Why Is Formaldehyde Used in Cosmetics and How to Shop for Formaldehyde-Free Products

We all love to look our best, feel confident, and express ourselves through the makeup and cosmetics we use every day.

However, did you know that many cosmetics contain formaldehyde? This chemical is often included as a preservative, extending the shelf life of makeup products. While this might sound beneficial, formaldehyde can have negative impacts on your health. Put your best face forward without coming face-to-face with formaldehyde. Let’s take a closer look at why formaldehyde is used in cosmetics and how to look for cosmetics without formaldehyde in them.  

What Is the Purpose of Formaldehyde in Cosmetics?

Many cosmetics have high water content, which leaves them prone to the growth of harmful bacteria, yeast, and mold. Due to its antimicrobial properties, formaldehyde was a preservative that was once widely used in cosmetics. 

Formaldehyde itself is rarely used directly in cosmetics today due to its well-documented health risks, including its classification as a known carcinogen and allergen [1]. The EU has banned the use of formaldehyde in products [2]. 

Currently, formaldehyde in cosmetics isn’t banned in the United States. However, many companies have opted to remove formaldehyde from their products. While commendable, they’ve replaced formaldehyde with alternatives that contaminate products with…you guessed it, formaldehyde!

What Are Formaldehyde Alternatives and How Do They Produce Formaldehyde? 

Choosing makeup that aligns with your health-conscious values can be a challenging task, especially given concerns about certain preservatives that may release formaldehyde over time. Many people love wearing makeup but are understandably wary of potential health risks associated with these substances. 

To get ahead of this curve, many companies have looked for alternatives to formaldehyde in cosmetics. However, their replacements aren’t the best choices for our health. Instead, these replacements may release formaldehyde. 

When selecting makeup, look for brands that prioritize transparency and clearly label their ingredients. Many companies now highlight their use of safer preservatives on their packaging and websites, allowing you to make confident, informed choices about cosmetic purchases. 

How Do You Know If Formaldehyde Is In Cosmetics?

Reading labels and being an informed shopper is crucial for avoiding unwanted chemicals like formaldehyde in your cosmetics. However, manufacturers don’t always make it easy. Formaldehyde isn’t always listed plainly on ingredient lists. Instead, it can be hidden under various other names, making it challenging to identify.

Some common names for formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives you might find on labels include:

• Quaternium-15
• DMDM Hydantoin
• Imidazolidinyl Urea
• Diazolidinyl Urea
• Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate
• Bronopol (2-Bromo-2-Nitropropane-1,3-Diol)
• Glyoxal

If you see these ingredients on a product label, consider avoiding the product and looking for formaldehyde-free alternatives. It's essential to prioritize your health and well-being by choosing products that do not contain potentially harmful preservatives. Being an informed and cautious shopper empowers you to make safer choices for your beauty routine.

Is the Same Formaldehyde Used for Embalming Used In Cosmetics?

The formaldehyde used in embalming and cosmetics serves a similar preservative function, but it’s important to note the context and concentration differences. 

In embalming, formaldehyde is used in high concentrations to preserve human remains effectively. In cosmetics, however, formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are used in much lower concentrations to prevent microbial growth and extend shelf life.

As an informed consumer, it's empowering to read labels and understand the ingredients in your products. If you prefer to avoid formaldehyde in your cosmetics, look for alternatives with natural preservatives or those labeled as formaldehyde-free. 

Non-Toxic Alternatives to Formaldehyde for Cosmetic Preservatives

When reading labels, it’s helpful to know the “good ingredients” as well as the “bad ingredients.” 

Here are some low-tox alternatives to formaldehyde that can be used as preservatives in cosmetics: 

• Caprylyl Glycol: Helps make your skin feel smooth and hydrated. It works like a sponge to help your skin hold onto moisture. 
• Sodium Benzoate: The sodium salt of benzoic acid, commonly used in food and cosmetics.
• Potassium Benzoate: Another salt of benzoic acid, used similarly to sodium benzoate.
• Sorbic Acid and Its Salts:  A preservative that could also be a mild irritant. Avoid this ingredient if you have sensitive skin. 
• Sorbic Acid: A natural organic compound used as a preservative in foods and cosmetics.
• Potassium Sorbate: The potassium salt of sorbic acid and is effective against molds and yeasts. 
• Grapefruit Seed Extract: A natural extract with broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties, often used in natural and organic cosmetics.
• Essential Oils: Tea tree, Lavender, Citrus, and Rosemary oils can have antifungal properties but are at a high risk of contamination. Only use essential oils that have been third-party lab tested for purity. 

Regulations on Formaldehyde in Cosmetics

Get glammed up without exposing yourself to formaldehyde. Become an advocate for cleaner cosmetics. 

A recent study by the Washington State Department of Ecology has revealed alarming levels of harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde, in beauty products [3]. Formaldehyde levels were particularly high in those marketed to individuals with darker skin tones.

This discovery was presented during discussions on the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act, a proposed law aimed at eliminating toxic substances from cosmetics by 2025 [4]. Supported by Rep. Sharlett Mena, the Act seeks to ban dangerous chemicals like formaldehyde, PFAS, and lead from beauty products. 

Tests showed that many products exceeded safe formaldehyde levels, potentially causing skin allergies. Lead was also found in some makeup products at levels deemed unsafe by health organizations. Recently, studies found there were high levels of lead and other heavy metals in tampons. These findings underscore the urgent need for stricter regulations to protect consumers.

Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas. It’s classified as a carcinogen and a skin sensitizer, but is often used in cosmetics for its preservative properties. Due to its potential health risks, including cancer and allergic reactions, its use is heavily regulated. 

In the European Union, formaldehyde is prohibited in cosmetics, but certain preservatives that release formaldehyde are allowed as long as the concentration does not exceed 0.05% [5]. Health Canada permits formaldehyde in non-aerosol cosmetics at concentrations up to 0.2% and in nail hardeners up to 5%, provided they carry cautionary labels [6]. The FDA also restricts the use of formaldehyde in cosmetics, particularly in products that release formaldehyde when heated, such as hair smoothing treatments.

Given the potential health risks associated with formaldehyde and other toxic chemicals in beauty products, consumers need to take action. Support legislative efforts like the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act to drive industry-wide changes. 

Vote with your dollar. Don’t spend money on products that use harmful ingredients. Talk to others in your inner circle about the dangers of formaldehyde in cosmetics so that they can vote with their dollars, too. 

By staying informed and advocating for safer regulations, consumers can protect their health and well-being, making empowered choices in their beauty routines.

Health Concerns and Risks of Formaldehyde in Cosmetics

Be proactive with your health by minimizing exposure to formaldehyde in cosmetics. There are significant health concerns about putting products that release formaldehyde on your face, mouth, and body. Here are some of the most common health concerns surrounding cosmetics with formaldehyde. 

Potential Cancer Risk

Formaldehyde is a substance associated with a higher chance of developing specific cancers, such as leukemia and nasopharyngeal cancer. Products containing formaldehyde can sit on your skin all day, increasing the risk of absorption through the skin and into the bloodstream. 

Many of these products sit on your face, which is in close proximity to your nose and mouth. You can inhale these chemicals as they are released during the day.

Although formaldehyde exposure can impact both men and women, some research indicates that women exposed to formaldehyde in their workplaces or surroundings may face a greater risk of certain cancers, such as sinonasal cancer [7]. 

These insights stress the importance of recognizing the unique health dangers linked to formaldehyde exposure, especially among more vulnerable groups, and taking steps to reduce these risks effectively.

Allergic Responses and Sensitivities

Many people wear cosmetics to cover up skin blemishes. What if these blemishes are caused by ingredients in your cosmetics?

Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives in cosmetics can cause common allergic reactions and skin irritations. It's crucial to be aware of these sensitivities and reactions. If you notice any abnormal reactions after applying a certain type of cosmetics, stop using it and look for an alternative. 

How to Shop for Formaldehyde-Free Cosmetics

When prioritizing the selection of safer beauty products, several strategies can guide your choices. Begin by developing a habit of diligently scrutinizing product labels to spot formaldehyde and its releasing agents. 

Pay particular attention to prevalent preservatives known to release formaldehyde, such as quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, and imidazolidinyl urea, enabling you to make informed decisions about the products you use.

To guide your decision-making process, use online resources like the Skin Deep Cosmetics Database curated by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). This tool provides valuable insights into alternative products that align with your desire for safer cosmetics.

When in doubt, you can scan the ingredients list of any personal care product with the Clearya app. They also have this service available on browsers if you’re interested in shopping on Amazon or Target using your computer instead of your phone. 

Lastly, prioritize items explicitly labeled as "formaldehyde-free" or "FRP-free." Look for certifications and seals endorsed by reputable organizations that certify the absence of harmful chemicals in the cosmetics you choose. By incorporating these practices into your beauty routine, you can navigate the realm of formaldehyde-free cosmetics with confidence and clarity.

What Cosmetics Have Formaldehyde In Them?

Formaldehyde is a concerning ingredient found in various cosmetic products. Its presence can pose health risks when exposed to it regularly.

Here are common beauty products with formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers as ingredients:

• Hair straightening treatments
• Nail polishes and hardeners
• Eyelash glues
• Body washes and shampoos
• Moisturizers and lotions
• Makeup removers
• Sunscreens
• Facial cleansers
• Eyeliner and mascara

Being aware of these potential sources of formaldehyde can help consumers make informed choices when selecting their beauty products. 

Can Makeup Free Be the Way to Be?

The presence of formaldehyde in cosmetics highlights potential health hazards, especially for those seeking to camouflage imperfections with makeup. It's empowering to recognize that the products we use to enhance our beauty might contain substances like formaldehyde that could contribute to skin concerns. By choosing a more natural radiance and opting for formaldehyde-free alternatives, you take a proactive step towards a healthier beauty routine. Consider reserving makeup for special moments and celebrating your authentic beauty daily. Each conscious choice you make in selecting products plays a significant role in reducing exposure to harmful ingredients like formaldehyde, fostering both well-being and a confident skincare regimen.

Resources

[1] https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1091581813511831 
[2] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32022R1181 
[3] https://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/environment/wa-could-ban-use-of-cancer-causing-chemicals-in-makeup-hair-care/ 
[4] https://toxicfreefuture.org/washington-state/campaign-washington-ban-toxic-cosmetics/
[5] https://www.edqm.eu/en/-/edqm-publishes-market-surveillance-study-on-formaldehyde-in-cosmetic-products
[6] https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/consumer-product-safety/cosmetics/labelling/safety-ingredients.html
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4937669/