California bans 12 harmful ingredients in cosmetics

Many common skincare and hair products may contain harmful chemicals, according to experts from the Environmental Working Group (EWG). These toxins can have serious health effects but often go untested before hitting the market. Starting this year, California banned 12 ingredients in cosmetics that the European Union already prohibited. Other states are also taking action, banning harmful substances like formaldehyde and phthalates. However, many potentially dangerous chemicals still appear in personal care products. The EWG emphasizes that exposure to chemical mixtures can be more harmful than exposure to a single chemical. They warn that these ingredients may disrupt hormones and even cause cancer, particularly impacting products marketed to Black women. Here are eight toxic ingredients to watch for: 1. **Fragrance**: This term can hide many chemicals, sometimes over 300, without clear labeling. Avoid products with undisclosed fragrance blends. 2. **Formaldehyde**: A known carcinogen linked to various cancers, it can be found in hair treatments and some baby soaps. Look for ingredients like quaternium-15 or DMDM hydantoin. 3. **Methylene Glycol**: Similar to formaldehyde, this chemical is used in hair-straightening products. It can release formaldehyde when heated. Just avoid products that list methylene glycol. 4. **Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs)**: These work as preservatives and can irritate skin and eyes. Watch for names ending in “-monium chloride”. 5. **Phthalates**: Used to prolong fragrances, these chemicals can disrupt hormones and impact reproductive health. Look for any words ending in “-phthalate”. 6. **Parabens**: Common preservatives linked to health issues like obesity and infertility. Check labels for ingredients ending in “-paraben”. 7. **PFAS Chemicals**: Known as “forever chemicals,” they are linked to serious health issues. Avoid any products with names starting with “perfluoro-” or “polyfluoro-”. 8. **Isothiazolinones**: These preservatives can cause allergic reactions and skin irritation. Look out for names ending in “-isothiazolinone”. For those interested in checking which harmful ingredients are banned in their states, resources are available to consult. The EWG also provides a database that rates the safety of cosmetic products. Being informed about what’s in personal care products is a crucial step in protecting your health.