ICMAD Issues Position Statement

The Independent Cosmetic Manufacturers & Distributors (ICMAD) is issuing a statement that it joins the Personal Care Products Council, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and consumer groups that supported a safety review by the Independent Expert Cosmetic Ingredient Review Panel (CIR) of the use of formaldehyde/methylene glycol in professional hair straightening products.

“The CIR in its review reaffirmed its earlier finding regarding safe levels of use of these ingredients in cosmetic products at concentrations of 0.2% or less. Additionally CIR noted that use of these ingredients in hair straightening products with the application of heat could release formaldehyde gas, which is an irritant and sensitizer. We support the work of OSHA, its state counterparts in ensuring compliance with worker safety and hazard communication rules, and the work of FDA in ensuring that the safety of these products is substantiated and the labeling is compliant.”

ICMAD, founded in 1974, is a trade association of independent cosmetic manufacturers, distributors and suppliers of services and components to the cosmetic industry.