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« Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel does bang-up job on BPA | Main | Phthalates, phthalates everywhere »

Santa, please bring me toxin-free fragrance

December 24, 2008

woman-spraying-perfume.jpg

My world has changed much since I arrived at EWG in 2006. Unlike most of the other staff members, I don't have a background in science. I studied journalism and public relations. To be honest, most of my school years were spent skipping science classes.

And then I started working here. Since then, I've used EWG's research and greener living tips not only for work, but for my personal life also. I do my best to avoid toxins and make better shopping decisions.

But there is one thing that I struggle with the most -- it's perfume. Having grown up in a country (Serbia) where as soon as you are born, people spray you with perfume, it's fair to say that I'm a fragrance junkie. You can just imagine my reaction when I hear that my favorite Channel, Dior and Givenchy are loaded with toxic chemicals!

So, my wish for Santa is simple. I want to be able to continue spraying on my fragrances, minus the toxic chemicals.

Under the current law, manufacturers of personal care products, don't have to disclose what chemicals make up their fragrances, on grounds that the mix is a trade secret. That label hides dozens and sometimes even a hundred chemicals.

What I hope Santa will bring to me and all other fragrance lovers out there is a new law that would better regulate the personal care products and keep the toxic chemicals out of them. Then, we would still be able to smell good without being endangered by potent chemicals. It's not too much to ask.

« Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel does bang-up job on BPA |