Chemical Called into Question

A number of activist groups recently reported that some personal care products were found to contain harmful levels of 1,4-Dioxane, an ether that can result during manufacturing. The group reported dozens of children's bath products and adults' personal care products were found to contain in some cases double the maximum level of 1,4-Dioxane allowed by the FDA.

The Cosmetic, Toiletry, and Fragrance Association (CTFA) posted statement in response to the recent studies published on 1,4-Dioxane. According to a statement, "The groups erroneously claim that, in 1985, the US Food and Drug Administration asked the cosmetic industry to voluntarily limit dioxane to 10 ppm. However, the FDA has set no limits for 1,4-Dioxane in cosmetics and personal care products, and the levels of 1,4-Dioxane reported in these products present no risk to consumers.”

The products that do contain 1,4-Dioxane, according to the CTFA, are safe and can be used with confidence. The CTFA maintains that, while the chemical may result as the byproduct of the preparation of shampoos and bubble baths, its presence is controlled. The organization also notes that manufacturers reduce the levels of the chemical as much as possible. Also, the CTFA reports that the levels reported by the environmental agencies prove that the cosmetic industry is successfully keeping the levels of the chemical low.