Carcinogens Found in Baby Shampoo
Most of us probably grew up using certain baby products that we have grown accustomed to. We in turn use these products on our own babies and children. Baby will always have his or her own special shampoo, soap, cologne and lotion: a gentler, milder formula that is safe for baby’s sensitive skin.
The latest report from an advocacy group called the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics may change this preconceived notion. Now, if the results of their tests are accurate and taken at face value, what we previously thought were the safest cosmetic products in the market may not be as safe as we think.
The March 2009 report, entitled “No More Toxic Tub”, is available for viewing online. The report presents results of an independent laboratory analysis that tested 48 popular bath products for the presence of two known carcinogens: formaldehyde and 1,4-dioxane. The results indicated that 61% contained traces of both substances. A high majority at 82% contained formaldehyde, while 67% contained 1,4-dioxane.
While it may be true that some occurrences in baby products are not that significant, the fact that they exist in multiple products that are used in conjunction with other equally contaminated products, these small exposures may add up and become significant.
You may wonder why manufacturers are not forthcoming regarding the presence of these substances. According to the group, the presence of both substances is not due to the fact that they are ingredients, but they eventually find their way into the product as contaminants. The group adds further that there is a way for manufacturers to remove these contaminants, but since there is no government regulation regarding this, they are not really required to do so.
Popular children’s bath products from the more favored manufacturers such as Johnson and Johnson and Baby Magic are among those tested.
Tags: baby products, baby shampoo, carcinogens
