A recent report highlights the ongoing presence of potentially toxic chemicals in personal care products, including popular items like lipstick, moisturizers, and shampoos. Despite some progress in the industry, a significant number of products still contain harmful ingredients that pose health risks to consumers.
In an episode of the hospital drama “The Pitt,” aired on HBO Max, a fictional beauty influencer named Nandi becomes a victim of severe mercury poisoning, stemming from an imported facial moisturizer she endorses. The portrayal is a stark reminder of the dangers lurking in everyday beauty products.
According to a 2021 analysis of 231 cosmetics purchased in the United States and Canada, over 52% of these items contained per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are known hormone disruptors linked to various health issues. The report identified that the highest concentrations of PFAS were found in products such as foundations, waterproof mascara, and long-lasting lipstick. Alarmingly, 88% of products containing PFAS did not disclose their presence on labels, leaving consumers unaware of their potential exposure.
The issue is particularly pronounced in beauty products marketed towards Black women. Research indicates that around 50% of hair straighteners contain toxic chemicals, such as formaldehyde, which is associated with cancer.
Despite these concerning statistics, there is a glimmer of hope in the findings of the 2025 Beauty & Personal Care Ingredient Intelligence Report prepared by ChemFORWARD, a nonprofit organization focused on promoting safer chemicals in personal care products. Stacy Glass, cofounder and executive director of ChemFORWARD, noted that verified safety is improving, with hazardous chemicals appearing in fewer products, down 2% overall. “This shows that it’s possible to identify and manage toxic chemical exposure in personal care products with industry cooperation,” she stated.
However, the report also reveals that nearly 4% of products continue to utilize a critical group of high-hazard chemicals, particularly in lip colors, moisturizers, and shampoos. While this percentage may seem small, it is crucial to recognize that the 50,000 products analyzed represent only a fraction of the global personal care industry. David Andrews, acting chief science officer for the Environmental Working Group (EWG), emphasized that even if companies reformulate products to eliminate hazardous chemicals, these substances may still be available on the market, leaving consumers uncertain about which products to avoid.
ChemFORWARD’s analysis included nearly 50,000 products from major industry partners, such as Dow, Sephora, and Ulta Beauty. The findings revealed that more than 71% of the 1.25 million ingredients examined were deemed safe or of low concern for human health and the environment. Ingredients like glycerin and hyaluronic acid were highlighted for their moisture-retaining properties.
Despite the positive findings, over 24% of the chemicals analyzed could not be evaluated due to insufficient safety data, creating a significant blind spot in consumer safety. The report cautioned consumers that just because a product is labeled “free of” certain chemicals does not guarantee its safety.
Botanicals, often assumed to be safe, can be particularly challenging to assess for toxicity. Heather McKenney, science and safer chemistry lead for ChemFORWARD, explained that variations in plant parts and processing methods complicate the understanding of their potential risks.
The Personal Care Products Council (PCPC), representing the industry, expressed its commitment to advancing safety regulations. In a statement, spokesperson Tesia Williams noted that the Modernization of Cosmetics Regulations Act (MoCRA) would impose several new requirements on cosmetics manufacturers, including safety substantiation and adverse event reporting.
Consumers are urged to be vigilant when reading labels for hazardous chemicals. The ChemFORWARD report flagged several ingredients to watch for, including F-rated silicones, which are commonly used to create a smooth feel in products but have been restricted by the European Union due to environmental concerns. Additionally, methylparaben, linked to hormonal disruption, is frequently found in various beauty products.
While the presence of harmful chemicals in personal care products remains a pressing issue, there is a growing movement within the industry to transition to safer alternatives. Glass expressed optimism, stating, “We believe our report shows the transition to safer chemistry is actively underway.”
As awareness grows, consumers are encouraged to prioritize safety and demand transparency from manufacturers. The responsibility for ensuring safe products should not fall on consumers alone; industry accountability is essential for fostering a healthier environment for all.
