Cancer-causing Chemical found in shampoos, lotions, soaps and popular personal care products Raises Alarm
Cancer-causing Chemical found in shampoos, lotions, soaps and popular personal care products Raises Alarm
New study links cancer-causing chemical to shampoos, lotions, soaps used widely by women—especially among Black and Latina communities.
A recent study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters has revealed that a significant number of everyday personal care products shampoos, lotions, body soaps, and even eyelash glue contain formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. The study focused on 70 Black and Latina women in Los Angeles and found that over 53% of participants used products containing formaldehyde-releasing chemicals, often daily.
This is especially concerning because formaldehyde and its releasers (such as DMDM hydantoin) are not always clearly labeled, making it hard for consumers to avoid them. Dr. Robin Dodson, the lead author of the study, warned that “repeated exposures like these can add up and cause serious harm,” particularly because these products are applied all over the body.
Key findings include:
- 58% of surveyed haircare products contained formaldehyde-releasing agents.
- The exposure was not limited to hair straighteners—products like shampoos, soaps, lotions, and eyelash glues were also affected.
- Black and Latina women, who are already disproportionately exposed to harmful beauty product ingredients, are at higher risk.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has labeled formaldehyde an “unreasonable risk” to human health. While the FDA proposed a ban in 2023, formaldehyde remains legal in many products sold across the country.
What You Can Do:
- Read ingredient labels carefully. Watch for chemicals like DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, imidazolidinyl urea, and diazolidinyl urea.
- Use apps like EWG’s Skin Deep or Yuka to scan products for safety.
- Choose certified non-toxic or fragrance-free brands that disclose full ingredient lists.
- Advocate for stricter regulations by supporting clean beauty legislation and petitions.
This study is part of a growing movement to bring attention to the toxic ingredients still present in beauty and personal care products, especially those marketed toward women of color.
