Key facts
- A study of over 110 personal care products found unlabeled toxic chemicals in approximately 85% of items.
- Many products contained multiple ingredients linked to cancer, neurological disease, and reproductive harm.
- Even products marketed as 'eco,' 'green,' or 'natural' frequently contained dangerous compounds.
- The average product contained more than three times the number of chemicals listed on its label.
- Detected toxicants included phthalates, parabens, PFAS, and formaldehyde, often hidden under 'fragrance' or 'parfum'.
- The study highlights the need for stricter regulatory oversight and mandatory testing of personal care products.
A peer-reviewed study has revealed that a significant majority of common personal care products contain unlabeled toxic chemicals. Researchers tested over 110 items, including shampoos, lotions, and toothpaste, finding evidence of harmful compounds in approximately 85% of them. Many of these products contained multiple ingredients known to be carcinogens or health hazards, with even 26% of those marketed as 'eco,' 'green,' or 'natural' containing at least one dangerous substance.
The study, conducted by Million Marker, found that products averaged more than three times the number of chemicals than were listed on their labels. Detected toxicants included hormone disruptors and carcinogens such as phthalates, parabens, PFAS, and formaldehyde, which are linked to various health issues including cancer and reproductive harm. The authors noted that the undisclosed toxicants often fall under the umbrella term 'fragrance' or 'parfum,' which can encompass a wide array of hazardous chemicals without specific disclosure requirements.
Lead author Jenna Hua expressed shock at the findings, questioning why consumers are not being accurately informed about product contents. The study suggests that contamination could be unintentional, stemming from raw materials, unintended chemical reactions, or leaching from plastic packaging. The findings raise concerns about the safety of everyday goods and underscore the need for stricter oversight, including mandatory testing, to protect consumers and support well-intentioned small businesses.
Kristen Knox, a research scientist at the Silent Spring non-profit, commented that the findings highlight a fundamental flaw in the U.S. regulatory system, which assumes safety until harm is proven, rather than proactive testing. Previous research by Silent Spring estimated that listed ingredients in personal care products release thousands of tons of volatile organic compounds into homes annually. A 2022 study also found benzene, a carcinogen, in a significant percentage of tested products, leading to recalls.