An analysis of the chemical content of personal care and cleaning products published in Environment and Health found that 98% of the products contained unlabeled chemicals, and over a quarter contained chemicals that directly contradicted label claims.
In short:
- More than 3100 chemicals were detected in the 113 products examined, and 85% of the products contained at least one unlabeled harmful chemical.
- Products averaged over three times the number of chemicals listed on the labels.
- Many “natural,” “non-toxic,” and “fragrance-free” products contained undisclosed contaminants; even some “phthalate-free” products contained phthalates.
Key quote:
“These findings reveal substantial gaps in product transparency and demonstrate that ingredient labels alone cannot reliably convey product safety.”
Why this matters:
This study built on prior research from the Million Marker biomonitoring program showing that people could reduce some – but not all – of their exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals by reading labels and changing the products they use. This research highlights that undisclosed ingredients, mislabeling, and contamination could contribute to the unexplained continuing exposures. Relying on ingredient lists is not adequate, since some of the contaminants may arise during manufacturing or via packaging.
Related EHN coverage:
- Personal lifestyle changes can impact EDC exposure, and may even help reverse some health impacts
- “Nontoxic” nail polishes still contain toxic chemicals, despite claims
More resources:
- Million Marker
- EWG’s Skin Deep guide to personal care products
Source:
Schultz, Kim et al. for Environment and Health, Aug. 11, 2026.
