Formaldehyde On Your Skin!

A lot of personal care products contain formaldehyde. They can be masked by preservatives that release formaldehyde.

Formaldehyde is used to prevent bacteria from growing in products. It can be inhaled and absorbed through the skin and is linked to skin allergies and cancer.
It is used to preserve biological specimens, to process photography, glues for cabinet making and manufacture of vehicles ( transmission, electrical system, engine block, door panels, axles, brake shoes).
It is also used to kill unwanted virus' and bacteria during vaccine production and to dry the skin in treatments for warts.

This carcinogenic chemical is used to make fabrics crease-resistant (even in baby and kids clothing) therefor proving the importance of washing clothes before wearing them!

This is the chemical used for embalming for the temporary preservation of human and animal remains.

Other countries have restricted the use of this chemical but the United States continues to use it in production.
Labels don't usually say "formaldehyde" on their label but there are other words you can look for such as; Quaternium and Dimethyl. These are preservatives that slowly release formaldehyde over time.

Ingesting as little as 1oz of a solution containing 37% formaldehyde can cause death in an adult. Because this is used in so many construction materials, it is one of the more common indoor air pollutants.
At concentrations above 0.1 ppm in air formaldehyde can irritate the eyes and mucous membranes, resulting in watery eyes. Formaldehyde inhaled at this concentration may cause headaches, a burning sensation in the throat, and difficulty breathing, as well as triggering or aggravating asthma symptoms.
Exposure can even cause reproductive problems in women. It is associated with nasal sinus cancer and leukemia. It can come from pressed wood, paints, varnishes, floor finishes and cigarette smoke with the highest emitting levels in plywood, particle board and medium density fiberboard.

China illegally uses formaldehyde in the preservation of food.
Cosmetics containing formaldehyde can cause dermatitis.

Remember to read ALL ingredients before purchasing or using products. If you are unsure about anything, I would gladly do the research for you. :)

Resources: Organicauthority.com, Wikipedia.com