Sunday, July 15, 2007

Letter to Editor, Detroit Free Press

This is a copy of the editorial I posted to Detroit Free Press this week:

I was disappointed to read your “Skin Care Star” article in this week’s Twist. As a women’s resource and lifestyle publication, featuring natural 'imposters' like Malin and Goetz perpetuates the myth that beauty comes at no cost and continues to propel a billon dollar industry that’s having devastating affects on our health.

Many consumers are unaware that the FDA does not regulate skin care companies nor do they require ingredients to be approved, therefore placing voluntary guidelines in the hands of companies. I decided to check the label on one of Malin and Goetz’s ‘star’ products. Of the 27 ingredients in the Vitamin E Face Moisturizer, 17 are considered synthetic irritants including six considered to be highly-toxic or containing known carcinogens. Far from the ‘trusted natural ingredients” and “botanical extracts” (I didn’t see one listed) they promote on their website.

These guys might be great marketers, and I’m sure they don’t seek to do purposeful harm, but I’d question if they have any idea what their products are doing to women’s endocrine, nervous and reproductive systems. Twist’s audience would be better served by seeking and promoting companies that know the difference and are in a woman’s best interest. I hope you will share this with your readers.