Are you using face creams, aftershaves, toothpaste, shampoos, or deodorants thinking they're benefiting your skin? Think again. Daily use of these products could be exposing you to harmful toxins, according to a comprehensive study by UFC-Que Choisir, France's leading consumer advocacy group.
After rigorously testing 237 popular cosmetic and hygiene products for adults and babies, the organization uncovered alarming levels of concerning substances. As experts in consumer protection with decades of experience analyzing product safety, UFC-Que Choisir has compiled a database of these risks to empower informed choices.
The study spotlighted a range of daily essentials, identifying 'substances of concern' including toxins, allergens, irritants, and endocrine disruptors. Key findings:
No brand is immune, even premium ones. Private labels and big names alike use these chemicals. UFC-Que Choisir highlighted long-chain parabens in products from Roc (3 products), L’Oréal (2), Carrefour (2), Leclerc (2), and 17 others.
Babies' delicate skin isn't spared: Wipes from Cadum, Mixa, Nivea, Pampers contain phenoxyethanol, a preservative risky for blood and liver health. Despite 'hypoallergenic' labels on items like Mots d’enfants de Leclerc toilet milk, Corine de Farme diaper cream, and Physél ia Intimate cleansers, they tested positive for MIT—the 2013 'Allergen of the Year' per dermatologists.
Without binding regulations, packaging claims can't be trusted, stresses UFC-Que Choisir.
The group calls for stricter protections. In the meantime, download their reference card for safe shopping and check the free chemical database on Que Choisir.org. This aligns with findings from the European NGO WECF on baby product risks.
Here’s the complete list of flagged products containing toxic substances:
A-derma - Baby Primalba Gentle Cleansing Gel
Activilong - Junior, ultra-smoothing magic spray, sweet almond
Activilong - Junior, no-lye conditioner relaxer system
Adidas - 48h antiperspirant, Climacool
Adidas - Fresh Cool & Dry 48h antiperspirant spray
Williams - Protect+, 48h, Fresh control, extreme freshness, compressed
As someone who's reviewed countless product labels and tested homemade alternatives, I always scrutinize the ingredients list on the back. Multiple lines of unpronounceable chemicals like 'methylisothiazolinone'? Pass. Opt for organic options with recognizable ingredients.
If budget is tight, make your own. On comment-economiser.fr, find trusted recipes including:
