What is 1,4-dioxane?
In cosmetics, detergents, baby washes, shampoos, pharmaceuticals, and other personal care products 1,4-dioxane is a trace contaminant. It is not necessarily added to these personal care products, but rather occurs as a byproduct in some ingredients [2]. In products like liquid soaps and bubble baths, 1,4-dioxane is an ingredient that helps create suds [3].What products is 1,4-dioxane in?
1,4-dioxane is in many different products like cosmetics, shampoos, baby soaps, deodorants, cosmetics, personal care products and shampoos [1]. It is also in dyes, greases, varnishes, paint strippers, waxes, food additives and pesticides.How to tell if a product has 1,4-dioxane
The chemical 1,4-dioxane tends to be present when a particular product has been through “ethoxylation”. Look for ingredients ending with -eth, -oxynol, -xynol and those containing the words laureate, myrrh, ceteareth or oleth. Other compounds include: PEG, polyethylene, polyethylene glycol, polyoxyethylene, or oxynol [1].Risks associated with 1,4-dioxane
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, even small amounts of this chemical can cause health problems [1]. Exposure to 1,4-dioxane can cause a cumulative effect in the body that can cause the following problems:- Nose and eye irritation
- Liver problems
- Kidney damage [2] [1]
- Cancer [1] [3] [2] [4]
- Reproductive issues [1]
- Birth defects [3]
- Death [2]