February 05, 2025

When it comes to personal care, safety is paramount. However, recent findings have raised concerns about several cosmetic products marketed as gel nail polish removers. It has been discovered that these products contain methylene chloride—a prohibited ingredient under 21 CFR 700.19, which explicitly bans its presence in cosmetics at any level.

What is Methylene Chloride?

Methylene chloride, also known as dichloromethane or methyl bichloride, is a volatile, colourless liquid with a sweet Odor. Commonly used in industrial processes such as paint stripping, manufacturing of paint removers, and metal cleaning and degreasing, methylene chloride poses serious health risks.

Why is Methylene Chloride Dangerous?

Exposure to methylene chloride is a significant health concern. Studies have shown that it causes cancer in animals, and its volatile nature makes it harmful to humans through inhalation or skin absorption. Symptoms of exposure can include dizziness, headaches, nausea, and even more severe effects like damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Prolonged exposure may increase the risk of cancer.

The Alarming Discovery

Several gel nail polish removers have been found to contain methylene chloride, including:

  • AL'IVER Nail Polish Quick Gel Remover (2024)
  • AL’IVER Professional MAGIC REMOVER (2024)
  • AIBRIT Gel Nail Polish Remover (2024)
  • BesTby Gel Nail Polish Remover (2024)

What’s even more concerning is that these products often fail to list methylene chloride on their labels. In some cases, it is disguised under other names, making it challenging for consumers to identify the risk.

Toxicological Tests and Reports for Methylene Chloride Exposure

To assess the health risks associated with methylene chloride exposure, the following toxicological tests and reports are typically conducted:

  • Acute Toxicity Tests: Evaluate the immediate health effects following short-term exposure, including oral, dermal, and inhalation routes.
  • Chronic Toxicity and Carcinogenicity Studies: Determine the long-term health effects, including cancer risk.
  • Genotoxicity Tests: Assess the potential of methylene chloride to damage genetic material.
  • Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity Tests: Examine the impact on reproductive health and fetal development.
  • Neurotoxicity Assessments: Evaluate potential adverse effects on the nervous system.
  • Dermal Absorption Studies: Measure the extent of skin absorption to understand exposure risks.
  • Risk Assessment Reports: Comprehensive evaluations that integrate exposure data with toxicity findings to estimate health risks.

How Maven Can Help

Maven offers end-to-end toxicological risk assessment and regulatory compliance services to address safety concerns related to methylene chloride exposure:

  • Toxicological Risk Assessment: Conduct detailed assessments to evaluate the potential health risks posed by cosmetic products containing methylene chloride.
  • Regulatory Compliance Support: Ensure that cosmetic products comply with international safety regulations, including 21 CFR 700.19.
  • Safety Data Sheet (SDS) Preparation: Develop comprehensive SDS documents to communicate hazards and safety precautions.
  • Product Label Review and Reformulation Guidance: Assist in identifying prohibited ingredients and suggest safer alternatives.
  • Exposure Assessment and Monitoring: Implement strategies to measure and minimize consumer exposure to harmful substances.
  • Training and Awareness Programs: Educate manufacturers and stakeholders on cosmetic safety regulations and best practices.

Final Thoughts

Consumer safety should never be compromised. Always stay informed about the products you use, read labels carefully, and rely on trusted brands that adhere to safety regulations. Maven is committed to creating a safer environment by providing expert toxicological risk assessments, regulatory support, and proactive safety solutions.

Conclusion

The presence of methylene chloride in cosmetic products is a critical health concern that requires immediate attention from both consumers and manufacturers. Continuous vigilance, strict regulatory compliance, and proactive safety measures are essential to mitigate these risks. Maven remains dedicated to supporting the cosmetics industry with expert toxicological assessments, regulatory guidance, and safety solutions to ensure consumer well-being and product safety worldwide.