We don’t have laws that protect us from harmful chemicals being in the products we buy and bring into our home.

Our Kids Aren't Protected by the FDA - the Shocking Interview by Congresswoman Anna Eshoo of FDA Director Susan Mayne

Nope. 

There are some major gaps in the authority the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has over the safety of cosmetics and personal care products. 

This is something I talk about a lot and the interview I’m sharing here so clearly highlights this fact.

Our Kids Aren't Protected by the FDA - the Shocking Interview by Congresswoman Anna Eshoo of FDA Director Susan Mayne

On December 4, 2019 Congresswoman Anna Eshoo interviewed FDA Director Susan Mayne, PhD in a hearing on the safety of cosmetics. These simple questions, and Dr. Mayne’s “no” answers, really emphasize how little authority the FDA has over the safety of products that end up on store shelves.

The full video is available here. 

While the questions she asks are about baby lotion, the same “no” answers could be applied to any other product we buy at the store and expect to be safe; makeup, skincare, deodorant, etc.

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo:

The FDA’s authority over the safety of baby lotion. Can the FDA require a review of baby lotion for safety before it comes to market?

FDA Director, Susan Mayne, PhD: 

No

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo:

Can the FDA require the manufacturer not use a toxic ingredient, for example formaldehyde, it it’s baby lotion?

FDA Director, Susan Mayne, PhD: 

No

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo:

Is the manufacturer required to register with the FDA before selling the baby lotion?

FDA Director, Susan Mayne, PhD: 

No

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo:

Can the FDA require safety information about the baby lotion?

FDA Director, Susan Mayne, PhD: 

No

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo:

If the baby lotion has caused bad reactions, can the FDA require a recall?

FDA Director, Susan Mayne, PhD: 

No

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo:

If the manufacturer is aware of the bad reactions, is the manufacturer required to report that to the FDA?

FDA Director, Susan Mayne, PhD: 

No

So what can we do? 

Vote. We need policy change. 

Until there is policy change, however, we need to be vigilant advocates for ourselves, read labels, and support companies who are doing the right thing. That’s why I’m here - to help you navigate label reading and share my favorite products that are safe and my favorite toxin-free beauty products.

Share this with a friend. The more people that know about this, the bigger impact we can make!