Washington has become the first state in the US to ban formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in cosmetics.
The chemicals will be prohibited under the Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act (TFCA) and come into effect from 2027.
Cosmetics manufactured, sold, offered for sale or distributed in the state of Washington containing intentionally added formaldehyde-releasing chemicals will be restricted.
A deadline of 1 January 2027 has been put in place for the new rules to give companies time to reformulate products.
Retailers have been given until 31 December 2027 to sell through existing stock.
“There are cosmetics products on the market that do the same job without releasing these cancer-causing chemicals,” said Shari Franjevic from the Department of Ecology, State of Washington, who is leading the implementation of the act.
“Switching to safer chemicals will help to protect all Washington residents – particularly cosmetologists, stylists and people who work with these products every day.”
The department said in a statement it will be working with distributors and retailers, as well as cosmetics professionals and manufacturers, to help them understand the new requirements.
Formaldehyde is a preservative used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics and other preservatives may release formaldehyde over time, known as formaldehyde-releaseing preservatives (FRPs).
They are sometimes used in low concentrations in cosmetics and other personal care products like lotions, shampoos, conditioners, shower gels and some nail polishes, as well as hair smoothing treatments, according to the American Cancer Society.
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and has been linked to cancers in the nose and throat, leukaemia, as well as asthma and skin irritation.
Those working in hair and nail salons are thought to be at higher risk due to regular exposure in the workplace.
Women of colour are also said to be at greater risk due to the chemical in certain products used for hair relaxing and strengthening.
“Washington is leading the way by banning these cancer-causing chemicals in products like skin cream, hair styling gels and eye lash glue,” said Cheri Peele, Director of Government and Market Policy at Toxic-Free Future, a research and advocacy group.
“By taking this action, Washington state is putting the health of people first.
“Safer solutions are available, and we expect this landmark action to prompt the reformulation of products sold throughout the US.”
The rule defines an “intentionally added chemical” as one that serves an intended function in the final cosmetic product or an ingredient in the final cosmetic product, the group said.
Dr Ami Zota, tenured Associate Professor of Environmental Health Sciences at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, called the ban “a victory for science, health and justice”.
She added: “Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasers are well-documented hazards that no one should be exposed to in the products they use every day.
“This action especially matters for women of colour and salon workers who face the highest exposures – and it should inspire policymakers across the country to take similar steps to protect their communities.”