Statement by Jay Ansell, Vice President, Cosmetics Program, Personal Care Products Council, on Designer Drugs Being Erroneously Promoted as Bath Salts

WASHINGTON, Jan. 27, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Two designer drugs, mephedrone and methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV), are being sold over the Internet as "research chemicals," "plant food" or "bath salts." These fake products have nothing to do with real bath salts made by reputable health, cosmetic and personal care products companies. Real bath salts do not contain mephedrone, MDPV, or any other drug or drug-like substance.

"The recent news report about the illicit distribution of mephedrone and MDPV has caused significant confusion for consumers. These drugs are not approved for use in the U.S. and are related to chemicals, which are potentially dangerous, and have a high potential for abuse.

"Designer drugs like these are created specifically to get around existing drug laws, as in the case of the cannabis substitute Spice, sold as an exotic incense blend. Bath salts are the latest target for this type of exploitation.  

"It is unfortunate that recent news reports are confusing the sale of illicit drugs with fake names and the actual bath salts that are safely used and enjoyed by consumers worldwide.  Like all personal care products, authentic bath salts should be used only as directed."

For more information on cosmetic and personal care products and their ingredients, visit www.CosmeticsInfo.org.

Based in Washington, D.C., the Personal Care Products Council is the leading national trade association representing the global cosmetic and personal care products industry. Founded in 1894, the Council's more than 600 member companies manufacture, distribute, and supply the vast majority of finished personal care products marketed in the U.S. As the makers of a diverse range of products millions of consumers rely on every day, from sunscreens, toothpaste and shampoo to moisturizer, lipstick and fragrance, personal care products companies are global leaders committed to product safety, quality and innovation.

SOURCE Personal Care Products Council