It seems like there’s something new to check our personal care products for every week. From benzene to other chemicals, our personal care products can be quietly filled with harmful ingredients. Recent research published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology found that more than 100 types of common consumer products contain one or more chemicals linked to cancer or reproductive and developmental problems. Many of the chemicals were found in personal care products.
The researchers pinpointed diethanolamine (DEA) as one of the most concerning chemicals. The carcinogen, banned from use in cosmetics in the European Union (E.U.) and Canada, was found in 40 items in the States. Items include shaving gels, soaps, lotions, hand sanitizers and hair products.
The preservative formaldehyde was also widespread. Another carcinogen prohibited in cosmetic use in the E.U. However, in the U.S. formaldehyde was found in 17 categories, including shampoo, other hair-care products, nail-care products, makeup and nail coatings.
Other concerning chemicals include N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone, ethylene oxide, methylene chloride and styrene. Check your product’s ingredient lists and consider replacing any products with these chemicals with a safer option.
