Pinkwashing: A False Promise in the Fight Against Breast Cancer (what to look out for, brands to avoid, brands I love)
Pinkwashing: A False Promise in the Fight Against Breast Cancer
Every October, pink ribbons appear everywhere, symbolizing Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Companies across industries display the iconic symbol to show their support for breast cancer research, fundraising, and awareness. While this seems like a positive movement, many of these same companies market products that contain harmful chemicals linked to cancer— a practice known as pinkwashing.
What is Pinkwashing?
Pinkwashing refers to the use of breast cancer awareness campaigns by companies to promote their products or improve their image, despite the fact that some of these products contain harmful chemicals that may increase cancer risks. It’s a form of hypocrisy that takes advantage of a compassionate cause to generate profit while failing to address—or even contributing to—the root problem.
Brands Criticized for Pinkwashing
Several major brands that prominently feature pink ribbons in their campaigns have faced backlash for selling products with carcinogens or hormone-disrupting chemicals. Here are a few:
Avon: Long known for its pink ribbon campaigns, Avon has been criticized for using chemicals like parabens, which are linked to hormone disruption and may contribute to breast cancer.
Estée Lauder: As one of the most visible supporters of breast cancer awareness, Estée Lauder has been called out for including harmful ingredients like parabens and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives in some of their beauty products.
Revlon: Revlon, despite aligning itself with cancer awareness initiatives, has used carcinogens such as formaldehyde and other endocrine disruptors in certain products, sparking controversy.
Johnson & Johnson: This major healthcare company has faced lawsuits over the potential cancer risks of its talc-based baby powder, yet it continues to promote breast cancer awareness.
Procter & Gamble (P&G): P&G has launched breast cancer campaigns with brands like Olay and Pantene, but both have been found to use toxic chemicals such as phthalates and parabens in their products.
Brands That Truly Support Women’s Health
In contrast, several clean beauty brands have committed to using safe, non-toxic ingredients while supporting important causes like breast cancer awareness. Here are some brands that prioritize health and transparency:
Well People: This brand is known for its plant-based, non-toxic cosmetics, free from parabens, phthalates, and other harmful chemicals. They are also committed to sustainability and clean beauty practices.
Mad Hippie: Mad Hippie is dedicated to creating safe, effective skincare products with natural ingredients. Their products are free from parabens, synthetic fragrance, and harsh chemicals, making them a trusted choice for those seeking non-toxic skincare.
Plaine Products: Specializing in sustainable and non-toxic personal care, Plaine Products offer refillable bottles and clean ingredients. Their shampoos, conditioners, and body care products are safe for you and the environment.
Beauty by Earth: A fantastic addition for anyone looking to keep their skincare routine clean and effective. Their products are crafted with organic, nontoxic ingredients, making them safe for all skin types.
Their self-tanning range is especially popular, offering a natural, streak-free glow without exposing your skin to harmful UV rays or harsh chemicals. Unlike traditional tanning products, Beauty by Earth’s formulas are packed with nourishing botanicals like aloe vera and shea butter, delivering a sun-kissed look while keeping your skin hydrated and healthy.
By choosing brands like these, you’re not only avoiding toxic ingredients, but you’re also supporting companies that genuinely care about your health and well-being, not just the optics of a pink ribbon.
How You Can Help
As consumers, we have the power to drive change. By supporting brands that prioritize clean ingredients, transparency, and true health advocacy, we send a message that our health matters. Before buying a product with a pink ribbon, take a moment to research its ingredients and the brand’s overall practices.
In the fight against breast cancer, awareness alone isn’t enough. Supporting brands that offer truly clean, non-toxic products is one way to honor that commitment.
To round out your journey toward healthier, nontoxic living, check out my Curating Crunchy Course. It’s a holistic lifestyle course packed with tips on everything from DIY home care to nourishing skincare. I share my personal wellness insights and the clean, conscious brands I trust, helping you transition to a more natural lifestyle without sacrificing quality or effectiveness. Whether you're curious about non-toxic swaps or just starting your wellness journey, Curating Crunchy offers practical and accessible advice for everyone.
Thank you for being here,
Liv
*Some links in this blog are affiliate links, meaning if you purchase through the link I will earn a small commission at no extra charge to you.
