CVS Is Taking Chemicals Out of Its Makeup

If you've been concerned about the chemicals in your makeup, don't fret: CVS is giving its beauty products a makeover.

CVS Pharmacy announced in a press release that it would remove chemicals like parabens, phthalates and specific formaldehyde donors – compounds that release formaldehyde as it decomposes in products – in approximately 600 beauty and personal care products. These products come from a number of store brand lines including CVS Health, Beauty 360, Essence of Beauty and Blade.

A recent study found that using cosmetics and shampoos without chemicals rapidly decreases the levels of hormone-disrupting chemicals in teen girls. Chemicals such as phthalates and parabens are in many cosmetics products, meaning it's possible women are exposed more significantly to these chemicals. According to researchers, there's been growing evidence associating hormone-disrupting chemicals to factors like obesity and the growth of cancer cells.

The company cited customer feedback as the reason for taking out these chemicals. It's also discussed the topic with industry experts and advocacy organizations in an effort to make sure product quality is consistent during the changeover.

CVS has seen competition from the likes of Sephora and Ulta in this department, USA Today notes. "Most of our growth is coming from these new, indie cosmetic brands," according to Judy Sansone, senior vice president for the front store business and chief merchant.

This announcement comes as the company is doing a wide-scale store renovation, giving more space to healthy food and products and moving candy away from its traditional front counter location. The renovations will roll out to hundreds of stores by the end of next year, and is already in 800 of its nearly 10,000 locations.

"They're looking to do this because they want to remain relevant with their customers and be viewed as a local destination for healthy products and items and help fulfill their customers' health needs," CFRA Research analyst Joe Agnese told USA Today.

The company has made significant health moves in the past, notably its 2014 decision to no longer sell tobacco products, reports Fortune.