New York Takes Bold Action on 1,4-Dioxane in Personal Care Products

On September 24, 2024, New York took a pioneering step: It became the first state in the U.S. to adopt regulations reducing the presence of 1,4-dioxane, a synthetic chemical linked to health risks, in household and personal care products, including cosmetics. The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced that these regulations are designed to protect consumers, safeguard water quality, and foster healthier communities, reassuring the public about their safety and well-being.

What is 1,4-Dioxane?

1,4-Dioxane is a synthetic industrial chemical commonly used as a stabilizer in various formulations, including personal care products like shampoos, laundry detergents, and other household cleaners. Although not added intentionally, it can be present as a byproduct or contaminant, making it challenging for manufacturers and regulators alike to address. The U.S. FDA has identified 1,4-dioxane as a potential carcinogen, meaning long-term exposure could lead to cancer.

New Regulations to Limit 1,4-Dioxane

According to the DEC, the newly adopted regulations will strengthen efforts to reduce 1,4-dioxane in cosmetics, household cleaners, and personal care products. Specifically, these regulations:

  • Set a limit of 10 parts per million (ppm) for 1,4-dioxane in cosmetic products.
  • Impose stricter limits of 1 ppm for household cleansers and personal care items.
  • Provide a standardized method for measuring 1,4-dioxane levels in products.
  • Clarify the manufacturing process for requesting waivers where needed.

These new limits aim to ensure that products sold in New York comply with health and safety standards, helping to reduce the environmental and health risks posed by 1,4-dioxane.

Why This Matters

The presence of 1,4-dioxane in groundwater is a significant concern, particularly in regions like Long Island, where it has been detected in drinking water sources. Removing this contaminant from water supplies requires complex and costly treatment technologies. By regulating the levels of 1,4-dioxane in products, New York is taking proactive steps to reduce the introduction of this harmful substance into the environment.

Sean Mahar, the interim commissioner of the DEC, emphasized the importance of this regulation, stating: “Protecting the health and well-being of New Yorkers is paramount, and science has shown that ongoing exposure to certain chemicals like 1,4-dioxane can harm public health and water quality.”

Industry Response and Broader Impact

Manufacturers are now expected to take action to comply with these new regulations. Advocacy groups like the Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) have strongly supported these efforts. Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of CCE, noted, “No longer are we washing our clothes, hair, bodies, and babies with high levels of this toxin. Manufacturers can remove 1,4-dioxane from their products, and the newly adopted regulations provide additional clarity.”

Illinois also follows New York’s lead by implementing sustainability measures, such as banning single-use plastic bottles in hotels. This highlights a broader movement toward safer, eco-friendly consumer products in the U.S.

What’s Next for the Cosmetic Industry?

The implications of New York’s regulations for cosmetic brands are clear: compliance with these stricter standards will not only be necessary to sell products in the state. Still, it will also likely become a benchmark for other U.S. states. Brands that proactively address 1,4-dioxane contamination and prioritize safer, cleaner formulations will be better positioned for future regulatory shifts.

CE.way is here to guide you through these complex regulatory changes as a company focused on cosmetic regulation and safety. Our expertise ensures that your products remain compliant with evolving standards while maintaining the highest safety and efficacy for your consumers.