Mesothelioma Fears Allayed as Independent Tests of Claire’s Makeup Shows No Asbestos Contamination

Fears of malignant mesothelioma and other related diseases have been haunting parents of teens and preteens after published reports that Claire’s store makeup had been contaminated with asbestos.

In response, the chain quickly recalled nine different makeup kits. Now, according to independent laboratories that analyzed the products, there is no evidence of any asbestos in the products.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is among several asbestos-related diseases. In most cases people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma have been exposed to asbestos in their workplace, but because the product is still widely used in other countries, there is always a concern that imports may be contaminated.

The Claire’s makeup contamination, which was first reported by a Rhode Island news station, indicated that a North Carolina laboratory had found 17 different products purchased at 10 different Claire’s stores around the country were contaminated.

Though the company indicated that its testing was done by “certified” laboratories, the lab that conducted the original testing stands by its results, and questions Claire’s statement. The North Carolina lab prides itself on the sensitivity of the equipment that it uses for asbestos testing: it reportedly uses a transmission electron microscope, where other laboratories use light microscopy or X-ray diffraction processes.

Since the company didn’t reveal the names of the laboratories that conducted their testing, the information they are providing may be questionable. The company also indicated that they had requested the North Carolina lab’s reports, but the lab director has indicated that he has not received any such requests.

The company has revealed that the talc that is contained in the teen makeup products in question came from Merck KGaA, and was accompanied by certificates of analysis showing that it was free of any asbestos contamination. Whether that will ease parent’s mesothelioma fears remains to be seen.

Exposure to asbestos can come from many sources, and any exposure can lead to a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma. If you are concerned about asbestos or have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, contact our Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net today. Call us at 1-800-692-8608.

Written by Terri Oppenheimer

Terri Heimann Oppenheimer is the head writer of our Mesothelioma.net news blog. She graduated from the College of William and Mary with a degree in English. Terri believes that knowledge is power and she is committed to sharing news about the impact of mesothelioma, the latest research and medical breakthroughs, and victims’ stories.

Learn more about and contact Terri