IARC Group 1 human carcinogen; causes nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia; potent contact allergen and respiratory sensitizer; banned in EU cosmetics and Indian cosmetics; US FDA proposed restrictions in 2023 especially for hair straighteners; note that formaldehyde releasers in cosmetics can generate free formaldehyde.
Function & Common Use
Preservative (banned in cosmetics; historically used as antimicrobial)
Preservatives
BANNED - formerly in nail hardeners, hair straighteners, sterilizing agents; still found as contaminant from formaldehyde-releasing preservatives
Synthetic
Concentration Limits
N/A (banned in cosmetics)
N/A (banned); exception: 0.1% for nail hardening products with warning; 0.2% for oral hygiene products (tooth hardeners)
Restricted; FDA issued proposed rule 2023; warning required if >0.1% in cosmetics; prohibited in hair straighteners under FHSA
N/A (banned)
Format restriction: BANNED in EU cosmetics (Annex II). Banned in India. Note: formaldehyde releasers (Bronopol, DMDM Hydantoin etc.) are separately regulated and some remain permitted at low levels.
Baby restriction: Yes
Pregnancy: Yes
IFRA: Yes - prohibited in all fragrance applications
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Formaldehyde safe to use in skincare?
Formaldehyde has a High concern rating. IARC Group 1 human carcinogen; causes nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia; potent contact allergen and respiratory sensitizer; banned in EU cosmetics and Indian cosmetics; US FDA proposed restrictions in 2023 especially for hair straighteners; note that formaldehyde releasers in cosmetics can generate free formaldehyde.
Is Formaldehyde allowed in India?
Formaldehyde is currently classified as "Banned" under Indian cosmetics regulations. The maximum permitted concentration is N/A (banned in cosmetics).
What is Formaldehyde used for in cosmetics?
Formaldehyde functions as: Preservative (banned in cosmetics; historically used as antimicrobial). It is commonly found in: BANNED - formerly in nail hardeners, hair straighteners, sterilizing agents; still found as contaminant from formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
Can Formaldehyde cause an allergic reaction?
Yes. Formaldehyde has an allergen flag (Yes). If you have sensitive skin or known fragrance/contact allergies, patch-test products containing this ingredient before full use.
Is Formaldehyde safe for babies?
Formaldehyde has baby/child restrictions: Yes. Avoid using products containing this ingredient on infants unless specifically formulated and labelled for baby use.
Regulatory Status
EU Annex: Annex II (banned) - entry No. 1577; banned in cosmetics including as preservative; tooth hardeners exception at 0.1%
Identifiers
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