Formaldehyde, a chemical you might associate with industrial processes, is a hidden ingredient in many everyday products that women use, including skincare items and textiles. While it serves a purpose in these products, its health risks are concerning, particularly for women who are often exposed to it through multiple sources. Formaldehyde is known to cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and has even been linked to cancer. The alarming part? It’s often found in products you’d never expect—like your favorite lotion or that new wrinkle-resistant shirt.
Formaldehyde in Skincare: An Invisible Threat
In the world of cosmetics, formaldehyde acts as a preservative. It’s used to prevent bacterial growth and extend the shelf life of products. However, the real danger is in how it hides. Formaldehyde can be released from preservatives commonly found in everyday skincare items, such as DMDM Hydantoin, Diazolidinyl Urea, and Quaternium-15. These chemicals slowly release formaldehyde, potentially exposing users to harmful levels over time.
According to a study by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, up to 20% of personal care products contain formaldehyde or formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. Given that women use an average of 12 personal care products daily, this means they could be exposed to formaldehyde multiple times a day without even realizing it. These exposures add up, increasing the risks associated with long-term use.
Why Should Women Be Concerned?
Skin Sensitivities and Allergies
- Formaldehyde is a known irritant, especially for people with sensitive skin. The American Contact Dermatitis Society even named formaldehyde as the “Allergen of the Year” in 2015 due to its prevalence in personal care products and its potential to cause allergic reactions. Women with eczema or other skin conditions are particularly vulnerable, as exposure can worsen these conditions.
Respiratory Problems
- Formaldehyde vapors, which can be inhaled when applying products on the face or neck, may lead to respiratory irritation. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has linked inhaled formaldehyde to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. A 2019 report by the CDC also found that long-term exposure to formaldehyde, even at low levels, can exacerbate asthma symptoms and cause chronic respiratory issues .
Cancer Risk
- Formaldehyde is classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the U.S. National Toxicology Program. Studies have shown that repeated exposure to formaldehyde, even at low doses, can increase the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia. According to the National Cancer Institute, women who use personal care products with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives may have a higher risk of developing these types of cancers, especially with long-term exposure .
Reproductive Health
- Although more research is needed, some studies suggest a link between formaldehyde exposure and reproductive health issues, including reduced fertility and complications during pregnancy. A 2016 study published in the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine found that women working in environments with high formaldehyde exposure reported more menstrual irregularities and fertility problems than those with lower exposure. While the levels in skincare products may not be as high as industrial settings, the cumulative exposure from daily use remains a concern .
Formaldehyde in Textiles: A Second Source of Exposure
How Does Formaldehyde in Textiles Affect Women?
Aside from skincare products, formaldehyde is also found in textiles. Manufacturers use formaldehyde to make fabrics wrinkle-resistant, colorfast, and more durable. This is especially common in “no-iron” or “permanent press” clothing, sheets, and other fabrics. While this might make your clothes more convenient, it can also pose health risks, particularly if the formaldehyde-treated fabrics come into direct contact with your skin.
The American Textile Manufacturers Institute estimates that approximately 8-12% of all textiles are treated with formaldehyde to improve their performance. A study conducted by the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that formaldehyde levels in clothing sold in the U.S. can reach up to 900 ppm (parts per million), although some countries, like Japan, have stricter limits at 75 ppm for baby clothing and 300 ppm for adult garments .
Skin Absorption and Irritation
- Formaldehyde in textiles can be absorbed through the skin, particularly in areas where clothing is tight or in direct contact with sweat, like bras, underwear, or workout clothes. This increases the risk of contact dermatitis, especially in women with sensitive skin. According to a study published in Dermatitis, up to 10% of individuals with formaldehyde allergies reported skin reactions to formaldehyde-treated fabrics .
Airborne Formaldehyde
- When exposed to heat (from your body or in laundry), formaldehyde-treated textiles can release fumes. This means that you could be inhaling formaldehyde even without direct skin contact. Inhalation of formaldehyde from clothing has been linked to similar respiratory issues as those from skincare products. Women who frequently use wrinkle-free or treated clothing may experience greater cumulative exposure.
How Can Women Protect Themselves from Formaldehyde Exposure?
Though formaldehyde is prevalent, there are ways to minimize your exposure and protect your health.
Choose Formaldehyde-Free Skincare
Look for products that are labeled as “formaldehyde-free” or “non-toxic.” Reading labels carefully and using apps or websites like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep database can help you find safer skincare options. You can check your products for safety ratings at EWG Skin Deep.
Another useful resource is The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, which provides information on toxic chemicals in beauty products and encourages companies to create safer alternatives.
Wash New Clothes Before Wearing
- Washing new clothes can help reduce the amount of formaldehyde left on the fabric. According to the American Chemical Society, a single wash can remove up to 60% of formaldehyde from treated textiles. Air-drying clothes outside, if possible, can also help formaldehyde fumes dissipate before you wear them .
Opt for Natural Fibers
- Natural fabrics like organic cotton, linen, or untreated wool are less likely to be treated with formaldehyde. While they may wrinkle more easily, the trade-off for reducing formaldehyde exposure is worth it.
Check Labels for Hidden Formaldehyde
- Familiarize yourself with the names of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives in personal care products, such as DMDM Hydantoin or Quaternium-15. Avoid products with these ingredients whenever possible. Resources like Made Safe, a nonprofit that certifies non-toxic products, can help you find safer alternatives across skincare, personal care, and household products.
Air Out New Fabrics
- When you bring new clothes home, air them out in a well-ventilated area before wearing them. This can help formaldehyde dissipate more quickly, reducing your exposure.
While formaldehyde is often associated with cosmetics, it can also be found in some cleaning products. In cleaning products, formaldehyde acts as a preservative and antimicrobial agent, helping to prevent bacterial growth and mold. However, similar to its use in cosmetics, formaldehyde can be released from preservatives commonly used in cleaning products. This can lead to exposure for those who use these products regularly.
Formaldehyde is a hidden, yet pervasive, chemical found in many skincare and textile products that women use daily. From causing skin irritation and respiratory issues to increasing cancer risks, formaldehyde’s health impacts are real and significant. By being informed and making conscious choices, such as opting for formaldehyde-free skincare products and natural textiles, women can reduce their exposure and protect their long-term health. It’s time to take control of the products you use and ensure they support, rather than compromise, your well-being.
For more information, check out resources like EWG Skin Deep, The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, and Made Safe to find products that align with your health-conscious choices.