A recent peer-reviewed study indicates that common personal care products frequently contain toxic chemicals not listed on their labels. Researchers tested more than 110 items, including shampoo and baby lotions, and found evidence of these undisclosed chemicals in approximately 85% of them.
Many of the products contained multiple ingredients known to be carcinogens or health hazards. Notably, 26% of products marketed as "eco", "green", or "natural" also contained at least one dangerous compound. On average, the products had over three times more chemicals than were declared on their labels.
Chemicals detected included hormone disruptors and carcinogens such as phthalates, parabens, PFAS, and formaldehyde. These substances are linked to various health issues, including cancer, neurological disease, and reproductive harm. The study's authors suggest these findings highlight a need for stricter oversight, including mandatory testing, though it remains unclear if the presence of these chemicals is due to intentional adulteration or unintentional contamination.