A recent analysis has uncovered concerning findings regarding the safety of beauty products tailored for Black women. The study revealed that more than 3,000 beauty items aimed at this demographic contain ingredients that pose health risks. These products, ranging from hair straighteners to skin lightening creams, were found to contain at least one moderately hazardous component, with many containing multiple such substances.
This study builds upon a prior investigation conducted in 2016 that yielded similar results. Researchers speculate that the chemical composition of these beauty products may contribute to the heightened prevalence of certain diseases among Black women, including uterine and breast cancers. Despite some limited efforts to address hazardous substances by the federal government under the administration of Joe Biden, progress in this area remains insufficient, with concerns that advancements might be reversed.
According to Alexa Friedman, a senior scientist and co-author of the study from the Environmental Working Group (EWG), the cosmetics industry continues to fall short in ensuring the safety of its products. The analysis involved cross-referencing product ingredient lists with a database containing assessments of tens of thousands of chemicals based on their potential health risks, categorizing them as low, moderate, or high hazard. Of particular worry is the fact that women often use multiple products simultaneously, each potentially containing harmful chemicals.
Among the hazardous substances identified are formaldehyde, commonly used in hair straighteners, and quats, found in hair conditioners, both of which are associated with reproductive harm and cancer. Additionally, preservatives like isothiazolinones, present in cosmetics, have been linked to respiratory issues. The use of undisclosed “fragrance” compounds is also a significant concern, with thousands of chemicals falling under this category, some of which are associated with severe health risks, including impacts on fertility and hormone disruption.
While the study highlighted a decrease in the use of some of the most dangerous chemicals identified between 2016 and 2025, challenges persist. Several states have taken proactive measures to regulate the safety of cosmetics, with California and Maryland passing laws banning harmful chemicals. These state-level actions exert pressure on companies to reformulate their products nationwide, as producing different formulas for specific regions is logistically complex.
In light of these findings, consumers are encouraged to exercise caution and conduct thorough research to protect themselves. The EWG offers a comprehensive database evaluating the safety of over 120,000 personal care products, aiding consumers in making informed choices about the products they use. While there have been improvements in the industry, vigilance remains crucial for consumers, emphasizing the importance of intentional product selection to safeguard personal health and well-being.
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