Can Skin Care Products Cause Cancer? What the Research Really Says
We all want healthy, glowing skin—but could some of our favorite skin care products be doing more harm than good? While most products are safe when used as directed, some ingredients have raised red flags in scientific studies for their potential cancer risks. Here's what the research says:
1. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
These are used to keep products free from bacteria and mold. But formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen, and some preservatives (like DMDM hydantoin and quaternium-15) slowly release formaldehyde over time.
Research:
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies formaldehyde as Group 1: carcinogenic to humans.
Source: IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, 2012.
Link
2. Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, etc.)
Parabens are preservatives that prevent products from spoiling. But they can mimic estrogen, and this hormone-disrupting effect has raised concerns about breast cancer risk.
Research:
One study found traces of parabens in breast tumor tissue, although it didn’t prove causation. While parabens exhibit weak estrogenic activity and have been detected in breast tissue, current evidence does not conclusively demonstrate that they cause cancer in humans. Ongoing research aims to clarify their safety profile.
Source: Darbre PD et al., Journal of Applied Toxicology, 2004.
DOI: 10.1002/jat.958
3. 1,4-Dioxane (a contaminant, not an ingredient)
Some products with ingredients like PEGs, laureth compounds, or polysorbates can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane—a probable human carcinogen.
Research:
U.S. National Toxicology Program considers 1,4-dioxane a probable carcinogen based on animal studies.
Source: NTP Technical Report, 2016.
Link
4. Benzoyl Peroxide (in acne treatments)
Popular in acne products, benzoyl peroxide can generate benzene, a known carcinogen, when stored improperly (especially at high temperatures).
Recent Findings:
Independent lab Valisure found benzene in benzoyl peroxide acne products.
The FDA is currently investigating.
Source: Valisure Citizen Petition to FDA, 2024.
5. Ethanolamines (DEA, TEA)
These ingredients may form nitrosamines, which are potential carcinogens, especially when combined with other chemicals.
Research:
Nitrosamines are recognized as probable carcinogens by IARC.
Source: IARC Monograph Vol. 77.
Link
So, What Should You Do?
While the science isn't always black and white, here are a few tips:
Check ingredient labels for the above substances
Store products correctly (cool, dry places)
Look for certifications (like EWG Verified or “Clean” labels)
Use dermatologist-recommended brands with transparent ingredient lists
Final Thoughts
Most people use skin care products safely every day, but it’s good to be informed. Some ingredients may pose a risk when used long-term, in high concentrations, or under specific conditions. If you’re concerned, talk to your dermatologist or look for products that avoid controversial chemicals.
References (AMA Style):
International Agency for Research on Cancer. Chemical Agents and Related Occupations. IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, Volume 100F; 2012.
Darbre PD, Aljarrah A, Miller WR, Coldham NG, Sauer MJ, Pope GS. Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumours. J Appl Toxicol. 2004;24(1):5-13. doi:10.1002/jat.958
National Toxicology Program. NTP Technical Report on the Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of 1,4-Dioxane; 2016.
Valisure. Citizen Petition on Benzoyl Peroxide Products. https://www.valisure.com/valisure-newsroom/valisure-files-fda-petition-on-benzoyl-peroxide-products/; 2024.
International Agency for Research on Cancer. Some Industrial Chemicals. IARC Monographs on the Evaluation of Carcinogenic Risks to Humans, Volume 77; 2000.
