Formaldehyde, along with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRPs), is commonly incorporated into a variety of personal care products, particularly shampoos and liquid baby soaps. These chemicals serve the essential function of preventing microbial growth in water-based products but pose significant health risks. They can be absorbed through the skin and have been associated with cancer as well as allergic skin reactions.
Clear solution of formaldehyde in the beaker. Formalin or Aldehyde compoundFormaldehyde in bottle, chemical in the laboratory and industry
What Are Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives (FRPs) and Where Are They Found?
Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a pungent odor, found in numerous products across various industries—including building materials, cabinets, and personal care items. In cosmetics, formaldehyde can be added directly or released slowly from preservatives such as quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, polyoxymethylene urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, bromopol, and glyoxal.
Hydrocarbon series. Formaldehyde molecule with clipping path
These preservatives gradually release small amounts of formaldehyde over time. Although these levels may be low, even concentrations as minimal as 250 parts per million can pose health concerns, particularly for sensitized individuals. A study in 2015 found that both higher storage temperatures and extended duration can increase the quantity of formaldehyde released from these preservatives, heightening potential health risks. Quaternium-15 is recognized as the most sensitizing of these FRPs and is commonly found in products such as blush, mascara, lotion, and shampoo.
DMDM hydantoin is present in items like lotion, sunscreen, and makeup remover, and is considered one of the least sensitizing FRPs. Other preservatives, such as imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, and polyoxymethylene urea, are known allergens, found in products like shampoos, conditioners, and makeup.
Imidazolidinyl urea is frequently utilized as an antimicrobial agent in personal care products and is often combined with parabens for a broad-spectrum preservative effect. It’s important to note that diazolidinyl urea is one of the highest formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate can be found in shampoos, moisturizers, conditioners, and lotions. Animal studies indicate that it may cause sensitization and dermatitis.
FRPs and is commonly found in products such as blush, mascara, lotion, and shampoo.
Meanwhile, bromopol is commonly used in nail polish and makeup removers, but is considered safe only in low concentrations of less than 0.1%. However, it cannot be mixed with amines, as this combination produces nitrosamines, known to penetrate the skin and lead to cancer.
Glyoxal is another ingredient found in conditioners, lotions, nail polish, and treatments, which has been identified as a skin allergen.
Health Concerns of Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
Cancer: Formaldehyde is classified as a known human carcinogen by various health organizations, including the National Toxicology Program and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Research shows links between formaldehyde exposure and leukemia. For instance, a review in 2009 highlighted connections between occupational exposure and cancer risk, specifically leukemia. A 2014 study indicated that formaldehyde is capable of initiating and promoting tumor development. Exposure routes include inhalation of formaldehyde vapors from personal care products, skin absorption, or ingestion. Though most studies focus on the risks from inhalation, studies on other exposure routes are limited. Animal studies have confirmed that formaldehyde can penetrate the skin, particularly when administering products containing formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
Irritation: In 2015, formaldehyde was named the Contact Allergen of the Year by the American Contact Dermatitis Society. While high concentrations of formaldehyde can cause chemical burns, such severe reactions are generally rare and more relevant to occupational settings. Low levels of formaldehyde in cosmetics are widely recognized to trigger allergic skin reactions in some individuals. Studies have shown that up to 11.9% of the population is allergic to formaldehyde, especially with a patch test concentration of 2.0%. Sensitivities may develop over time with repeated exposures. Most irritation results from formaldehyde being released, but some FRPs can also cause adverse reactions independently. Quaternium-15, being the most sensitizing FRP, has seen increased reports of allergic reactions over time, with patch tests revealing that approximately 22.3% of individuals may be allergic. Glyoxal and sodium hydroxymethylglycinate are known allergens as well, with animal studies showing sodium hydroxymethylglycinate may cause sensitization and dermatitis. Irritation often subsides once exposure to these substances is eliminated.
Regulatory Landscape
While the FDA banned the sale of 100% liquid methyl methacrylate in 1974, there are no specific regulations currently prohibiting its use at lower concentrations in cosmetic products. As of this writing, at least 32 states in the United States have banned the professional use of methyl methacrylate in nail salons. However, despite these efforts, trace amounts of formaldehyde and related preservatives continue to be detected in artificial nail products. In response to the risks posed by these chemicals, regulatory bodies in various countries have implemented measures to protect public health.
In Japan and Sweden, the use of formaldehyde in cosmetics is prohibited, and the European Union has regulations that restrict the use of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. Additionally, products that contain these chemicals must be labeled accordingly in the EU to inform consumers of their presence.
In Canada, there are specific concentration limits for formaldehyde and its derivatives in cosmetics.
How to Avoid Acrylates and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
To minimize exposure to formaldehyde and acrylates in cosmetics, consider the following recommendations:
1. Check Product Labels: Always read the ingredient list on cosmetic products. Avoid those containing formaldehyde, quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, bromopol, and glyoxal.
2. Choose Alternatives: Opt for cosmetic products labeled as “formaldehyde-free” or “toxic-trio-free” (which excludes formaldehyde, toluene, and dibutyl phthalate). Look for natural or organic alternatives that prioritize safety.
3. Avoid Salon-Based Treatments: Be cautious with hair-smoothing products sold in salons, as they often fall under regulations that exempt them from ingredient disclosure. If possible, inquire about the specific products used.
4. Ditch Expired Products: Do not use expired cosmetics as they may release more formaldehyde over time. Also, avoid storing cosmetic products in direct sunlight to minimize degradation and chemical release. By being informed and proactive, consumers can make safer choices regarding personal care products and mitigate the risks associated with formaldehyde and its derivatives.
References:
1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry. Available at: [ATSDR](https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/formaldehyde/).
2. Moennich, J. N., Hanna, D. M., & Jacob, S. E. (2009). Environmental exposures: A pediatric perspective on allergic contact dermatitis. Skin & Aging, 28-36.
3. Jacob, S. E., & Breithaupt, A. (2009). Environmental exposures: A pediatric perspective on baby and cosmetic products. Journal of the Dermatology Nurses’ Association, 1, 211-214.
4. Flyvholm, M. A., Hall, B. M., Agner, T., Tiedemann, E., Greenhill, P., Vanderveken, W., Freeberg, F. E., & Menne, T. (1997). Threshold for occluded formaldehyde patch test in formaldehyde-sensitive patients. Relationship to repeated open application test with a product containing a formaldehyde releaser. Contact Dermatitis, 36(1), 26-33.
5. Jordan, W. P. Jr., Sherman, W. T., & King, S. E. (1979). Threshold responses in formaldehyde-sensitive subjects. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 1(1), 44-48. Confirmation provided through personal communication between Dr. Sharon Jacob and Stacy Malkan, February 26, 2009.
6. Lv, C., Hou, J., Xie, W., & Cheng, H. (2015). Investigation of formaldehyde release from preservatives in cosmetics. *International Journal of Cosmetic Science.
7. Becker, L. C., Bergfeld, W. F., Belsito, D. V., Klaassen, C. D., Hill, R., Leibler, D., & Andersen, F. A. (2010). Final report of the amended safety assessment of quaternium-15 as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 29(3 suppl), 98S-114S.
8. Propionate, A., Chloride, B., Urea, D., Black, D., DMDM Hydantoin, E., Acetate, E., & Glycerides, H. T. (2008). Annual Review of Cosmetic Ingredient Safety Assessments. *International Journal of Toxicology, 27(1), 77-142.
