Formaldehyde (free) vs Homosalate: which is worse?
Quick answer: Formaldehyde (free) carries the heavier risk profile. Formaldehyde (free) is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Homosalate is restricted in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Formaldehyde (free) | Homosalate |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Restricted |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | medium |
| Banned in | European Union | — |
| Restricted in | — | European Union |
| Category | cmr | uv filter |
| Where it hides | nail hardener, keratin treatment, eyelash glue | sunscreen, SPF moisturizer, SPF foundation |
What is Formaldehyde (free)?
Formaldehyde (free) is free formaldehyde used directly as a preservative and in salon hair treatments.
What is Homosalate?
Homosalate is an organic UV filter that absorbs UVB radiation.
Documented risks
Formaldehyde (free): A known human carcinogen (IARC Group 1). Banned from direct use in EU cosmetics; allowed in US products with limited oversight.
Homosalate: A suspected endocrine disruptor; the EU limits it to 7.34% in face products (2025), well below typical US concentrations.
Got either one in your pantry?
Scan a barcode and we'll flag both Formaldehyde (free) and Homosalate (plus 200+ other ingredients banned overseas).
Scan free →