6 Surprising Places Formaldehyde Hides

Everyone knows formaldehyde exists, but not everyone knows they probably come into contact with it on a daily basis, if not several times a day.

So here’s a list of some of the more surprising places you might find this “probable carcinogen,” which can have multiple adverse effects on the body.

Children’s Bath Products
A 2009 report by the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics found that 23 of 28 baby products tested contained formaldehyde.

The Environmental Working Group’s Cosmetics Database has all kinds of baby shampoos and soaps listed as potentially containing formaldehyde.

Hair Products
Including a highly popular hair-smoothing treatment, the “Brazilian Blowout.” Hair gels and other personal products also contain formaldehyde.

Nail Polish
The Environmental Working Group also lists several brands of nail polish and other cosmetic products that contain formaldehyde.

Toothpaste
Formaldehyde is just one of many highly-questionable ingredients in many major toothpaste brands. (Triclosan is another.)

Soap and Body Wash
Products like liquid soap, including dish soap, and some body washes also contain formaldehyde.

And Around the House
Formaldehyde is often an ingredient in glue commonly used for woodworking, veneer and some lamination work. It’s also said to be in some insulation, plywood, and other building materials.