Popular cosmetics chain-store Claire's recently pulled several of its products off shelves when it emerged that those items tested positive for asbestos contamination after a Providence, Rhode Island mother sent makeup out for testing. According to several media reports, tests performed by Scientific Analytical Institute in Greensboro, North Carolina showed that glitter makeup purchased from Claire's retail chain came back positive for asbestos.
Further testing on other products showed eye shadows, blushes, and compact powders in nine other states all tested positive for asbestos, a carcinogen mineral known to the Centers for Disease Control to cause Mesothelioma, a rare and deadly form of lung cancer. Claire's subsequently pulled all those products from its shelves, as well.
“We work closely with our vendors to ensure our products are tested and assessed in line with the relevant country regulations and guidelines,” a Claire's representative told WPRI-TV. “As a result of today's inquiry from WPRI-TV, we have taken the precautionary measure of pulling the items in question from sale, and will be conducting an immediate investigation into the alleged issues. Once we have more information and have the results of the investigation we will take the necessary action.”
Most of the products pulled from store shelves tested positive for tremolite asbestos, a form of the mineral which commonly forms around other minerals like vermiculite, chrysotile (itself a type of asbestos) and talc (a common ingredient in many makeup products). One other test sample also came back positive for chrysotile asbestos, which is the most common form of the mineral found in the U.S.
Justice Stores Pull Makeup Over Asbestos Contamination
Claire's recall marks the second major cosmetics pull from stores across the country marketing to young girls. In July of 2017, Justice stores pulled its just Shine Shimmer Powder from stores over allegations the product contained asbestos. While the company denied any wrongdoing, it nonetheless removed the products from stores out of what it characterized as an abundance of caution for the health and safety of young customers.
Concerned individuals also sent samples to the Scientific Analytical Institute where technicians discovered not only asbestos but also other deadly chemicals like Barium, Chromium, Lead, and Selenium. Despite the reassurances from companies like Justice and Claire's, there is simply to acceptable level of asbestos exposure to anyone at any age.
Although asbestos is heavily regulated, exposure still occurs from companies failing to take proper steps to ensure their products do not contain any of the deadly mineral. Women around the country have also alleged that they suffered a mesothelioma diagnosis from asbestos-contaminated talcum powder produced by companies like Johnson & Johnson and Colgate Palmolive.
Arizona Mesothelioma Lawyer
If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact our office to speak to one of our experienced Arizona mesothelioma attorneys about your situation. Our office can help investigate your case and determine if compensation can be sought from negligent parties to help pay for your medical treatment to help you and your family live a more comfortable life.
