To advocate for stronger U.S. regulations on cosmetic ingredients, we could frame the argument as follows:
The United States needs to adopt higher standards for cosmetic safety by following the European Union’s (EU) example in banning harmful chemicals. Currently, the EU has banned or restricted over 1,300 chemicals and ingredients in cosmetics due to potential risks to consumer health. In stark contrast, the United States has only restricted about 30. This discrepancy leaves American consumers vulnerable to ingredients that are flagged as hazardous in other parts of the world.
The EU takes a proactive, precautionary approach, prioritizing public health over corporate interests by removing ingredients that may pose a risk—even when there is limited data on their long-term effects. The U.S., on the other hand, operates on a largely reactive basis, only banning substances once substantial evidence shows significant harm. This approach lags behind the latest safety standards, exposing Americans to chemicals that could have lasting health impacts, including endocrine disruption, skin irritation, and even links to certain cancers.
By adopting the EU’s regulatory framework, the U.S. could better protect consumers and provide safer options. It’s time for policy change to ensure that the products on American shelves are as safe as those in the EU. We need a regulatory shift that prioritizes health and consumer trust, aligning the U.S. with global standards of safety and care.