An expert has revealed what dangerous chemicals could be lurking in our cosmetic products, as ’64 substances were added to the list of banned ingredients under the UK Cosmetics Regulation this year’
Some of our regular cosmetic products, from skincare to makeup and oral health, have been linked to some serious health issues, including fertility issues and deadly cancers.
It’s almost impossible to understand what every ingredient making up our hydrating body moisturiser actually means, or what makes our toothpaste foam – unless you’re a professional, of course. But for the majority of us, we choose our products based on what best suits our skin and lifestyle, rather than the lengthy list of ingredients found on the back in minuscule writing.
But this might be the time to start checking our cosmetic products more thoroughly, as research has found alarming links between some of the key ingredients in our go-to toiletries. Some have been linked to several cancers or impact fertility, while others could see us unknowingly consuming plastic.
READ MORE: Gel nail polish banned as terrifying fertility risks of toxic TPO exposedREAD MORE: Cardiologists at British Heart Foundation say one food at 11am cuts cholesterol
Just this week, health officials banned a key ingredient, found in numerous gel nail polish brands, across Europe due to concerns over its potential toxicity to humans. The ban could reach the UK by 2026, following studies that the use of trimethylbenzoyl diphenylphosphine oxide, also known as TPO, could be linked to long-term fertility issues.
In light of the most recent ban, Nina Prisk, an aesthetics nurse and independent prescriber based in the UK, told us about the potential dangers in our daily products. The expert also revealed what ingredients we need to be mindful of, explaining that an astonishing “64 substances were added to the list of banned ingredients under the UK Cosmetics Regulation” this year.
Nina exclusively told the Mirror: “There’s growing evidence that some cosmetic products contain ingredients which can be problematic, particularly for people with sensitive skin or those having aesthetic treatments.
“A recent UK study found that over half of women were using products with formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, which are associated with cancer risks. Breast Cancer UK has also highlighted that around 8.5 million women in the UK use at least six personal care products every day, which can mean repeated exposure to a cocktail of chemicals such as parabens, phthalates and synthetic fragrances.”
The expert continued: “Regulation in the UK is tightening. This year, 64 substances classed as carcinogenic, mutagenic or reprotoxic were added to the banned ingredients list under the UK Cosmetics Regulation. Certain well-known ingredients are also now restricted such as oxybenzone, which is capped at lower levels in sunscreens and body products, and kojic acid is limited to 1% in creams.”
For anyone concerned about the ingredients in their products, Nina offered some advice: “The best step is to buy from reputable brands and retailers, ideally those that are transparent about their ingredients. Reading labels is key, and if you have sensitive skin, choose fragrance-free products and patch test anything new. If you’re concerned about hormone disruptors, you can look for paraben- and phthalate-free options, which are now widely available.
“And most importantly, it’s about balance. Cosmetic products sold by reputable retailers in the UK are regulated and considered safe when used as directed. The key is choosing products that suit your skin type and avoiding unnecessary irritants if you want to keep your skin barrier healthy and get the best results from your treatments.”
The expert also noted: “It’s important to keep perspective as not every chemical is harmful, and everything, even water, is technically a chemical. What matters is the concentration, the way it’s used, and the regulatory oversight. The beauty industry has made huge progress in recent years, with more ‘clean’ and ‘conscious’ beauty products than ever before. My advice is not to panic, but to be an informed consumer, and when in doubt, opt for clinical-grade products from trusted sources.”