What Consumers Need to Know About Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives and Skin Reactions

According to a 2022 FDA report, the agency found nearly one-fifth of personal care products it evaluated had preservatives that release formaldehyde, substances that can create allergic reactions and sensitization of the skin.

These preservatives do not usually contain actual formaldehyde, but are typically formulated, by manufacturers, to preserve products — like shampoo, lotion, cosmetics, etc. — in a better manner; killing bacteria and molds, as well as slowly releasing formaldehyde, which is an irritant of skin and respiratory systems.

In this article, I will detail how these associated ingredients do all of this, why there is controversy surrounding them, and  legal claims involving harmful beauty products to seek accountability and compensation.

1. Release Small Amounts of Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives don’t contain free formaldehyde when they are manufactured. Instead, they bit by bit release trace amounts of it over time as the product degrades or is disclosed to moisture or air.

Although these are small amounts used, they can be enough to irritate the skin or cause reactions in healthy people with sensitive skin. This slow release also makes it difficult for consumers to recognize the risk immediately, as allergic reactions may occur after repeated use.

These hidden dangers have led to growing, as more consumers begin to understand the downsides associated with certain skincare ingredients.

2. Can Cause Allergic Skin Reactions

Allergies and sensitivities are one of the primary worries surrounding formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, and their use can lead to allergic contact dermatitis. This is a condition where the skin reacts to a simulated allergen and becomes inflamed, itchy, and irritated.

People who are frequently exposed to these chemicals may develop sensitivity to them. It may also get worse over time, so even people who don’t seem allergic can develop sensitivity after repeated exposure.

3. Symptoms Include Redness and Itching

Reactions to these additives can begin lightly, with redness, dryness, and itchiness. Symptoms can progress to a rash, peeling skin, swelling, or blistering under extreme lighting conditions. 

These side effects usually occur on the parts of the body in which the product is often used, including the face, hands, neck, and underarms. And because they can imitate other skin conditions, many people might not even realize that the cause is a preservative in their daily skincare or sterilization routine.

4. Often Hidden Under Different Names

In the case of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, one of the challenges is that they often show up under names that don’t include the word “formaldehyde.”

Typical examples are quaternion-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, and bronopol. This can make it tough for consumers to know unless they do leg work and read ingredient lists carefully. For anyone with a sensitivity, knowing these other names is essential to prevent flare-ups.

5. Safer Alternatives Exist

Fortunately, safe alternatives are abundant. Many natural and organic personal care brands even use preservatives derived from food or plant-based sources, which are less likely to affect the skin.

Seek out products labeled “formaldehyde-free” or certified by leading health organizations. Paying attention to labels and choosing gentle, hypoallergenic blends can help keep your skin safe from damaging chemicals.

Take Away

Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are more widespread than expected and may cause persistent and uncomfortable skin reactions. However, by understanding how these ingredients function, knowing what symptoms to look for, and learning how to identify them on product labels, consumers can have more power over their skincare decisions.

With plenty of gentler options now available, opting for something that might do more harm than good to your skin is unnecessary.