Hidden Formaldehyde: Products You Didn’t Know Contain It

I was amazed to learn that formaldehyde, a known irritant, is present in numerous household and personal care products. From non-iron clothes treatment to beauty and skincare, formaldehyde is widely used, often under aliases such as Formalin, Methanal, or DMDM Hydantoin.

Common Products Containing Formaldehyde

Non-iron clothes treatment Plywood Beauty and skincare products Eyelash glue Hair gel Paint Nail varnish Tanning lotions

Alternative Names for Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde appears on product labels under various names, including Formalin, Formic aldehyde, Methanediol, Methanal, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene glycol, Methylene oxide, and Oxymethylene. Additionally, some preservatives used in these products release formaldehyde over time.

Preservatives that Release Formaldehyde

Benzylhemiformal 2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (Bronopol) 5-Bromo-5-nitro-13-dioxane Diazolidinyl urea (Germall II) 1,3-dimethylol-5,5-dimethylhydantoin or DMDM hydantoin (Glydant) Imidazolidinyl urea (Germall) Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate Quaternium-15 Polyoxymethylene urea Glyoxal Tris(nitromethane) Tris nitroindustrial biocide

Formaldehyde is a degradation product of propylene glycol and is often released from these preservatives over time. Even at low levels, formaldehyde can cause health concerns, particularly for sensitized individuals. A 2015 study found that longer storage times and higher temperatures increase the release of formaldehyde, potentially leading to more severe health issues.

Specific Groupings and Their Levels

Quaternium-15

Most sensitizing of the FRPs Found in blush, mascara, lotion, and shampoo

DMDM Hydantoin

Found in lotion, sunscreen, and makeup remover One of the least sensitizing of the FRPs

Imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, and polyoxymethylene urea

Found in shampoo, conditioner, blush, eye shadow, and lotion Known human allergens

Imidazolidinyl urea is often combined with parabens for broad-spectrum preservation.

Diazolidinyl urea releases the most formaldehyde of any FRP.

Other Formulations and Their Reactions

Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate

Found in shampoo, moisturizer, conditioner, and lotion Animal studies suggest potential for sensitization and dermatitis

Bromopol

Found in nail polish, makeup remover, moisturizer, and body wash Considered safe in concentrations less than 0.1% Cannot be found in formulations with the FRP amine. Mixing produces nitrosamines, linked to skin penetration and cancer.

Glyoxal

Found in conditioner, lotion, nail polish, and nail treatment

Conclusion

The prevalence of formaldehyde in household and personal care products is concerning. Understanding the presence and alternatives is crucial for those with sensitivities and overall health awareness. Always read labels carefully, and seek alternatives if necessary.