Formaldehyde (free) vs Lead acetate: which is worse?
Quick answer: Both score equally on our risk model. Formaldehyde (free) is banned in the EU and allowed in the US; Lead acetate is banned in the EU and allowed in the US.
| Property | Formaldehyde (free) | Lead acetate |
|---|---|---|
| EU status | Banned | Banned |
| US status | Allowed | Allowed |
| Risk level | high | high |
| Banned in | European Union | European Union |
| Restricted in | — | — |
| Category | cmr | heavy metal |
| Where it hides | nail hardener, keratin treatment, eyelash glue | progressive hair dye, men's hair color |
What is Formaldehyde (free)?
Formaldehyde (free) is free formaldehyde used directly as a preservative and in salon hair treatments.
What is Lead acetate?
Lead acetate is a lead compound used in progressive darkening hair dyes.
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.
Lead acetate: Lead is a potent neurotoxin with no safe level. Banned in EU cosmetics; the US FDA revoked its authorization in 2018.
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