2025 Beauty and Personal Care Content Report revealed that hazardous chemicals, such as those found in shampoos, conditioners, foundations, and lipsticks, are still widespread, as reported by CNN. These hidden dangers not listed on labels pose serious risks. According to the research, 52% of 231 cosmetic products sold in the US and Canada contain PFAS…
2025 Beauty and Personal Care Content Report revealed that hazardous chemicals, such as those found in shampoos, conditioners, foundations, and lipsticks, are still widespread, as reported by CNN. These hidden dangers not listed on labels pose serious risks. According to the research, 52% of 231 cosmetic products sold in the US and Canada contain PFAS chemicals, known to disrupt hormone balance and linked to health issues including cancer. Shockingly, 88% of these products do not disclose the presence of these chemicals on their labels.
Experts highlight that chemicals like formaldehyde in hair straighteners are particularly common in products aimed at black women and are associated with cancer. The report lists the most concerning chemicals as Cyclopentasiloxane and Cyclomethicone (silicone derivatives), Methylparaben (hormone disruptor), BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene) (endocrine disruptor and environmentally toxic), and D&C Red 27, 28 (colorants affecting the immune and reproductive systems).
Chemical safety expert Heather McKenney emphasized the need for manufacturers, not consumers, to take responsibility for ensuring product safety. McKenney stated, “Consumers should not be tasked with determining product safety; this responsibility lies with manufacturers.”
ChemFORWARD, the organization behind the report, noted a 2% decrease in hazardous chemical prevalence and an increase in safe formulations. However, approximately 4% of the 50,000 products assessed still contain high-risk ingredients. Experts stress that “Looking good should not come at the cost of our health” and urge the cosmetic industry to transition to non-toxic formulations.
