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Skincare Anarchy

How EWG is Transforming Transparency in Beauty and Personal Care

Ep. 692

In this episode of Skin Anarchy, host Dr. Ekta Yadav speaks with Ken Cook, co-founder and president of the Environmental Working Group (EWG), about transforming transparency in personal care products. Ken shares the origin story of EWG, discussing how his background in environmental advocacy inspired the creation of the organization and its mission to provide consumers with accessible, data-driven information. The conversation delves into the development of EWG’s groundbreaking Skin Deep database, which cataloged thousands of personal care products and ingredients, exposing the lack of regulation and safety testing in the beauty industry.


Ken also discusses how Skin Deep has empowered consumers to make more informed choices about the products they use, leading to a shift in the beauty industry’s approach to clean formulations. The episode highlights the challenges of understanding ingredient interactions and the complexities of chemical regulations, while also offering hope for a future where consumer demand drives brands to prioritize safety and transparency.


Listeners will gain valuable insights into how EWG is continuing to push for better regulations and why it’s essential to stay informed about the chemicals in personal care products. For those interested in making safer, healthier choices, this episode offers a deep dive into the role of transparency in today’s beauty industry.


To learn more about the EWG Skin Deep database and to view their approved cosmetics/skincare, visit their website and social media. Don’t forget to subscribe to Skincare Anarchy on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred platform. Reach out to us through email with any questions.

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