CHLOROFORM
What is it?
“Chloroform, or trichloromethane, is an organic compound with formula CHCl3. It is a colorless, sweet-smelling, dense liquid that is produced on a large scale as a precursor to PTFE.” –Wikipedia
What are the effects?
This substance belongs to the groups:
The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) identifies that the substance is “toxic if inhaled, causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure, is harmful if swallowed, causes serious eye irritation, is suspected of causing cancer, is suspected of damaging fertility or damaging the unborn child, causes skin irritation and may cause drowsiness or dizziness.”
The substance is prohibited for use in cosmetics in Canada and the European Union.
The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics, a project of Breast Cancer Prevention Partners (previously the Breast Cancer Fund) have registered that the substance might contaminate triclosan.
Possible contamination
The following substances may contain impurities from chloroform. They will be highlighted by our system and you can read more about them on their respective page:
How is it used?
Chloroform is used in various pesticides as a solvent in for example for resins, fats and oils. It can also be found as a cleansing agent in various products. Although it’s unlikely to find chloroform on the ingredients lists, the substance might exist as an impurity in cosmetic products*.
We use the European Commissions definition of Cosmetics:
“Cosmetics range from everyday hygiene products such as soap, shampoo, deodorant, and toothpaste to luxury beauty items including perfumes and makeup”.
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