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Have Contacted Lots Of Companies For Lists


tiredofdoctors

Recommended Posts

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

I'm on a mission to find out about what I'm putting on my skin -- even Bare Escentuals, which I thought was completely gluten-free, has gluten in their skin revver-upper lotion. I'm sorely disappointed! I love their stuff!

Here's what I've gotten back so far:

The Revlon Consumer Information Center has received your comments from our

website. Thank you for taking the time to contact us. Our response time to

your inquiry may be several days. We appreciate your patience and

understanding.

Your reference number is 001581197A.

Please do not respond to this acknowledgement, but if you have a question

concerning your email, please contact us at our toll free number 1-800-473-8566.

The Almay Consumer Information Center has received your comments from our

website. Thank you for taking the time to contact us. Our response time to

your inquiry may be several days. We appreciate your patience and

understanding.

Your reference number is 001581196A.

Please do not respond to this acknowledgement, but if you have a question

concerning your email, please contact us at our toll free number 1-800-473-8566.

Haven't heard from any others, and as you can see, these are NOT lists! will keep you posted. I've e-mailed Proctor & Gamble, Colgate Palmolive, Revlon, Almay, Maybelline, Max Factor, Bonne Bell (for the teenagers) Covergirl, Pantene (because they have been listed as gluten-free), Lauren Hutton collection and Bare Escentuals. I asked for lists of all products which are gluten free. We'll see what happens! I know that ALL Estee Lauder companies (EL, Clinique, Mac, Bobbie Brown, Prescriptives, Loreal) will not guarantee that any of their products are gluten-free. At least that's what they told me about 5 months ago.

Let's see what happens . . . Lynne :rolleyes:


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elfkin Contributor

Good luck with Procter and Gamble! Check out my Bounty post! Grrrrrrrr! :angry:

elonwy Enthusiast

The latest Pantene info I have states that thier frangrance *may* have gluten in it. I'm switching to all Dove, because I know I can read thier labels. If they have something that is a plant extract, the plant will be listed in parentheses after the ingredient, or wheat, barley, oats will be clearly labeled. PITA, but I can deal with that.

Elonwy

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

Well, got my first reply -- again, it's a game of CMA, but I did include my response to them. I think I'm just going to copy it and use it as my pat answer to all these companies!

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: "caringforyou@custhelp.com" <caringforyou@custhelp.com>

Reply-To: "caringforyou@custhelp.com" <caringforyou@custhelp.com>

To: bodyworxinc@hotmail.com

Subject: Thanks for contacting Pantene. [incident: 060207-000370]

Date: Tue, 7 Feb 2006 12:00:49 -0500 (EST)

>

>Subject

>---------------------------------------------------------------

>Please forward to me, via e-mail at bodyworxinc@hotmail.com, a list of your p...

>

>

>Discussion Thread

>---------------------------------------------------------------

>Response (RightNow Administrator) - 02/07/2006 12:00 PM

>Thanks for contacting Pantene, Lynne.

>

>We want to give you clear information regarding the use of all of our beauty care products, including Pantene. If wheat and/or gluten aren't directly added to a product by us, these ingredients won't be listed on our packages. Like many companies, we often purchase the scents for fragranced products from outside suppliers, and the components of these substances are proprietary information belonging to those companies. Therefore it's possible that a very small amount (generally parts per million) of gluten may be present.

>

>We sought advice from physicians; they told us it would be very unlikely a person with Celiac disease would have a reaction from a trace amount of gluten coming into contact with his skin or hair. This is because wheat, rye, barley and/or gluten generally cause symptoms when they're ingested. Since our beauty care products are designed to be used externally on the skin, their use shouldn't be an issue for someone with this disease.

>

>Since gluten sensitivity can vary among people, it would be best if you consulted with your physician about the use of all types of consumable goods, if you haven't already. You might even consider using one of our fragrance free products that doesn't list gluten or wheat extracts on the label.

>

>Thanks again for getting in touch with us.

>

>Susan

>Pantene Team

>

>P.S. Want soft, smooth, revitalized skin? Introducing Olay Regenerist Microdermabrasion & Peel System. This Olay Regenerist System has two powerful steps that actively work together to give you a combination of a microdermabrasion and mini-peel treatment. Still, it's gentle enough to use up to two times a week! Olay...love the skin you're in.

>

>Auto-Response - 02/07/2006 01:30 AM

>Title: Purchase P&G products for my business

>Link: Open Original Shared Link

>

>Title: Hurricane Katrina help

>Link: Open Original Shared Link

>

>Title: Same ingredients-what's the difference?

>Link: Open Original Shared Link

My Response:

Just a "heads up" with regard to the gluten issue -- some people with Dermatitis Herpatiformis -- a very painful skin condition -- can react to topical gluten. I think, that I, along with 7,000 (at least) other people who have an autoimmune condition that reacts to gluten, would appreciate it if you delved further into what your suppliers are sending you. I think that in some cases "ignorance is bliss", but what happens if a parent is washing their child's hair with your shampoo, and the child gets a gulp of soapy water? To say that "well, our supplier might have caused his / her flare up" sure is a pretty thin excuse. To let you know: celiac disease is not the only condition related to gluten intolerance. In my case, gluten destroys the perkinje cells in my body -- they are located in the cerebelllum of my brain, in my retinas and in my peripheral nerves -- and they do not regenerate. So every time I come in contact with gluten, another part of my functional ability goes away forever.

I appreciate your prompt response, but urge you to communicate further with your suppliers to ensure that your products are gluten-free. I can assure you that, should you choose to do this, you will have a large number of extremely devoted consumers. Thank you again for your time and consideration . . . .

Lynne Ellingsworth-Wagner, PT

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

Got another "blanket" reply, and sent the same response as in the previous one, except I changed the "shampoo" part to "what if a person uses your foundation or lipstick and it contains gluten?". Here's another CMA:

Subject

---------------------------------------------------------------

Max Factor US website Contact Message

Discussion Thread

---------------------------------------------------------------

Response (RightNow Administrator) - 02/07/2006 11:37 AM

Thanks for contacting Max Factor, Lynne.

We know Celiac is a serious disease, so we want to give you clear information

regarding the use of our beauty care products. If wheat and/or gluten aren't

directly added to a product by us, these ingredients won't be listed on our

packages. Like many companies, we often purchase the scents for fragranced

products from outside suppliers, and the components of these substances are

proprietary information belonging to those companies. Therefore it's possible

that a very small amount (generally parts per million) of gluten may be present.

We sought advice from physicians; they told us it would be very unlikely a

person with Celiac disease would have a reaction from a trace amount of gluten

coming into contact with his skin or hair. This is because wheat, rye, barley

and/or gluten generally cause symptoms when they're ingested. Since our beauty

care products are designed to be used externally on the skin, their use

shouldn't be an issue for someone with this disease.

Since gluten sensitivity can vary among people, it would be best if you

consulted with your physician about the use of all types of consumable goods, if

you haven't already. You might even consider using one of our fragrance free

products that doesn't list gluten or wheat extracts on the label.

Thanks again for getting in touch with us. I hope this response has been

helpful to you. For more information about Celiac, you may want to check out

Open Original Shared Link and Open Original Shared Link

Thanks for stopping by.

Melissa

Max Factor Team

P. S. Looking for the perfect gift for your favorite new mom or mom-to-be?

Pampers Gift Certificates make gift-giving easy. Order one today at

pampers.com/giftcr

Customer - 02/07/2006 01:10 AM

From: bodyworxinc@hotmail.com

Reply To:

To: pg@custhelp.com

Country = United States

Email = bodyworxinc@hotmail.com

Age = 35-44

Language = English

Content = "Please forward to me, via e-mail, a list of all Max Factor products

which are gluten-free. Thanks for your help, Lynne Wagner"

Title =

FName = Lynne

LName = Wagner

Address1 =

Address2 =

City =

State =

Postal =

Phone =

Brand =

Size =

Contact = Null

Source = www.maxfactor.com

Question Reference #060207-000353

---------------------------------------------------------------

Product Level 1: Max Factor

Date Created: 02/07/2006 01:10 AM

Last Updated: 02/07/2006 11:37 AM

[---001:002223:17885---]

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

Oh Boy, this one is great -- and I'm furious. So, they got a little different response:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

From: "P&G Consumer Relations" <pg@custhelp.com>

Reply-To: "P&G Consumer Relations" <pg@custhelp.com>

To: bodyworxinc@hotmail.com

Subject: Thanks for contacting P&G. [incident: 060207-000356]

Date: Tue, 7 Feb 2006 11:35:21 -0500 (EST)

>

>Subject

>---------------------------------------------------------------

>Please forward to me, via e-mail, a list of all P&G products which are gluten...

>

>

>Discussion Thread

>---------------------------------------------------------------

>Response (RightNow Administrator) - 02/07/2006 11:35 AM

>Thanks for contacting us, Lynne.

>

>I certainly appreciate your interest in our products' ingredient information. In our Consumer Relations office, we're provided with the same ingredient information that you see on product packages. For that reason - and for your safety - we request physicians write to us with very specific information so that we can have it researched as thoroughly as possible.

>

>Your doctor may send a written request on office letterhead to:

>

> Consumer Relations

> PO Box 599

> Cincinnati OH 45201

> Attn:

>

>Be sure to clearly indicate the full product names, fragrance, color/shade as written on the products which interest you.

>

>Once we receive your doctor's request, we'll research your inquiry and hope to provide a response in approximately four weeks.

>

>Please understand that we have your best interest at heart by following a strict process for ingredient information requests. If your doctor is anything like mine, he or she will be more than happy to send the letter.

>

>We appreciate your patience.

>

>Amanda

>P&G Team

>

>Customer - 02/07/2006 01:15 AM

>Please forward to me, via e-mail, a list of all P&G products which are gluten-free. Thank you for your help, Lynne Wagner

>

>Auto-Response - 02/07/2006 01:15 AM

>Title: Purchase P&G products for my business

>Link: Open Original Shared Link

>

>Title: Hurricane Katrina help

>Link: Open Original Shared Link

>

>Title: Locating a P&G employee

>Link: Open Original Shared Link

>

>

>

>

>

>Question Reference #060207-000356

>---------------------------------------------------------------

> Product Level 1: Corporate

> Category Level 1: General Company Information

> Date Created: 02/07/2006 01:15 AM

> Last Updated: 02/07/2006 11:35 AM

>

>

>[---001:001897:44627---]

My response:

I find it very distressing, at best, that you need a letter on Physician's letterhead for one specific product to determine if it is gluten-free or not. I would think that, as a consumer, I would be able to gather information from you with the same amount of importance and respect that you would show a physician.

I am sorely disappointed in your answer, I can forward to you a copy -- on my physician's prescription pad -- a statement that I must maintain a gluten-free status. This physician happens to be a neurologist. You see, not all gluten intolerance -- an autoimmune disease -- affects the small intestines and bowel. Gluten, and the antibodies which my body produces against it, cross react with other antibodies which I produce. The result of this is that, it is slowly destroying the perkinje cells in my body. They happen to lie predominantly in the cerebellum of the brain, the retinas of the eyes and the peripheral nerves. They don't regenerate. So you see, each time that I come in contact with gluten -- maybe I've washed my hands with gluten-containing soap and put my finger to my mouth or eyes -- another part of my brain, my eyes and my nerves are destroyed, and my functional ability continues to decrease. I'm in a wheelchair now . . . should this continue on to my brainstem, ultimately, it could potentially cause death. Perhaps, now, you see the reason that I am insulted, at minimum, by your answer.

There are at least 7,000 of us out there -- and that number is miniscule compared to those who are actually diagnosed and just haven't been vocal. I can assure you, however, that I will post your degrading answer on the Celiac forum's message board so that they, too can see the indifference which you obviously have with regard to consumer health issues. I can also tell you that, in the future, I will no longer purchase Proctor & Gamble Products, nor anything from your subsidiary companies, and I will urge all others who read the forum, and those I know to do the same.

Lynne Ellingsworth-Wagner, PT

elfkin Contributor

Good for you! I got the same insulting answer from them today when I had sent in a question. I am so glad that you responded as you did. I sent them a scathing letter as well. I wish I had a list of P&G products so I would know not to buy any of them, ever! Their response if ridiculous at best. I hope others will write in and get them to see how offensive their position on this is!


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tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

Typically, in VERY SMALL PRINT, at the bottom of a product are the words "a subsidiary of . . . . " That's how I often know. I can tell you that Max Factor, Oil of Olay & Pantene are subsidiaries -- that's what I know so far. Will keep the thing going -- I'm on a mission!

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

This is by far the best response I have gotten -- it was back in October -- but I must say that Neutrogena is extremely consumer-friendly:

Thank you for contacting Neutrogena.

First of all, please accept our apologies for not answering your question to our website feedback before now. We have been experiencing technological difficulty with our website and were not able to receive emails sent to us from the feedback section until today. We are very sorry that you had to wait so long for an answer.

We maintain a list of products free of wheat gluten.

For ingredient listings, please see the product package or call our Information Center toll free at 1-800-582-4048. They will be able to send you a list of ingredients and help you if you need information beyond that. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Eastern Time.

Thank you so much for visiting our website at www.neutrogena.com and please visit us often, as our website is frequently updated with new products and added features.

<<Gluten Free List.xls>>

Neutrogena Gluten Free (Wheat Free)

Updated 07/18/05

Active Breathable Sunblock SPF 30

Active Breathable Sunblock SPF 45

Advanced Solutions Acne Mark Eliminating Peel

Advanced Solutions Acne Therapy System

Advanced Solutions Facial Peel

Advanced Solutions Skin Transforming Complex Daily SPF 15 Moisturizer

Advanced Solutions Skin Transforming Complex Nightly Renewal Cream

After Sun Treatment

Alcohol-Free Antiseptic Cleanser (Discontinued)

Alcohol-Free Toner

Anti-Cellulite Treatment

Anti-Residue Shampoo

Blackhead Eliminating 2-in-1 Foaming Pads

Blackhead Eliminating Astringent

Blackhead Eliminating Daily Scrub

Blackhead Eliminating Treatment Mask

Body Clear Body Lotion (Discontinued)

Body Clear Body Scrub

Body Clear Body Wash

Body Emulsion

Body Lotion

Body Oil

Build- A- Tan

Clean Conditioners- All

Clean For Color- Color Defending Foam Foam (Discontinued)

Clean Replenishing Instant Shine Detangler (Discontinued)

Clean Shampoos- All

Cleansing and Makeup Removing Towelettes

Clear Pore Cleanser/Mask

Clear Pore Oil Controlling Astringent

Clear Pore Shine Control Gel (Discontinued)

Clear Pore Treatment

Combination Skin Moisture

Conditioner for Permed/Color Treated Hair (Discontinued)

Deep Clean Astringent

Deep Clean Body Scrub Bar

Deep Clean Cleanser

Deep Clean Gentle Scrub

Deep Clean Invigorating Cleanser/ Mask

Deep Clean Invigorating Scrub

Deep Clean Invigorating Self Foaming Cleansing Pads

Deep Clean Mask

Detangling Conditioner (Discontinued)

Extra Gentle Cleanser

Foot Cream

Fresh Body Herbal Body Wash

Fresh Finish Loose Powder/Healthy Skin Loose Powder

Fresh Finish Pressed Powder/Healthy Skin Pressed Powder

Fresh Foaming Cleanser

Hand Cream

Healthy Defense Daily Moisturizer SPF 30- All

Healthy Defense Eye Cream SPF 30

Healthy Defense Protective Powder SPF 30

Healthy Defense Sheer Bronzer SPF 30 (Discontinued)

Healthy Defense Sheer Makeup SPF 30 (Disctontinued)

Healthy Defense Sunblock Spray SPF 30+

Healthy Defense Sunblock Stick SPF 30+

Healthy Defense Trio

Healthy Defense UVA/UVB Block SPF 30 + / SPF 45

Healthy Radiance Exfoliating Wash

Healthy Radiance Eye Cream

Healthy Radiance Moisturizer SPF 15

Healthy Scalp Shampoo

Healthy Skin Anti Wrinkle Anti Blemish Cleanser

Healthy Skin Anti Wrinkle Anti Blemish Cream

Healthy Skin Anti Wrinkle Anti Blemish Scrub

Healthy Skin Anti Wrinkle Cream

Healthy Skin Anti Wrinkle Intensive Eye Cream

Healthy Skin Anti Wrinkle Intensive Night Cream

Healthy Skin Anti Wrinkle Intensive Serum

Healthy Skin Blends Natural Radiance Bronzer

Healthy Skin Blends Sheer Highlighting Blush

Healthy Skin BlendsTranslucent Oil- Control Powder

Healthy Skin Cream Powder Makeup SPF 20

Healthy Skin Enhancer

Healthy Skin Eye Cream

Healthy Skin Face Lotion

Healthy Skin Face Lotion Sensitive Skin/Delicate Skin

Healthy Skin Face Lotion SPF 15

Healthy Skin Liquid Makeup SPF 20

Healthy Skin Smoothing Stick

Healthy Skin Visibly Even Daily SPF 15 Moisturizer

Healthy Skin Visibly Even Exfoliating Body Wash

Healthy Skin Visibly Even Exfoliating Cleanser

Instant Lip Remedy

Instant Nail Enhancer

Intensified Day Moisture SPF 15

Intensified Eye Moisture (Discontinued)

Light Night Cream

Lip Boost Intense Moisture Lipstick SPF 20

Lip Boost Intense Moisture Therapy

Lip Moisturizer SPF 15

Lip Nutrition- All

Liquid Neutrogena

Makeup Correcting Stick

Makeup Correcting Stick

Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

Maximum Strength Oil Controlling Pads

Moisture Boosting Body Wash

Moisture for Sensitive Skin

Moisture Shine Tinted Lip Balm- All

Moisture SPF 15

Moisture SPF 15 Sheer Tint

MoistureShine Lip Gloss

New Hands

Oil Free Acne Mask/ Scrub

Oil Free Eye Makeup Remover

Oil-Absorbing Acne Mask (Discontinued)

Oil-Free Acne Wash

On the Spot Acne Patch

On the Spot Acne Treatment Tinted

On the Spot Acne Treatment Vanishing Formula

On The Spot Blemish Wand

Overnight Lip Therapy

Pore Refining Cleanser

Pore Refining Cream

Pore Refining Cream SPF 15

Pore Refining Mask

Pore Refining Mattifier (Discontinued)

Pore Refining Toner

Radiance Boost Eye Cream

Rainbath Dry Oil Spray

Rainbath Moisturizing Body Mist (Discontinued)

Rainbath Shower & Bath Gel- All

Rapid Clear Acne Defense Face Lotion

Rapid Clear Gel

Razor Defense Daily Face Scrub

Razor Defense Face Lotion

Sensitive Skin Solutions Alcohol Free Toner

Sensitive Skin Solutions Cleansing Wash - Combination Skin

Sensitive Skin Solutions Cream Cleanser - Dry Skin

Sensitive Skin Solutions Oil-Free Foaming Cleanser - Oily Skin

Shimmer Sheers (all shades)

Skin Clearing After Shave (Discontinued)

Skin Clearing Compact Foundation

Skin Clearing Concealer

Skin Clearing Face Bar (Discontinued)

Skin Clearing Face Wash

Skin Clearing Liquid Makeup

Skin Clearing Moisturizer

Skin Clearing Pressed Powder

Skin Clearing Targeted Acne Treatment (Discontinued)

Skin Smoothing Body Lotion

Skin Soothing Eye Tints

Skin Soothing Under Eye Corrector

SkinClearing Clean Tint

SkinClearing Shave Gel

SkinClearing Trio

Soft Color Blush

Soothing Relief Anti-Itch Moisturizer

Sunless Tanning Lotion- All

T/Gel Conditioner

T/Gel Overnight Dandruff Treatment

T/Gel Shampoos- All

T/Sal Maximum Strength Shampoo

Transparent Facial Bars- All

Transparent Sunblock Gel SPF 30 (Discontinued)

Triple Moisture Active Soothing Conditioner

Triple Moisture Active Soothing Shampoo

Triple Moisture Cream Lather Shampoo

Triple Moisture Deep Conditioner

Triple Moisture Deep Recovery Hair Mask

Triple Moisture Healing Shine Serum

Triple Moisture Pure Strength Oil Therapy

Triple Moisture Sheer Hydration Leave- In Foam

Triple Moisture Silk- Touch Leave-In Cream

Triple Protect Face Gel

Triple Protect Face Lotion SPF 20

Ultra Sheer Dry Touch Sunblock SPF 30/ SPF 45

Under Cover Concealer Stick

Visibly Even Natural Look Makeup

Visibly Firm Eye Cream

Visibly Firm Eye Treatment Concealer

Visibly Firm Face Lotion SPF 20

Visibly Firm Lift Serum

Visibly Firm Moisture Makeup

Visibly Firm Night Cream

Visibly Younger Hand Cream

bluelotus Contributor

Tiredofdoctors, you rock! That's right girl, you kick some ass!

I will be emailing them for you too (as promised in a different thread). These suckers won't know what hit 'em!

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

Well, got my reply from one of the Pantene - here's their response -- and mine:

Response (RightNow Administrator) - 02/08/2006 08:21 AM

Thanks for writing, Lynne.

Our consumers mean a great deal to us, and we're sorry you were unhappy with the

response you received when you contacted us. Our goal is to provide excellent

service to all consumers who reach us, and we appreciate your feedback. It's

through thoughtful consumers like you who help us make improvements in areas

needed. I'll be sure to share your report with our Beauty Care Department and

Suppliers, so they may be able to look into this.

Thanks again for sharing your concerns.

Jillian

P&G Beauty Care Team

P.S. Introducing Always with Soft Cotton-Like Dri-Weave. Feel the Softness now.

Love the Protection Always.

I think it's a little insulting that I'm writing you with regard to the fact that you can't give me answers about ingredients in your products which could potentially not only threaten my functional mobility, but my life, and you put an advertisement at the bottom of your reply.

Lynne Ellingsworth-Wagner, PT

eeyor-fan Contributor

If you go back in my post history you will see quite a few of these company responses from November and December 2005.

Hugs

Bridget

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

From Bonne Bell:

Dear Lynne,

The only products that Bonne Bell makes that contain glutens are the Original Lip Smackers (chapstick type container), Cosmic Lip Smackers, Kool-Aid Lip Smacker, Clip ‘n Go and Sun Smackers. All other products are gluten free. If you have any additional questions about any of our products, please do not hesitate to contact the customer service here at The Bonne Bell Company.

"Lynne Ellingsworth" <bodyworxinc@hotmail.com>

02/07/2006 01:12 AM

To customerservice@bonnebell.com

cc

Subject all products

My reply:

Thank you very much for your prompt and precise reply. Given some of the responses I have received, you have no idea how much I appreciate it!

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

And from Revlon . . . .

From: <rachel.evans@revlon.com>

To: <bodyworxinc@hotmail.com>

Subject: Re: In response to your comments from the Revlon website, 001581197A

Date: Thu, 9 Feb 2006 15:01:12 -0500

>Mrs. Lynne Wagner

>9210 Old Six Mile Ln

>Louisville, KY 40299-1627

>

>

>Dear Mrs. Wagner:

>

>We have received your comments from the Revlon website and wish to thank you for your interest in our products.

>

>Unfortunately, because of the way cosmetic ingredients are made and transported, we cannot guarantee that a product is gluten-free.

>

>If we can be of further assistance in helping you locate your favorite products, please call our Consumer Information Center toll-free at 1-800-473-8566. Our hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM until 5:00 PM. Any of our representatives will be glad to assist you.

>

>Sincerely,

>Rachel Evans

>Sr. Consumer Services Representative

>Revlon Consumer Information

My Response:

Dear Ms. Evans:

I cannot begin to tell you how disappointing your response to my question is. You see, I am asking a myriad of companies the same question, and am posting their responses on the Celiac website. The inability of your company to tell me whether your products will cause me ill health is certainly disappointing, given that, prior to my diagnosis, I enjoyed using your products immensely.

Celiac disease affects a large number of our population. It is a type of "gluten intolerance", which is an autoimmune disease. The body begins producing antibodies to gliadin, a component of gluten. In the case of individuals with Celiac disease, it wreaks hell on their small intestines and bowel system; in my particular case, it cross-reacts with other antibodies which my body produces, causing damage to the cerebellum of my brain, my retinas and the peripheral nerves of my body. None of this is reversible.

Given that I am already in a wheelchair because of this condition, it appears as though I will be unable to use any of your products. I cannot afford to take a chance that by using products for which the manufacturer will not take responsibility to ensure the public's health, I could possibly continue to damage my body permanently and further decrease my functional mobility.

Should your company become more conscious of the necessity to become more informed for your consumers, please feel free to contact me, and I will post that response, as well.

Judyin Philly Enthusiast

[should your company become more conscious of the necessity to become more informed for your consumers, please feel free to contact me, and I will post that response, as well.

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

Happy to help. I'm used to writing letters because of my profession -- half of the work is writing! :P My friends tell me that I'm the "Queen of BS". They have also told me that "I can tell someone basically to go to hell, and make them think that they're going to enjoy the ride." So I think that's what I'm telling these companies. Hope they enjoy the ride :D Will keep going until I've exhausted every company I can badger! Hugs to you, too! . . . . Lynne

pixiegirl Enthusiast

I just wanted to say that we really all need to keep this up now and then.... the calling and letter writing. I do it too... because as more and more people are diagnosed with Celiac and various other allergies it will become more important to companies to find out what is in their products. The more pressure we put on them the more inclined they will be to list what's in their products.

I'm sure we all realize how easy it would be for Proctor and Gamble or Revlon to contact their suppliers and find out what's in the fragrance or how about going with more unscented products since a lot of us don't even like scented products. This is really very simple for them to "fix". However they won't do it until there is enough people and enough pressure to do so.

I thought I read that 3 million people have in the USA have Celiac and who knows how many countless others have a gluten sensitivity and/or wheat allergy... that 3 million number is growing every day and as it does most companies will realize that they don't want to exclude xx million potential customers.

So I just wanted to say thanks for doing this and I hope we all keep it up! (off my soapbox now to go write some letters)

Susan

jerseyangel Proficient

Lynne--a big thank you from me, too :) . I call or e-mail companies quite frequently. I know how time consuming that can be, and add to that, the time it takes you to post the info. The more they hear from us, the better.

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

Happy to do it! It's the least I can do to help everyone who has been SO KIND to me during my "learning curve". The help and support I have gotten on this forum has been unbelievable.

From a personal standpoint, I'm infuriated that these companies can justify their actions by claiming ignorance. EVERYONE should take responsibility for their actions -- acts of commission or omission -- and that means corporations, too. I just think that they need to stop hiding behind their corporate curtains and start making things right. We'll see how many others I can hound .. . . . Talk to you soon! :P Lynne

floridanative Community Regular

Lynne - thanks so much for all your hard work. I agree that these companies could find out if there is gluten in their products or not. If other companies like Neutrogena, Lumene and Bonnie Bell for goodness sakes can do it, then you bet someone as big as P&G can too!

They (P&G) don't seem to care about our business right now but one of two things will happen. Eventually they will do what they need to in order to keep us as customers, or they won't and therefore will feel the pain in a decrease in sales. Now I know it will be only a slight decrease (if we boycotted everything in their lines) but trust me - these companies are greedy and even the slightest drop in sales makes them scramble to figure out how to bring the numbers back up. I personally know a former director at P&G so I feel I know what I'm talking about with regards to them specifically.

Rock on lady!! B)

Rusla Enthusiast

Way to go Lynne, thanks a lot. I don't have a lot of time to do the things I like which includes writing a lot of these companies. Some I have written to do not write back or send snotty messages like P & G.

Part of my business involves makeup and other stuff. Much of the make up NAO and Artistry both have numerous things that do not contain Wheat or gluten in them, in case anyone needs to know.

The major problem even for me is to find shampoo and conditioner that does not contain some form of wheat. The only one I have found so far is Joico.

Now perfecting making my own shampoo and deoderant, just as I have done with bar soap and lotions I make that are wheat and gluten free. I started doing this because of my own allergies before the dx. This way I know what it is in it and don't have to search and destroy. I am now going into making my own makeup when I get back from Jamaica.

Edward Newbie

I thought only the ingestion of the gluten containing foods mattered and now what you put on your skin.

It's great that the companies are giving you and honest response and not just saying that they know for sure. If they can't say for sure, I usually stay away from their products.

I'm on a mission to find out about what I'm putting on my skin -- even Bare Escentuals, which I thought was completely gluten-free, has gluten in their skin revver-upper lotion. I'm sorely disappointed! I love their stuff!

Here's what I've gotten back so far:

The Revlon Consumer Information Center has received your comments from our

website. Thank you for taking the time to contact us. Our response time to

your inquiry may be several days. We appreciate your patience and

understanding.

Your reference number is 001581197A.

Please do not respond to this acknowledgement, but if you have a question

concerning your email, please contact us at our toll free number 1-800-473-8566.

The Almay Consumer Information Center has received your comments from our

website. Thank you for taking the time to contact us. Our response time to

your inquiry may be several days. We appreciate your patience and

understanding.

Your reference number is 001581196A.

Please do not respond to this acknowledgement, but if you have a question

concerning your email, please contact us at our toll free number 1-800-473-8566.

Haven't heard from any others, and as you can see, these are NOT lists! will keep you posted. I've e-mailed Proctor & Gamble, Colgate Palmolive, Revlon, Almay, Maybelline, Max Factor, Bonne Bell (for the teenagers) Covergirl, Pantene (because they have been listed as gluten-free), Lauren Hutton collection and Bare Escentuals. I asked for lists of all products which are gluten free. We'll see what happens! I know that ALL Estee Lauder companies (EL, Clinique, Mac, Bobbie Brown, Prescriptives, Loreal) will not guarantee that any of their products are gluten-free. At least that's what they told me about 5 months ago.

Let's see what happens . . . Lynne :rolleyes:

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

Usually it is what you ingest -- as far as causing a systemic reaction, it needs to be ingested. Gluten molecules are too large to get into your system transdermally. My thought, though, is -- if I put lotion on my face, and I touch my face & put my hand to my mouth, or I get the lotion too close to my lips, or if I put on lipstick that contains gluten, then I'm in trouble. Actually, I was using Aveda lipstick -- and it contains gluten. So here I was putting lipstick on that I liked the taste (it had peppermint oil in it), so I was obviously eating it off during the day -- I know I had to re-apply -- hence, I was continually glutened without knowing it.

My thought with regard to things like shampoo -- what if a parent is washing a child's hair, the shampoo contains gluten, and the child gets a gulp of soapy water? I've accidentally gotten "shampoo water" while I'm showering -- especially when my husband is yelling in to ask me a question and I try to answer! (which I know is stupid, but sometimes I just am . . . :P )

HERE'S THE BIG NEWS!!!!! PROCTOR & GAMBLE DEEMED ME "WORTHY" OF HAVING INFORMATION REGARDING SOME OF THEIR PRODUCTS!!!! I MUST BE VERY IMPORTANT :lol::lol::lol: !!! Here's their reply:

Response (RightNow Administrator) - 02/10/2006 01:13 PM

Hi Lynne,

I'm sorry you're not happy with our reply, but we don't have a list of all P&G

products that are gluten-free. I'll be sure to share your comment with our

management. For reference, below is are some of the products that are

gluten-free. However, if a product you use is not on this list, then a letter

from your doctor will be needed.

Folgers Coffee

All Tide, Gain, Era, Downy and Bounce

Crest Toothpaste

Puffs

Charmin

Bounty

Swiffer

Dawn

Cascade

I hope this information is helpful.

Karen

P&G Team

Here's my response:

Thank you for providing me with information, albeit minimal, with regard to Proctor & Gamble products. I also appreciate the fact that you are contacting management to help them improve their consumer relations -- and to make them aware of the fact that gluten intolerance is larger than most people think. My goal is to ensure that my health, as well as the health of others, is not compromised due to gluten-containing products. I will post this on the forum with the responses from the other companies which I have contacted. Thank you again for the additional information.

Lynne Ellingsworth-Wagner, PT

Edward Newbie

Very good points. Nice to see P&G taking this seriously.

Usually it is what you ingest -- as far as causing a systemic reaction, it needs to be ingested. Gluten molecules are too large to get into your system transdermally. My thought, though, is -- if I put lotion on my face, and I touch my face & put my hand to my mouth, or I get the lotion too close to my lips, or if I put on lipstick that contains gluten, then I'm in trouble. Actually, I was using Aveda lipstick -- and it contains gluten. So here I was putting lipstick on that I liked the taste (it had peppermint oil in it), so I was obviously eating it off during the day -- I know I had to re-apply -- hence, I was continually glutened without knowing it.

My thought with regard to things like shampoo -- what if a parent is washing a child's hair, the shampoo contains gluten, and the child gets a gulp of soapy water? I've accidentally gotten "shampoo water" while I'm showering -- especially when my husband is yelling in to ask me a question and I try to answer! (which I know is stupid, but sometimes I just am . . . :P )

HERE'S THE BIG NEWS!!!!! PROCTOR & GAMBLE DEEMED ME "WORTHY" OF HAVING INFORMATION REGARDING SOME OF THEIR PRODUCTS!!!! I MUST BE VERY IMPORTANT :lol::lol::lol: !!! Here's their reply:

Response (RightNow Administrator) - 02/10/2006 01:13 PM

Hi Lynne,

I'm sorry you're not happy with our reply, but we don't have a list of all P&G

products that are gluten-free. I'll be sure to share your comment with our

management. For reference, below is are some of the products that are

gluten-free. However, if a product you use is not on this list, then a letter

from your doctor will be needed.

Folgers Coffee

All Tide, Gain, Era, Downy and Bounce

Crest Toothpaste

Puffs

Charmin

Bounty

Swiffer

Dawn

Cascade

I hope this information is helpful.

Karen

P&G Team

Here's my response:

Thank you for providing me with information, albeit minimal, with regard to Proctor & Gamble products. I also appreciate the fact that you are contacting management to help them improve their consumer relations -- and to make them aware of the fact that gluten intolerance is larger than most people think. My goal is to ensure that my health, as well as the health of others, is not compromised due to gluten-containing products. I will post this on the forum with the responses from the other companies which I have contacted. Thank you again for the additional information.

Lynne Ellingsworth-Wagner, PT

tiredofdoctors Enthusiast

I guess the thought of other people seeing their response on the internet made them take a second look at their policy. Hmmmmm......

Rusla -- I think it's great that you're developing your own shampoo! I started making my own lotion, lip balm, bath oil, bath salts, etc. years ago -- before I was diagnosed with gluten intolerance, just because I liked mine better. I never tried soap or shampoo. I think the idea of developing your own make-up is fantastic -- of course, you need to let us know when you start marketing your stuff so we can purchase!

Well, must get working again on my mission . . . . Onward!!!!!!!!!!! . . . . . . :lol:

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