Washington is the first state in the United States to ban formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in cosmetics.
The chemicals will be banned under the Toxic Free Cosmetics Act (TFCA), which will take effect in 2027.
Cosmetic products that contain formaldeyde releasing chemicals that are intentionally added to them will be restricted in the state. The deadline is to give companies a chance to reformulate their products. Retailers have until December 31, 2027, to sell through existing inventory.
“There are cosmetic products on the market that do the same job without releasing these carcinogenic chemicals,” the law enforcement official said.
“Switching to safer chemicals will help protect all Washingtonians — especially cosmetologists, stylists and the people who work with these products every day.”
Formaldehyde is a preservative used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics, and other preservatives may release formaldehyde over time, known as formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRPs).
According to the American Cancer Society, they are sometimes used in low concentrations in cosmetics and other personal care products such as lotions, shampoos, conditioners, shower gels, and some nail polishes, as well as hair straightening treatments.
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and has been linked to cancers of the nose and throat, leukemia, as well as asthma and skin irritation.
People who work in hair and nail salons are thought to be at higher risk due to regular exposure to the chemical at work.
Women of color are also said to be at higher risk due to the presence of the chemical in some products used to soften and strengthen hair.
