Claims circulating on social media suggest that Palmer’s Coconut Oil Body Lotion is unsafe because it contains ingredients such as Carbomer, Propylene Glycol, and Phenoxyethanol. These allegations have raised concerns among consumers who use this product regularly.
However, Fact Crescendo found the claim to be misleading. The claim on the viral video lacks scientific evidence. According to the regulatory bodies, the ingredients (Phenoxyethanol, Propylene Glycol and Carbomer) in the Palmer Coconut Oil body lotion are recognized as safe and harmless when used within the established limits.
Fact Check-
Let’s check the facts of the ingredients mentioned in the viral video.
Phenoxyethanol: Phenoxyethanol is a synthetic chemical substance widely used as a preservative in the preparation of skin, cosmetic, and personal care products. It is mainly responsible for the prevention of bacteriological and fungal contamination.
Studies, including tests on humans, found that it does not cause serious harm, not an allergen, and not toxic to the body in the amounts generally used. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel reviewed it in 1990 and again in 2007 and confirmed it is safe to use in cosmetics at levels usually under 1%. The FDA also reviewed it and approved it for limited use in food packaging. The same ingredient has also been approved as a preservative by the European Union to be used in cosmetics.
Propylene Glycol: According to the National Institute of Health, propylene glycol is a synthetic liquid that absorbs water and is used in many industries. It helps keep food, medicine, and cosmetics moist, acts as a solvent for flavors and colors, and is used as antifreeze when food contact is possible. The FDA considers it safe for use in food. It is also used to make polyester, deicing solutions, and artificial smoke for fire training and theater shows.
CDC report says that Propylene glycol is approved for use in food, cosmetics, and medicine at safe levels. Most people are exposed to it by eating, using skincare products, or taking medicine, but these small amounts are not harmful. Workers in industries using propylene glycol may touch or breathe it in, but exposure is usually low.
In another report, CDC clarified that propylene glycol can enter the body through air, skin (using products containing the ingredient) and directly to our blood stream through the food we consume with propylene glycol as an ingredient. But it breaks down in the body in about 48 hours. Unlike ethylene glycol, it does not form harmful crystals. However, repeated exposure to propylene glycol through skin contact, eyes, nose, or mouth can cause mild irritation.
The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), and the EPA have not classified propylene glycol for carcinogenicity. Animal studies have not shown this chemical to be carcinogen.
According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR), Propylene glycol esters are ingredients used in many cosmetics like lotions, creams, perfumes etc. Studies show that these ingredients are safe to use in cosmetics, with no serious health risks. However, some people with sensitive skin might experience mild irritation. These esters can be absorbed by the skin but break down quickly in the body. Some types also help other ingredients go deeper into the skin. The FDA and other health organizations approve their use. But companies need to make sure they are properly made and free from harmful substances like pesticides or heavy metals. Overall, propylene glycol esters are safe in cosmetics as long as they are used correctly and made with good quality control.
Carbomer: Carbomer is the trade name for polyacrylic acid. These are synthetic ingredients that cosmetic and pharmaceutical companies use in products due to their suspending, emulsifying, and thickening properties.
According to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review, Carbomer and related ingredients are considered safe for use in cosmetics and personal care products when used within established limits. The panel found that these ingredients are generally not harmful because they are not easily absorbed through the skin. Studies showed that Carbomers did not cause cancer, damage DNA, or create serious health problems. Some irritation to the skin or eyes can happen in high concentrations, but these are mild and temporary.
The FDA had also listed Carbomers as one of the approved ingredients. Below you can see the list of carbomers.
Conclusion:
Fact Crescendo found the claim to be misleading. According to the regulatory bodies, the ingredients (Phenoxyethanol, Propylene Glycol and Carbomer) in the Palmer Coconut Oil body lotion are recognized as safe and harmless when used within the established limits.
Title: Is Palmer’s Coconut Oil Body Lotion Harmful Due to Its Ingredients?
Fact Check By: Siddharth Sahu
Result: Misleading
