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Cosmetic Products Containing Methylene Chloride

FDA has found several cosmetic products marketed as gel nail polish remover that contain methylene chloride as an ingredient. Methylene chloride is a prohibited ingredient, which is not allowed in cosmetics at any level (21 CFR 700.19) Methylene chloride is a volatile, colorless liquid with a sweet odor used in various industrial processes, including paint stripping, paint remover manufacturing, and metal cleaning and degreasing. 

Use of methylene chloride in cosmetics is a concern because it has been shown to cause cancer in animals and is likely harmful to human health. 

Cosmetics that contain methylene chloride as an ingredient often fail to identify it as an ingredient on the cosmetic product label. In addition, the ingredient is sometimes listed under other names such as dichloromethane or methyl bichloride.

The table below lists cosmetic products tested by FDA that were found to contain methylene chloride. Consumers should beware of purchasing and using any such products. If you have questions, call your health care professional or the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222; it is open 24 hours a day.

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