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Carcinogenic Substance Screening in Cosmetics: Trusted Brands

How to recognize trusted brands?

Carcinogenic Substance Screening in Cosmetics: Trusted Brands

Cosmetic products have become an integral part of our lives in many areas such as skin care, makeup, hair care and personal hygiene. However, some cosmetic products may contain carcinogenic or harmful chemicals. For consumers, recognizing trusted brands and detecting harmful ingredients is valuable for healthy skin and overall health.

What are carcinogens and why are they dangerous?

Carcinogens are chemicals that can cause cancer or increase the risk of cancer in the human body in the long term. These substances can be absorbed through the skin and enter the body through inhalation or ingestion, causing adverse health effects.

Common Carcinogens Found in Cosmetic Products

  • Parabens ( Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben): Used as preservatives, these chemicals can mimic the hormone estrogen in the body, disrupting hormone balance and increasing the risk of breast cancer.
  • Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde Release Agents (DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Diazolidinyl Urea, Quaternium-15): Can be found in hair care products, nail polish, shampoo and mascara. Inhalation can irritate the respiratory tract and long-term exposure may increase the risk of cancer.
  • Phthalates ( Dibutyl Phthalate - DBP, Diethyl Phthalate - DEP, Dimethyl Phthalate - DMP): Used as plasticizers in products such as perfume, nail polish, hair sprays. May adversely affect reproductive health and cause hormone disorders.
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES): Used as foaming agents in shampoos, toothpaste and facial cleansers. May cause skin irritation and sensitization and may damage the skin barrier in long-term use.
  • Triclosan (Triclosan, Triclocarban): Can be found in antibacterial soaps, toothpastes and deodorants. It can have a negative effect on the endocrine system by disrupting hormone balance and may increase the risk of cancer in the long term.
  • Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs): Can be found in cosmetics containing petroleum-based ingredients. When absorbed through the skin, they can increase the risk of skin cancer.
  • Benzophenone and Oxybenzone: Used as UV filters in sunscreens. Caution should be taken due to their hormone disrupting effects.


How to Identify Reliable Cosmetic Brands?

  • Brands with a Clean Content Policy: Products marketed as “clean ingredient” or “chemical-free” have formulas that do not contain harmful chemicals.
  • Natural and Organic Certified Products: Products with certificates such as ECOCERT, USDA Organic, COSMOS Organic are free from harmful substances.
  • Cruelty-Free and Vegan Brands: Brands with certificates such as Nanocert Certification guarantee animal-friendly and ethical production.
  • Fragrance and Synthetic Chemical Free Products: Products with the “Fragrance-Free” label are generally free of phthalates and synthetic fragrances.
  • Transparent Ingredient Policy: Is the content detailed on the brand's website? Is it informative about harmful chemicals?

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Cosmetic Analysis.

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