Toxic Chemical Ingredient | FORMALDEHYDE AND FORMALDEHYDE RELEASING PRODUCTS
What is FORMALDEHYDE AND FORMALDEHYDE RELEASING PRODUCTS
Formaldehyde is a chemical compound used in various cosmetic and personal care products, primarily as a preservative to extend shelf life. Formaldehyde-releasing products, on the other hand, are substances that slowly release formaldehyde over time to provide antimicrobial properties and prevent spoilage. Both formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing products have raised concerns about their potential health risks.
Formaldehyde is a known irritant and allergen and can cause skin, eye, and respiratory irritation in some individuals. It has also been classified as a human carcinogen by organizations like the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) when exposure levels are high, such as in occupational settings. While formaldehyde-releasing products are designed to release formaldehyde in lower amounts, there is still debate and concern over their safety, especially with repeated exposure.
[Source: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2015). "Formaldehyde in Cosmetics." International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (2006). "Formaldehyde." IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 88, 39-325]