Tashana asks…I just have a simple question for the Beauty Brains. Well, I hope it is. I was wondering where I could find a dictionary of approved chemicals, chemical combinations etc or something similar that could be used for creating shampoos, conditioners and other cosmetic items. Is there such a thing?
The Left Brain’s locution:
The cosmetic industry is self-regulated, and all legitimate manufacturers agree to follow the rules laid out by the Personal Care Products Council (PCPC) formerly known as the Cosmetics, Toiletries and Fragrance Association (CTFA). One such rule is that everyone has to label their cosmetics using chemical names found in the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI). This is the dictionary you seek.
Unfortunately, to get access to the online version you have to be a member of the PCPC. This is pricey for individuals and small companies. You may be able to find a copy in your local library. You also might try the CTFA Buyers Guide to look for specific ingredients.
For the ambitious Beauty Brains who want to make their own formulas, many of the raw material suppliers have created freely accessible formularies (cosmetic recipe books). Here’s one from Happi magazine.
It’s not our goal to turn everyone into cosmetic chemists, but we’ll encourage those that might be so inspired. Who knows, you could be the one who creates the next big thing at Sephora.
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Brand new subscriber to this site. If you are not familiar with the Environmental Working Group, they are a great source of information.
Their team of experts and scientists: “pores over government data, legal documents, scientific studies and our own laboratory tests to expose threats to your health and the environment, and to find solutions. Our research brings to light unsettling facts that you have a right to know.”
Here’s a link to their cosmetics database, which contains a LOT of information that it sounds like you are looking for: http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
Here’s a link to their user guide, which can help you find your way through the almost overwhelming amount of info they research and compile:
http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/users-guide-to-skin-deep/
From their site: “This site is packed with important health information about the cosmetics you – and your family – use every day. You’ll find product and ingredient safety ratings, health information about cosmetics ingredients and smart shopping tips you can trust.”
Unfortunately, the EWG is mostly a fear-mongering group who doesn’t use science to make their decisions. It is run by a bunch of lawyers more interested in scaring people than in getting the truth out about cosmetics. Their safety ratings are just BS. For example, they rate sodium lauryl sulfate a 2 while rating sodium coco sulfate a 0. They are the same chemical! Another example is Polyparaben. The EWG gives polyparaben a 5 rating. But Polyparaben is a non-existent chemical. There is no such thing! If they had scientists working on their staff they would not make these simple mistakes.
It’s not as pretty as the skin deep database but if you want real, scientific-backed information about chemicals a better source is http://www.cir-safety.org/
If you purchase or have a relationship with your supplier and they are a member of the PCPC, As a good deed, They should help you out sourcing other materials regardless if they get the business or not.
If our company can not supply it, We happily source materials for our customers.
A step beyond customer service.
Regards,
Maggie