QUESTION:
Are you at risk for getting a chemical burn when using bath bombs?
ANSWER:
No, experts say this is not likely to happen.
SOURCES:
FDA, George Washington University Associate Professor Capital Laser & Skin Care Director, Spin Master Spokesperson
PROCESS:
Will a bath bomb leave you burned? Sounds far from the relaxation it's supposed to bring.
On December 7, a mom shared a warning on Facebook showing pics of her daughter who she says suffered a chemical burn after being in water for about 45 seconds with the bath bomb kids product.
Lots of concerned mothers have been spreading the post to other parents but do those bombs really put you at risk for a chemical burn?
On the FDA's website, who monitors the regulations regarding color additives in products, color additives FD&C Blue No 1, FD&C Yellow No.5, and D&C Red No. 33 are approved for use. These colors are found in the Hatchimal Bath Bomb product ingredients list.
Next, we sent the photo to two board certified dermatologists, Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, director at Capital Laser & Skin Care in Washington, D,C, and Dr. Adam Friedman, George Washington University Associate Professor of Dermatology.
Both say there's very little chance that's a chemical burn.
“A chemical burn is a severe and fast destruction of skin usually caused by strong acids or bases, like hydrochloride acid. It destroys tissue on contact…that “chemical burn” is more of an irritant dermatitis and yes it can happen to people who are particularly sensitive to dyes or fragrance,” Dr. Tanzi said.
Instead, the dermatologists say it looks like the child had an allergic reaction to an ingredient, an "irritant dermatitis."
Dr. Friedman said, “If you have a known allergy to certain ingredients or cosmetics whether it be fragrances, dyes, or even essential oils it's also important to know what's actually in that bath bomb.
Overall bath bombs are very safe and were intended for sensitive skin, however it's important to look at the ingredients before using.”
And don't forget, a child's skin is thinner and more sensitive so they're more likely to have a reaction to perfumes and added colors.
We also checked with the manufacturer of the Hatchimal bath bomb product, Spin Master. They said they're working with the family to get more information but after review, they don't suspect any defects or manufacturing issues.
“Spin Master has been looking into the matter with the manufacturer and licensee to whom we license the Hatchimals brand. Safety is our top priority and we are deeply saddened to learn of the girl's injuries. At this point, Global Brands Group has not found any indication of a product defect or manufacturing issue. Additionally, the product formulation has been subject to stringent safety testing and meets all industry standards.”
You might have an allergic reaction, but there's very little chance you're going to get burned by a bath bomb.
The FDA told WUSA9 they urge consumers to contact them with issues pertaining to cosmetics.
An FDA spokeswoman explained to Verify researchers, "We provide phone numbers for consumer complaint coordinators for each state, and have a web-based reporting form consumers can either complete online or print out and mail. More information, including details on how we handle confidential information, is here. Under existing law, companies are not required to seek approval from the FDA before putting a new cosmetics product on the market, nor are they required to report safety hazards or problems to the FDA."
