1,4-dioxane is a trace contaminant in some cosmetic and personal care products. Although not intentionally added, it is a by-product of the ethoxylation processes used to manufacture commonly used ingredients in the formulation of cosmetics and personal care products.. These ingredients may include sodium laureth sulfate, polyethylene glycol or PEG, polypropylene glycol or PPG, polyoxyethylene ether sulfate, polyethylene, polysorbate and ingredients with suffixes that include -oxynol-, -ceteareth- and -oleth-. It may also be introduced into these products during the manufacturing process from processing aids and manufacturing equipment.

In 2016 a report by the Department of Health and Human Services National Toxicology Program (NTP) found that 1,4-dioxane is "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen based on sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity from studies in experimental animals," Although there is still no factual evidence as to the effects of long term human exposure, the EPA has classified 1,4-dioxane as "likely to be carcinogenic to humans,". In the absence of stringent federal regulations, a number of states, such as California and New York, have enacted stricter regulations for 1,4-dioxane. Consequently, in December 2019 New York passed legislation lowering the acceptable amount of 1,4-dioxane allowed in household cleaning, cosmetics and personal care products from 10 parts per million (ppm) to 1 ppm by the end of 2023.

How Quantum Can Help

Our laboratory is equipped with highly sensitive multiple Headspace GC and Headspace GC-MS instruments, including tandem ms/ms, capable of meeting both current and future testing requirements. And, our highly experienced scientists can assist you in meeting the challenges of reducing or eliminating 1,4-Dioxane in your cosmetic, personal care and household cleaners to meet these newly enacted limits.