According to CNN’s report, the 2025 Beauty and Personal Care Content Report reveals that chemicals classified as high risk are still prevalent in products such as shampoo, hair conditioner, foundation, and lipstick. The hidden dangers not listed on labels have been exposed.
Research found that 52% of 231 cosmetic products sold in the US and Canada contain chemicals known as PFAS. These substances can disrupt hormone balance and are associated with health issues ranging from cancer. Shockingly, 88% of these products do not list these chemicals on their labels.
The report highlights the most concerning chemicals to watch out for, including Cyclopentasiloxane and Cyclomethicone (silicone derivatives), Methylparaben (hormone disruptor), BHT (Butylated hydroxytoluene) (endocrine disruptor and toxic to the environment), and D&C Red 27, 28 (colorants affecting the immune and reproductive systems).
Chemical safety expert Heather McKenney emphasized that “Consumers should not be burdened with determining which products are safe. This responsibility should fall on the manufacturers,” stressing the need for greater transparency in the industry.
The organization ChemFORWARD, which compiled the report, noted a 2% decrease in hazardous chemicals and an increase in safe formulations. However, approximately 4% of about 50,000 products were found to still contain high-risk ingredients. Experts urge the cosmetic industry to transition to non-toxic formulations, emphasizing that beauty should not come at the expense of our health.
