Tell WA Department of Ecology: Ban all formaldehyde releasers in cosmetics!
Cancer-causing chemicals don’t belong in products we use on our bodies!
The good news is that Washington state is doing something about it. In 2023, the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act became law and bans on numerous chemicals started to take effect January 1, 2025!
Now the Department of Ecology (Ecology) has just released a draft rule to ban formaldehyde releasers in cosmetics and personal care products. It is comprehensive, covering ALL formaldehyde releasers and has strong enforcement provisions that will ensure these dangerous chemicals are phased out.
It’s time to weigh in to support this strong rule by April 11, 2025!
Formaldehyde can cause cancer, harm brain function, increase the risk of asthma, and irritate eyes and skin. It can also impact fish when released into waterways. Formaldehyde releasers can be used as preservatives, antimicrobials or serve other functions in a range of products from hair straighteners to creams and shampoos!
Research has shown that women of color are disproportionately exposed to toxic chemicals from beauty and personal care products, such as formaldehyde that can be found in hair straighteners and relaxers. Ecology’s own testing found formaldehyde releasers in products marketed to people of color. And recent studies found an increased risk of uterine cancer and breast cancer in Black women who used hair straightening products.
Ecology will adopt a final rule later this year based on feedback that they receive now.
Please tell Ecology that you support their strong draft rule to ban all formaldehyde releasers in cosmetics by submitting a comment or signing our petition.
Sample comment language:
I strongly support the Department of Ecology’s draft rule to ban ALL formaldehyde releasers in cosmetics. This rule is a critical step in protecting public health and the environment. Formaldehyde can cause cancer, harm brain function, increase the risk of asthma, and irritate eyes and skin. It can also impact fish. These chemicals have no place in the products we use on our bodies every day. Please finalize this draft rule that bans ALL formaldehyde releasers and ensures strong enforcement!