FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: May 10, 2024
Contacts: Melvin Soto, melvin.soto@mail.house.gov

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna (R, FL-13) and Congresswoman Yadira Caraveo, MD (D, CO-08) introduced bipartisan legislation to prohibit toxic chemicals, specifically parabens, from cosmetics and personal care products to safeguard the health of all Americans. Congressman Troy Nehls (R, TX-22) also joined the bipartisan duo as an original co-sponsor of the bill.

The bill seeks to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to declare cosmetics and sunscreens containing parabens adulterated, specifically if they bear or contain parabens, including esters of para-hydroxybenzoic acid. Parabens are a type of preservative commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. However, they have been linked to health concerns such as hormonal disruption and skin cancer. These are often found in cosmetics like lipstick and mascara and personal care products like sunscreen and lotions.

“Do any of us actually know what we’re putting on our skin? It’s not good,” said Congresswoman Luna.  “Cosmetics and personal care products containing chemicals that are dangerous to our health are marketed and sold to millions of Americans with little to zero regulation. I urge members from both sides to support my bill enacting a simple ban on parabens. Our women and families deserve better.”

“As a physician, I’m concerned about the potential harms of parabens, including skin cancer, hormonal disruption, and birth defects. And yet, these days, parabens are everywhere — cosmetics, lotions, and skincare products, just to name a few. The dire reality is that nearly every adult in the U.S. displays traces of paraben contamination,” explained Congresswoman Caraveo, MD. “This bill would help reverse that trend and help ensure that Americans can safely use makeup, sunscreen, and hair care products without having to worry about how it might impact their health.”

“It is extremely concerning that our country has not taken action to protect consumers from harmful chemicals like parabens, which are found in cosmetic products,” said Congressman Nehls. “As a father of three daughters, I am proud to join my colleague, Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna, to ensure that women are protected from these dangerous chemicals.”

Read the bill text here.

Website: luna.house.gov | X: @RepLuna | Instagram: @RepLuna 

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