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Detecting Estrogenic Ligands in Personal Care Products using a Yeast Estrogen Screen Optimized for the Undergraduate Teaching Laboratory
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Formaldehyde Release From Personal Care Products: Chromotropic Acid Method Analysis
Anne Nikle, Marna Ericson1, Erin Warshaw
1Department of Dermatology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis.
Dermatitis : Contact, Atopic, Occupational, Drug
|December 21, 2018
Summary
Formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers (F/FRs) were detected in US personal care products, even when not listed on labels. This highlights potential risks for consumers, especially those with formaldehyde allergies.
Area of Science:
- Cosmetic Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Dermatology
Background:
- Formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers (F/FRs) are common preservatives in personal care products.
- Previous studies indicated potential formaldehyde presence in products with undeclared F/FRs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence of formaldehyde in US personal care products.
- To assess the accuracy of product labeling regarding F/FRs.
Main Methods:
- Tested 54 baby and adult personal care products using the chromotropic acid method.
- A blinded investigator assessed color changes to quantify formaldehyde levels.
Main Results:
- All 8 products declaring F/FRs showed strong formaldehyde presence.
- 4 out of 46 (8.6%) products with undeclared F/FRs released formaldehyde, indicated by a mild reaction.
Conclusions:
- 7.4% of tested products had labeling discrepancies regarding formaldehyde content.
- Limitations in product labeling necessitate awareness for clinicians and formaldehyde-allergic individuals managing allergic contact dermatitis.
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