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Lotion, shampoo & wash
Some lotions, shampoos, and washes use formaldehyde-releasing preservatives that slowly release formaldehyde over time. Formaldehyde is classified by IARC as a Group 1 carcinogen, and these preservatives are also a leading cause of contact allergy. To be crystal clear: switching is an exposure-reduction choice — I'm not promising it prevents anything. I just pick formulas that leave them out.
Look for instead: scan the ingredient list for the four names below and pick formulas that skip them. Favor a disclosed scent and plant-based where you can.
Scan the label for — and skip:
DMDM hydantoinquaternium-15imidazolidinyl ureadiazolidinyl urea
How strong is the evidence? The firmest in the guide — the IARC classification is a hard regulatory fact. But it's about the chemical; my swap is exposure reduction, never a personal health promise.
