses for talc, there is a greater chance of encountering asbestos. Because talc has been used in products such as toys, makeup, and crayons, children are at a high risk for asbestos exposure. If children are exposed at their young age, it gives more time for asbestos-related illnesses to develop.

Makeup and Asbestos

When looking at whether makeup should be given to children, many topics must be considered.

• Makeup is not required to be safety tested prior to distribution
• Children tend to have thinner skin than that of an adult
• Toy makeup kits are made from cheaper and potentially hazardous materials than makeup sold for adults.

In order to avoid asbestos exposure in children’s makeup, parents should:

• Avoid talc-based powders and look for cream-based products instead.
• Research ingredients within all cosmetic products for possible minerals and chemicals that have negative reactions in humans.

Pennsylvania Asbestos Attorneys at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler Help Individuals Obtain Justice for Asbestos Exposure

If your child was exposed to asbestos in children’s makeup, contact a Pennsylvania asbestos attorney at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler. Our lawyers work closely with clients to obtain justice for asbestos exposure and help recover entitled damages. If you are interested in speaking to an attorney, contact us online or call us at 215-569-4000 for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout New Jersey and Pennsylvania, including Delaware County, Philadelphia County, and Chester County.