Minnesota parents often worry about their children’s health and safety. Everyday life issues can place kids at risk for injury, such as falling while playing outdoors. There are often more serious, hidden risks present in children’s lives as well. The Food and Drug Administration recently reported such a risk regarding popular cosmetic products that many teenagers and parents purchase from Claire’s and Justice stores. The FDA says people who use certain products from these stores are at risk for asbestos exposure.
Asbestos particles are microscopic. There is no safe amount of exposure. If ingested or inhaled, these particles can linger in the lungs or other areas of the body, resulting in various types of incurable diseases, such as mesothelioma or asbestosis. The FDA recently published the results of tests done on products from Claire’s and Justice stores. These results state that asbestos was found in several cosmetic products from both stores.
The cosmetic products in question are marketed for minors. Claire’s issued a public statement saying it has pulled the products in question from its shelves. While this prevents future sales of potentially dangerous products, it does not affect the tens of thousands of purchases that have already been made, nor does it mitigate the possible health concerns that may arise regarding those who have or are currently using such products at home.
Asbestos exposure rarely produces any immediately apparent negative effects. It can take years for symptoms of mesothelioma, asbestosis and other asbestos-related illnesses to surface. Minnesota parents and other residents concerned about possible exposure and related health risks will want to learn how to recognize signs of possible asbestos injury and also where to seek legal support, if needed, regarding a particular product or incident.
