Dangers of Max Factor Perfume
The Hollywood cosmetics company Max Factor produces some of the most-beloved fragrances of all time, some of which have been sold since the 1960s. The distinctive scents of vetiver and musk are a must-have for many women when they go out. Although these fragrances can aggravate your allergies or asthma, some contain carcinogens or neurotoxins in the petrochemicals used to manufacture the perfumes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Effects
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Some of the most popular Max Factor fragrances are Jontue, Jaclyn Smith's California, California for Men, Le Jardin and Toujours Moi. To create fragrance, Max Factor uses petroleum-based compounds that make up over 95 percent of the ingredients. These chemicals are known to cause allergy-like symptoms to those who are sensitive, including itchy, watery eyes, sneezing and headaches. These may be worsened for those with conditions such as asthma or migraines.
Prevention/Solution
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In order to prevent allergic reactions and promote the health of those office workers who suffer from asthma and other conditions, many state agencies, such as the Maine Department of Labor has adopted a voluntary fragrance-free policy for employees.
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Theories/Speculation
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Max Factor, along with all other fragrance products, tend to contain known carcinogens such as benzyl acetate, limonene, methylene chloride, which are listed by the EPA as hazardous waste.
A study by the Environmental Working group found that Max Factor products contained ingredients not assessed for safety in cosmetics or with insufficient data, which means the jury is still out on whether these products have dangers beyond just those for allergy and asthma sufferers.
Misconceptions
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A report by the U.S. House Committee on Science and Technology found that most chemicals used in Max Factor fragrances are synthetic compounds derived from petroleum. They include benzene derivatives, aldehydes and other toxic sensitizers, which are known to cause cancer, birth defects, allergic reactions and central nervous system disorders. Diseases that affect the CNS include Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease and SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome). However, there is no scientific evidence of anyone contracting cancer or another disease from use of Max Factor fragrance
Fun Fact
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Max Factor parent company Procter & Gamble will discontinue the Max Factor brand in the U.S. beginning in 2010, in favor of sister brand CoverGirl. Many Max Factor perfumes, while already rare, will no longer be available in U.S. stores. They will continue to be sold in the U.K. and Russia.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Neal Fowler
