Cancer-Causing Chemicals Found in Lotion, Shampoo, and Eyelash Glue, Study Reveals
Los Angeles, CA – May 8, 2025
A new study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters has raised alarms about cancer-causing chemicals lurking in everyday personal care products, including lotions, shampoos, and eyelash glues, with a particular impact on Black and Latina women in South Los Angeles. The research, conducted by the University of Southern California and Occidental College, found that over half of the personal care products used by these communities contain formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, known carcinogens linked to serious health risks, as reported by NPR and amplified by posts on X.
The study surveyed 200 Black and Latina women, analyzing 30 commonly used products, such as shampoos, body lotions, and hair relaxers. Formaldehyde releasers, like quaternium-15 and DMDM hydantoin, were detected in 17 products, releasing low levels of formaldehyde over time—a chemical classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. These compounds, used to extend shelf life and prevent bacterial growth, pose risks especially with frequent use, potentially increasing cancer incidence, as noted by co-author Bhavna Shamasunder. “These chemicals accumulate in the body, and repeated exposure is a real concern,” she told NPR.
Eyelash glues, a growing concern due to the popularity of lash extensions, were also flagged for containing formaldehyde and cyanoacrylate, which can cause allergic reactions, eye damage, and long-term cancer risks, according to a 2024 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Similarly, shampoos and lotions often contain 1,4-dioxane, a byproduct of manufacturing listed as a “reasonably anticipated carcinogen” by the National Toxicology Program, found in 28% of personal care products per the Environmental Working Group.
The findings highlight regulatory gaps in the U.S., where the FDA has not updated cosmetic safety laws since 1938, allowing over 1,400 chemicals banned in the EU to remain in American products. A 2013 lawsuit by the Center for Environmental Health exposed cocamide DEA, another carcinogen, in 98 shampoos, including brands like Colgate-Palmolive and Paul Mitchell, yet enforcement remains limited. “Consumers are left to navigate ingredient lists themselves,” said Marielle Segarra of NPR’s Life Kit, noting the challenge of identifying hidden toxins like phthalates and parabens, which are endocrine disruptors linked to breast cancer.
Black and Latina women face disproportionate risks due to targeted marketing of products like hair relaxers, which often contain higher levels of harmful chemicals. The study calls for stronger FDA oversight and industry reform to prioritize safer formulations. On X, users like @En_formare expressed outrage, urging companies to eliminate formaldehyde releasers, while @TheSunHealth emphasized the need for consumer awareness about toxic beauty products.
As the debate intensifies, experts recommend checking labels for formaldehyde, 1,4-dioxane, and cocamide DEA, and opting for certified organic or non-toxic brands like Dr. Bronner’s or Weleda. The study underscores an urgent need for systemic change to protect public health from the silent risks in daily beauty routines.
Sources: NPR, Environmental Science & Technology Letters, Center for Environmental Health, International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, Environmental Working Group, X posts (@En_formare, @TheSunHealth)
