Why the UK needs safer cosmetics and better regulation

Have you ever thought about what’s really in your new body cream? Could its ingredients be doing more harm than good?

For this year’s Prevention Week, we’re advocating for cosmetics and better regulation. From makeup to moisturisers, the products we use every day might contain hidden chemicals that are putting your health at risk, especially for breast cancer.

What’s the concern with cosmetics? 

It’s never easy to hear that something that makes you feel good might actually be harmful. Yes, “everything is a chemical”. But the concern isn’t with chemicals in general. It’s the harmful ones, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, or EDCs. 

EDCs can interfere with your hormone (endocrine) system by mimicking, blocking or changing natural hormones like oestrogen in your body. Even at low levels, long-term exposure to multiple EDCs (like a chemical cocktail) has been linked to a range of health issues, including an increased risk of breast cancer. 

The most common method of exposure is through the skin, and EDCs are often found in the ingredients of creams, makeup, deodorants and more. So that “timeless glow” from your favourite serum may not be as beneficial as first believed.  

Regulating beauty, it’s time to brush up

The regulation of cosmetics is not as strict as it should be. In many cases, manufacturers are not even required to list all the ingredients, especially when it comes to fragranced products. 

Ever seen “fragrance” or “parfum” on a label and wondered what that actually means? It’s a legal loophole that allows companies to include a range of undisclosed chemicals, including EDCs, under a single, vague term. 

Sadly, this leaves consumers (like you) with the responsibility to navigate complex product labels and identify harmful chemicals. Some common EDCs found in personal care products include:  

• Parabens – cosmetics, body creams and hair products. 

• Phthalates – cosmetics, perfumes and deodorants. 

• PFAS – dental floss and cosmetic packaging. 

• Triclosan – toothpaste and soap. 

Time for UK action 

At Breast Cancer UK, we’re calling for stronger regulation of chemicals often found in everyday products like cosmetics. We want to protect people from unnecessary EDC exposure and to improve breast cancer prevention for everyone. 

Change is possible. France has officially banned PFAS in the production, import and sale of consumer products, including cosmetics! The European Commission is considering the same. The UK has a chance to take a lead, too, but only if there is a push for it. 

What you can do 

You have the right to a healthy environment and a skincare routine that does not put your health at risk. With stronger regulation, greater transparency and more awareness about what goes into our products, we can build a future where beauty doesn’t come at the cost of our health. 

Sign our pledge now! Help us push the UK Government to better regulate harmful chemicals. It only takes 30 seconds to sign. Click here! 

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