Cancer and Make-up: Is There a Link?
The global cosmetic industry generates billions of dollars each year, with millions of consumers using beauty and personal care products daily. From shampoos and moisturizers to makeup and body cleansers, cosmetics are deeply embedded in our routines. A 2004 study by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics revealed that the average woman uses around 12 cosmetic products per day—often without knowing what ingredients they contain.
Most people apply lotions, makeup, and cleansers without considering the possible health risks. The last thing on our minds is whether a tearless shampoo or fruity body wash could contribute to cancer. Yet recent investigations have raised legitimate concerns about harmful contaminants hidden in everyday products.
1,4-Dioxane: A Silent Contaminant
One of the most troubling chemicals identified in cosmetics is 1,4-dioxane, a petroleum-derived contaminant classified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a probable human carcinogen. The National Toxicology Program also recognizes it as a known carcinogen in animals. Moreover, California lists 1,4-dioxane under Proposition 65, marking it as a chemical known—or strongly suspected—to cause cancer and birth defects.
What makes this even more alarming is that 1,4-dioxane does not have to appear on product labels, because it is a byproduct unintentionally created during the manufacturing process. Although the contaminant can be removed easily and inexpensively, many manufacturers still choose not to do so.
Lack of FDA Oversight
Jeanne Rizzo, R.N., executive director of the Breast Cancer Fund and a founding member of The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, points out that 1,4-dioxane is merely “the tip of the iceberg.” The larger issue is the absence of strong FDA authority over cosmetic safety. The FDA does not require cosmetic products to undergo safety testing before they hit store shelves, meaning companies can legally include—or inadvertently create—ingredients that may pose health risks.
The FDA has been aware of 1,4-dioxane contamination since 1979 and recommends that manufacturers keep levels below 10 parts per million (ppm). However, even with these lenient guidelines, roughly 15% of tested products exceeded this limit.
Some of the products found to contain the highest concentrations include:
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Clairol Herbal Essences Rainforest Flowers Shampoo
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Oil of Olay Complete Body Wash with Vitamins
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Johnson & Johnson Watermelon Explosion Kids’ Shampoo
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Hello Kitty Bubble Bath
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Disney Clean as a Bee Hair and Body Wash
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Gerber Grins and Giggles Aloe Vera Baby Shampoo
These findings highlight that contamination affects not only adult products but also those designed specifically for children and infants.
Why 1,4-Dioxane Forms in Cosmetics
1,4-Dioxane typically appears during a process known as ethoxylation, used to make harsh ingredients milder and increase the foaming or moisturizing effects of shampoos, soaps, and cleansers. Products containing ingredients such as PEG, sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), or chemicals ending in –eth are more likely to contain traces of this contaminant.
While manufacturers could use vacuum-stripping techniques to remove 1,4-dioxane during production, many do not—largely because regulation is minimal and compliance is voluntary.
What Consumers Can Do
Until the cosmetics industry faces stronger regulation, consumers must take a proactive approach to product safety. Some steps include:
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Reading ingredient lists carefully and avoiding products with ethoxylated ingredients (e.g., PEGs, SLES).
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Choosing brands that commit to transparency and publish full ingredient breakdowns.
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Using databases such as EWG’s Skin Deep to check product safety.
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Selecting organic or naturally formulated products when possible.
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Supporting legislation that encourages cosmetic safety reform.
Knowledge is one of the strongest tools consumers have. Understanding ingredients and their potential effects can help individuals make informed choices to protect themselves and their families.