HARMFUL SUBSTANCES IN COSMETIC PREPARATIONS: THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN DECLARED AND ANALYZED

Abstract

Cosmetic preparations contain a large number of ingredients. Some of them may have negative consequences, most often in the form of allergic reactions, skin irritations, hormonal disorders, increased risk of cancer. These chemicals are most often added to protect, soften, or otherwise make the product more usable. The aim of this study was to determine the presence of some potentially harmful substances by qualitative analysis of cosmetic products using the GC-MS method and to compare results with the data stated on the product declaration. A total of 66 samples were analyzed: 10 baby shampoos and bath products, 26 cosmetic products
for the axillary area and 30 samples of creams and serums. In 4 samples of baby shampoos and bath products (40%) the presence of potentially harmful ingredients were proven (parabens and phenoxyethanol), while diethyl phtalate was detected in all samples but was not stated in any of the declarations of these samples. Parabens were detected in 7.7% of the products for application in the axillary area, although were most often not declared on products, and diethyl phthalate was detected in 19% of these samples. In
24 samples of creams and serums (80%) the presence of potentially harmful substances buthylhydroxytoluene, cyclopentasiloxane, cyclotetrasyloxan, benzophenone, triethanolamine, phenoxyethanol, diethylphthalate was noted. This study has proven the misleading declarations. Phthalates were most often not declared on products. Better regulation of product declarations is needed, as well as stricter controls on the impact of primary packaging on product composition after packaging.