Million Marker Research Institute study finds undisclosed chemicals in most personal care products

A study by the Million Marker Research Institute has found that nearly all tested personal care and cleaning products contain undisclosed chemicals. Researchers used nontargeted analysis to examine 113 products across 12 categories, including shampoos, sunscreens, baby lotions, and soaps.

On average, products contained 51 detected chemicals, which is more than three times the average of 16 ingredients listed on the labels. The study found that 98% of products contained at least one unlabeled chemical, and 85% contained at least one unlabeled chemical with known or suspected health hazards. These included endocrine-disrupting compounds like phthalates and parabens, fragrance chemicals, silicone contaminants, and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT).

Findings indicated that products marketed as “natural,” “non-toxic,” or “organic” frequently contained these undisclosed substances. One in four products contained chemicals that contradicted their packaging claims, such as “phthalate-free” items that actually contained phthalates. Approximately 60% of the products received a “fail” rating based on the concentration and danger of the unlabeled chemicals discovered. Exposure to these substances has been linked to health issues including infertility, miscarriage, obesity, diabetes, and potential carcinogens.