03 October 2007 09:00
A beauty industry friend of mine sent me a link to a forum the other day, where a group of outraged mums shared their disbelief that Lucas’ Papaw Ointment is petroleum jelly-based. My friend, let’s call her A, was similarly up in arms. She’s not only a natural beauty freak herself, but she’s been slathering Papaw on her baby’s bottom for over a year now.
Seems that because Lucas’ Papaw Ointment is registered with the TGA (the Therapeutic Goods of Australia), it only has to list the active ingredient (potassium sorbate) on the packaging. Most people, of course, don’t know this and just assume that the rest of the product is basically mushed-up pawpaw. Especially as so many health food stores sell the stuff.
On the other side of the fence, there are experts who argue that petroleum jelly provides an effective and protective barrier product. One of the most popular multi-use balms around, Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream, contains petrolatum. And then, of course, there’s Vaseline.
I’m kind of going to stay tottering on the fence for this one. I know that when my nose is red and chapped (like now – yep, I am down with the flu yet again), little else soothes my skin as well as Lucas’ Papaw does. But I’m not as sold on it as a lip balm - oil- and wax-based balms seem to work best for my naturally dry lips. However, I know dozens of girls whose lips touch little else.
Anyway, getting to the sharp bit of the blog that is the point … the issue today is not whether petrochemicals should be in beauty in the first place (although I’m sure many of you have strong views on this one). It’s about clear labelling. We should expect it, yes. However, if a product doesn’t list all of its ingredients, and if you’re concerned about what you’re putting on your baby’s or your own skin, do some googling. Or call the company and ask for the information. Then you can make an informed decision.
As for my friend A, she’s now moved onto Simmons Paw Paw, which is petrochemical-free and can be found at selected health stores or on ecobabe.com.au
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