Unveiling the Hidden Dangers in Cosmetics - 2. The Hidden Carcinogens and Skin Irritants

Introduction

Continuing our series on harmful cosmetic ingredients, this article delves into formaldehyde, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, and sulfates. Understanding these ingredients can help you make safer choices for your skin.

1. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives: The Hidden Carcinogens

What Is Formaldehyde? Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas used in various industrial applications. In cosmetics, it serves as a preservative and disinfectant, preventing the growth of bacteria and other pathogens.

Why Is Formaldehyde Harmful? Formaldehyde is classified as a known human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde can increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia. Additionally, formaldehyde can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory problems. Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, such as quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, and imidazolidinyl urea, slowly release formaldehyde over time, posing similar risks.

How to Identify Formaldehyde and Its Releasers Formaldehyde and its releasing agents can be identified on ingredient lists by names such as formaldehyde, formalin, quaternium-