The regulatory landscape for skincare products warrants attention and improvement to ensure consumer safety and mitigate cancer risks associated with skincare products.
Dr Mihika Noronha MBBS MD DNB Dermatology Ruby Hall Clinic Pune shares the cancer causing ingredients in skincare products
In recent years, concerns have been raised about the safety of skincare products and their potential link to cancer. A startling revelation came to light when five American brands of benzoyl peroxide were found to contain levels of Benzene above the FDA limit. This alarming discovery underscored the importance of proper storage and raised questions about the ingredients present in skincare formulations.
The culprit behind the elevated levels of Benzene was poor storage conditions. It’s essential to heed the storage instructions provided on the product labels, especially for creams and lotions. Most creams should be stored in a cool, dark place above 25 degrees Celsius. Following these guidelines can prevent chemical degradation and ensure product safety. Additionally, using creams beyond their recommended shelf life, typically three months, can pose risks.
One key recommendation emerging from this issue is to store skincare products in a refrigerator. This helps maintain stability and prevents the formation of harmful compounds. However, even with proper storage, there are inherent risks associated with skincare products, particularly those sold over the counter without a prescription.
Unlike prescription drugs, over-the-counter skincare products are not subject to stringent regulations. Consequently, many of these products may contain cancer-causing agents or carcinogens. It’s crucial for consumers to scrutinize product labels and avoid purchasing items without proper labeling. Some common carcinogenic ingredients to watch out for include talc, parabens, BHT, PEG, formaldehyde, and ethanolamine. These chemicals can induce cancer by altering cell structure or DNA.
Moreover, contamination with toxic elements such as carbon, silica, arsenic, asbestos, lead, and mercury poses additional health risks. These contaminants not only increase the likelihood of cancer but also impact liver and kidney function. Unlabeled products, cheap imitations, and imports from countries with lax regulations are particularly prone to contamination.
Another concerning finding is the association between certain hair treatment products and cancer risk, particularly in women. Chemicals like formaldehyde, commonly used in permanent hair straightening and smoothing treatments, have been implicated in cancer development. Even products marketed as “all-natural” or “organic” may contain unstable compounds that can become carcinogenic under certain conditions.
Furthermore, the popularity of gel manicures, cured under UV light, has raised concerns about potential cancer risks from recurrent exposure to UV radiation. Uncontrolled exposure to UV light from LEDs or lamps used in manicure settings can contribute to skin cancer risk over time.
In conclusion, the safety of skincare products cannot be taken for granted. Consumers must be vigilant, read product labels carefully, and consult dermatologists for recommendations. The regulatory landscape for skincare products warrants attention and improvement to ensure consumer safety and mitigate cancer risks associated with skincare products. Stay informed, stay cautious, and prioritize your health when selecting skincare products.