Formaldehyde
Also known as: Methanal, Methylene oxide
Last updated:
Formaldehyde is prohibited in cosmetics in the European Union (Annex II #1577) since 2019 due to its classification as a Category 1B carcinogen. Free formaldehyde is rare in modern cosmetic formulations but is generated by formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Quaternium-15). In the US, FDA proposed a ban on free formaldehyde and methylene glycol in hair-smoothing and hair-straightening products in 2023, with rulemaking ongoing.
Regulatory status by market
| Market | Status | Detail | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| European Union | Prohibited | Banned in cosmetics | Annex II #1577 |
| United Kingdom | Prohibited | Mirrors EU ban | UK Cosmetics Regulation |
| United States | Conditionally permitted | FDA proposed 2023 ban in hair smoothing/straightening; rulemaking ongoing | FDA proposed rule (2023) |
| Canada | Restricted | Hotlist restricted; max 0.2% as preservative | Health Canada Hotlist |
Safety profile
Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1) and a strong skin sensitizer. Acute exposure causes eye, skin, and respiratory irritation. Long-term occupational exposure is linked to nasopharyngeal cancer. The cosmetic regulatory direction globally is toward elimination — both of free formaldehyde and of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives that hydrolyze to release it.
Common uses
- Historically: hair-straightening products (US, pending FDA ban)
- Historically: nail polish hardeners (now mostly reformulated)
- Cosmetic use otherwise prohibited or strongly discouraged
Primary sources
Regulatory status is current to the "Last updated" date above. Always verify against the regulator's authoritative publication for the specific market and product category before relying on this summary for compliance decisions.
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