WASHINGTON òòò½ÊÓƵ“ is proposing a ban on certain chemicals in cosmetics that have been linked to cancer.ÌýÌý
said it is proposing a rule to restrict 28 additional formaldehyde-releasing chemicals in cosmetics made, sold, or distributed in Washington. The stateòòò½ÊÓƵ™s Toxic-Free Cosmetics Act already regulates several toxic chemicals in cosmetics, including formaldehyde.ÌýÌý
According to the department, formaldehyde and chemicals that release formaldehyde are commonly found in products such as nail polish, eyelash glue, shampoo, and hair gel. People can be exposed to these chemicals every time they use these products, and formaldehyde is known to cause cancer in humans.ÌýÌý
òòò½ÊÓƵœFormaldehyde-releasing chemicals are a special concern because theyòòò½ÊÓƵ™re in many cosmetic products routinely used by women, people of color and cosmetologists, increasing their exposure to harmful chemicals,òòò½ÊÓƵòòò½ÊÓƵsaid Shari Franjevic, the departmentòòò½ÊÓƵ™s implementation lead for the law.ÌýÌý
In addition to cancer, formaldehyde exposure can harm brain function, increase the risk of asthma, irritate the eyes and skin and cause allergic reactions, the department said.ÌýÌý
The department said that they are seeking public input on the proposed ban.òòò½ÊÓƵ
Public comment on the proposed rule opens 12 a.m. on Feb. 6 and ends 11:59 p.m. on April 11.òòò½ÊÓƵ Comments can be submitted by mailing Stacey Callaway, Washington Department of Ecology, 300 Desmond Drive SE, Lacey, WA 98504-7600, Attn: HWTR TFCA Rulemaking, or .ÌýÌý
An online public hearing will be held on and