Formulating for Moms-in-the-Making

By: C&T magazine staff

Posted: November 26, 2008, from the December 2008 issue of Cosmetics & Toiletries.

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The screening process, developed by J. Rubin, searches through millions of published medical research studies for materials that have been linked, even remotely, to birth defects. The company then formulates products omitting any of those materials.

“This system connects to all global databases and works within the specialty of teratology,” explained A. Rubin. “We completely omit any ingredients that are remotely linked to adverse effects.”

According to A. Rubin, this information is not easily accessible and a medical degree is required to interpret the information reported in these studies.

“We only work with doctors and they work closely with our chemists, giving them a list of ingredients that they can or cannot use.” In respect to this partnership, A. Rubin says a key component is in finding a formulator who can respect that mindset. “Our chemists really love the exchange of information.”

Unfounded Alarm?
Historically, consumer concern over ingredients lacking solid scientific backing has prompted a call for more regulation, and many in R&D feel that formulating with a free-form approach only perpetuates unfounded alarm. In response to this notion, A. Rubin says that the company’s primary interest is to support expectant mothers by providing them with a choice.