Not So Pretty

The U.S. is a nation that loves looking good; it spends $716 billion on cosmetics annually; while people trust that their cosmetic products are safe, behind the glam and glitter lie darker truths that are not so pretty.

With little regulation over cheap, mass-produced products of the nail industry, many salon workers suffer from health issues as lobbyists attempt to block measures that would protect technicians and consumers alike.

Taking a stand against the $140 billion industry, doctors and scientists discuss how consumers can avoid harmful fragrances and plastics found in skin cosmetics, as well as the ways pollution can disproportionately affect communities of color.

A popular brand of curl products comes under fire after users and former spokespeople speak out about their harmful experience; Black women receive disproportionate hair care marketing towards them, pressuring them to abandon their natural hair.