Four shampoo samples contain chemicals potentially damage unborn children: Consumer Council

The Consumer Council reported that among the 25 shampoo samples tested, four were found to contain zinc pyrithione (ZPT) -- an anti-dandruff ingredient banned under European Union (EU) regulations. The substance poses potential risks to unborn children.

The four samples were Hair Corner's "Anti Dandruff Shampoo 300ml," Petal Fresh Pure's "Hair ResQ Thickening Treatment Biotin Shampoo (Thickening + Anti-Dandruff)," Clear's "Clear Men Shampoo 750ml - Oil Control," and Philip B.'s "Anti-Flake Relief Shampoo Lite Scalp Savior For Dry Itchy Scalps."

The samples were detected with ZPT at concentrations ranging from 0.19 to 0.95 percent.

The watchdog said animal studies indicate ZPT may lead to allergic contact dermatitis and can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the eyes. However, it also pointed out that ZPT is an approved active ingredient in over-the-counter drug products by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Furthermore, the levels of ZPT found in the samples tested met the Mainland's safety standards for cosmetics.

The result came after the Council tested 25 models of anti-dandruff shampoo ranging from HK$50 to HK$430 per bottle, and the test covered four anti-dandruff active ingredients, including ZPT, piroctone olamine, climbazole, and salicylic acid, as well as chemical safety.

In total, 10 samples were detected with another active ingredient salicylic acid. One of which had a concentration as high as 1.9 percent and may be categorized as an over-the-counter drug if sold in the US. However, most of these products did not carry the warning label "not to be used for children under 3 years of age" per EU requirements.

The test also found fragrance allergens in over 90 percent of the models, of which two were detected with fragrance allergen butylphenyl methylpropional (BMHCA), which was banned in EU due to its reproductive toxicity.

Furthermore, eight models were found with galaxolide (HHCB), which is not only allergenic but also highly toxic to aquatic life and not readily biodegradable.

The Council urges manufacturers to proactively review their product formulae and avoid using chemical substances that have been prohibited internationally. The watchdog also urged them to enhance the transparency of labeling information to help consumers address dandruff concerns.