Johnson & Johnson admits: Our baby products contain cancer-causing formaldehyde
August 15, 2012 at 9:32 pm 238 comments
No more tears? I would rather have no more formaldehyde. I just might get my wish.
Don’t cry! They finally are concerned about your safety!
Today, the personal care giant announced that it would voluntarily (after consistent pressure from the public and groups like EWG) remove hidden formaldehyde from their baby products like baby shampoo and baby washes. Don’t see formaldehyde listed on the back of your bottle of “no more tears” shampoo? Formaldehyde is “hidden” in these products in ingredient names like “DMDM hydantoin“, and “1,4 dioxane” (which is “hidden” in listed ingredients like “fragrance”. It’s all a big fun game, you see.).
“There’s a very lively public discussion going on about the safety of ingredients in personal care products,” said Susan Nettesheim, VP for product stewardship and toxicology for J & J.
Lively discussion? If someone was selling you shampoo for your baby that had cancer causing agents hidden in it, I hardly think the discussion with that person would be “lively”.
About the known cancer causing (as listed on the US EPA carcinogen list) chemicals, Ms Nettesheim says, ““…as a scientist I will sit here and tell you these things are perfectly safe.” (I wonder what shampoo she uses on her kids)
To J & J’s credit, they are also going to phase out other harmful chemicals like pthalates and parabens which have estrogen-like properties and are suspected to be linked to hormone related cancers. They plan to phase these chemicals out in their adult brands as well. Johnson & Johnson also operates under squeaky clean names like Neutrogena, Aveno, and Clean & Clear.
Hopefully this will have a domino effect and other big names will follow. I would score this as a victory for everyone who wants to wash their kid’s hair without risk of exposing them to carcinogens.
I would advise you to wait to use the new J & J products until you see the big bright labels that say “No more carcinogens!”
As The Savvy Sister says ” Your skin is a carrier…NOT a barrier!”
Read more here.
Check your currents brand’s safety here at Good Guide
and here at EWG’s data base.
If you plan to comment, please note I don’t publish any comments that are rude, are yelling in caps or that are directed towards other comments and comment-ors in a negative way. Thanks very much! Peace & Namaste!
And if you’re interested in finding out how to stay healthy and reduce your risk of cancer in general, don’t forget about our (Florence and me) book due to be released in August at the National Women’s Survivors Convention in Nashville. YeeHa!
Entry filed under: cancer prevention, cosmetic safety, environmental hazards, health and safety. Tags: formaldehyde, Johnson and Johnson, parabens, pthalates.
238 Comments Add your own
So whaddya think?
Trackback this post | Subscribe to the comments via RSS Feed
1.
bwebbjr | August 15, 2012 at 9:39 pm
Alarming findings … thanks for spreading awareness!
2.
The Savvy Sister | August 17, 2012 at 11:01 am
Your welcome…It’s what I do
3.
judiththomasberg | August 16, 2012 at 1:46 am
Thanks for the very informative info.
I hate when I learn these things, they scare the shit out of me!
Why would anyone, knowingly expose kids to that??
4.
The Savvy Sister | August 17, 2012 at 11:00 am
“I hate when I learn these things, they scare the shit out of me!” Oh…then don’t read any of my other posts
5.
sickofitall | May 14, 2013 at 8:27 pm
They don’t care, it’s all about the money and that is all that counts! Idiots!
6.
kellie@foodtoglow | August 16, 2012 at 3:00 am
Thanks for bringing this to our attention. Although my daughter is 16 and that boat has sailed regarding baby products, I really appreciate the link to the Good Guide and plan on popping it in a recommended links section on my blog for my US readers (don’t know how relevant it is to UK and others as different regs and products). And, doesn’t J&J market itself as ‘the family company’? Some family. As always, fantastic work. You consistently highlight such interesting, relevant and sometimes horrifying things.
7.
The Savvy Sister | August 17, 2012 at 10:59 am
This is why advertising gets the biggest budget line. If we “feel” good about the company, we buy.
Thanks for your comment and nice words Kellie! Great recipe on today’s blog BTW!
http://www.foodtoglow.wordpress.com
8.
Gonzo | August 16, 2012 at 6:32 am
Sad that these giant corporations get away with so much. Thanks for sharing the news.
9.
Yuri | August 17, 2012 at 2:33 am
Hi, it’s been a while since last time I visited your blog! I miss your research based information!
What a disappointing news. I was totally shocked by the fact that trustworthy (for babies and moms) big company does this. Thank you for the info!
10.
The Savvy Sister | August 17, 2012 at 10:57 am
Thanks Yuri! I miss you!
It’s not surprising that health and well being takes a back seat to money.
11.
Dani Katarina | August 17, 2012 at 10:52 am
Thank you so much for this post! I have shared it on my facebook page for The Healthy Hippie as well as on my personal one. I know way too many mothers out there, and I would hate for them not to know the dangers of these BIG Name Brand Companies and their harmful products!
MOON-Organics should one day come out with baby products!
12.
The Savvy Sister | August 17, 2012 at 10:56 am
Thanks Dani! Baby products are definitely in the long term plans!
http://www.MOON-Organics.com
13.
Katie | August 20, 2012 at 11:00 am
Whaa!?? Sometimes I feel like I am wearing a blindfold. Thanks 8)
14.
The Savvy Sister | August 20, 2012 at 11:03 am
Teehee Welcome
15.
robertakitchen | August 20, 2012 at 4:25 pm
I didn’t know any of this. Thank you for sharing
16.
The Savvy Sister | August 20, 2012 at 4:27 pm
My pleasure! The best bath oil for babies is Kukui nut oil. Very safe and gentle and is wonderful for babies’ skin (and yours!) You can get some at http://www.Mountainroseherbs.com.
17.
Kaho | September 14, 2012 at 8:33 am
OH NO!! I used J&J’s no more tears shampoo with all 3 of my kids!!! Drat! Thanks for the information.
18.
Sheri Wilcox | December 11, 2012 at 3:20 pm
Thanks for sharing this important information and helping to create more awareness. I used these products for years and mistakenly trusted that they were safe for my children. I am thankful to know better now, and especially grateful to have found an American manufacturer that specializes in better, safer, and more affordable products for our family!
19.
The Savvy Sister | December 11, 2012 at 3:31 pm
Hopefully with new labeling regulations and a better public awareness, we can foil the manufacturer’s plan to foil us.
20.
babyzcare | February 10, 2013 at 2:40 am
This was really shocking how the hell we prefer these products for our baby daily uses, as Johnson & Johnson admits that their baby products are consisting of cancer causing formaldehyde that ultimately helps to increases the risk of cancer among the small babies.
21.
The Savvy Sister | February 10, 2013 at 6:42 am
Unfortunately this goes on a lot more than we’d like to imagine Thanks for the comment
22.
beautifulchelle | May 13, 2013 at 11:15 pm
I don’t understand why everyone gets so up-in-arms about formadahyde in their baby shampoo, yet ignores the fact that it is also found in every vaccination that they knowingly and willingly inject directly into their babies’ tiny bodies.
23.
Scottie Mac | May 15, 2013 at 10:57 pm
^^ You win, my friend. ^^
24.
Sandy Steel | May 17, 2013 at 2:37 am
No formaldahyde in any of the baby or childrens vaccines. There is a minute amount in the Flu vaccine for preservation purposes – but no way near enough to cause damage on a one off. Unlike repeated exposure to J & J products. As a Child & Family Nurse I have been telling new parents not to use J & J products for years. Also, women should give their baby powder a wide berth as well, it can cause cancer of the cervix.
25.
Mamabearof4 | May 20, 2013 at 7:16 pm
There is too. And a minimal is more than enough when injecting directly into the blood stream.
26.
Mamabearof4 | May 20, 2013 at 7:21 pm
http://www.fda.gov/BiologicsBloodVaccines/SafetyAvailability/VaccineSafety/ucm187810.htm
27.
Jason | May 20, 2013 at 8:27 pm
@Mamabearof4: No vaccines are injected directly into the bloodstream. Even if they were, the amount of formaldehyde in any single vaccine (or even a group of them) is on the order of micrograms. Even an infant’s body produces more than that on its own, via natural processes.
28.
brandi | May 17, 2013 at 9:39 pm
I thought the same thing when I read the headline. Parents are so disturbed about formaldyde in soap and baby clothing and are quick to inject them with it. Thanks for pointing that out
29.
Tanya | May 14, 2013 at 12:53 am
All there products ? I have a bunch !!
what exactly do I have to look for on the labels
30.
The Savvy Sister | May 14, 2013 at 6:35 am
sodium laureth sulfate (not lauryl) ,DMDM hydantoin, fragrance, parfum, diacetyl, etc.(there are many many more) Check out EWG’s site (http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/)to check your ingredients in the products you have. Everyone should be doing this especially if you’re using commercial products on your kids. You can type in the ingredient and the list will tell you how harmful it is. But it’s a lot easier to just go with products that you can trust and are natural. (We all know what “lavender” is for example. If you have to look up the ingredient….probably not healthy…)
And it’s not just Johnson & Johnson products. Many many other products contain harmful ingredients as well. It’s up to you to find out if what is going into your kids bodies is healthy for them or not. Thanks for the comment! Your a good mom!
31.
Momsie | May 14, 2013 at 10:29 am
This absolutely pisses me off, it is just disgusting!! I have been using J & J on my 2 month old daughter since she was born!! If the government wasnt so wkrried about killing everyone on earth maybe we wouldnt mind giving them our hard earnings!!
32.
The Savvy Sister | May 14, 2013 at 11:53 am
I feel your frustration, but the thing is, it’s not just J&J that’s guilty and we can’t rely on the government to help protect us from anything. It all rests on our shoulders to keep ourselves and our families safe an healthy. I’m sure your daughter is fine, but now that you know, you can find products that are healthier (and I don’t mean Burt’s Bees….)
Thanks for your comment!
33.
paidinchina | May 16, 2013 at 12:16 pm
I thought Burt’s Bees usually did pretty well on the Ewg website?
34.
Sandra | May 14, 2013 at 11:59 am
I used these products for years on my children in the 80′s. It’s horrifying to find this out now.
35.
The Savvy Sister | May 14, 2013 at 12:39 pm
No use crying over spilled shampoo…healthy bodies are able to deal with a certain amount of these carcinogens very nicely. Babies are resilliant, but it’s getting harder to protect them from all the things that can harm their systems….not just personal care stuff… So now that they’re grown, if they eat a plant-based diet, are not over weight and exercise, your kids will be just fine despite the nasty hair washings
36.
Clare Kennedy | May 14, 2013 at 5:15 pm
I think this artcle is bullshit. I would like to see the research and official statement from Johnson and johnson. This article is definitely fear mongering. Show me the research from the experts (Doctors and Research Technicians) and their credentials. Thanks.
37.
Jack Black | May 14, 2013 at 7:35 pm
so prove that it is bullshit through your own research?
38.
scratchthatwanda | May 14, 2013 at 8:34 pm
Clare, you will not find it on their site. You will find it on reputable news sites though since they admitted it in an interview with the AP.
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-504763_162-57493890-10391704/johnson-johnson-to-phase-out-potentially-harmful-chemicals-by-2015/
39.
Mary Ann Gallant | May 14, 2013 at 7:17 pm
I read up above that you do not recommend Burt’s Bees when suggesting to find healthier products. Can you explain a bit. I have used Burt’s Bees lotion on my skin. Is it not safe? And I am not surprised at all with J&J or any other large conglomerate.They only care about profit….and don’t give a hoot about the people using their products. (young or old)
40.
The Savvy Sister | May 14, 2013 at 9:27 pm
Burt’s bees was started by a concerned bee keeper who wanted to share his stuff and his love of nature….but his ex-wife took all his money (most of the $191 million she sold it Clorox for) and Burt lives in a chicken coop (or that’s where he was living a few years ago) If you look at their formulations carefully, you will see some additions of a few chemicals that weren’t there before even though Clorox said when they purchased the company in 2008 that nothing would change. (Burt’s Bees tested positive for lead in their lip color, for example)
Once a huge corporation takes over the company and starts messing with the motivation of the product, I refuse to buy it. It’s just bad energy to me….
41.
Jack Black | May 14, 2013 at 7:29 pm
it seems that shampoo, like toothpaste, serves no purpose
42.
sheriwilcox | May 15, 2013 at 5:10 am
I am thankful our family found Melaleuca, a U.S. company based in Idaho Falls that manufactures responsibly and keeps their prices very reasonable so it’s easy for any American family to shop for safer and more effective products without straining the family budget. Their products are free of formaldehyde, ammonia, bleach, or any caustic chemicals. I tried several green companies before finding this company, and their products are far superior to any eco-friendly products I have used in the past, and cost a lot less. Our family has been shopping with them for two years, and we couldn’t be happier. I also help people set up shopping accounts with the company and then they shop online or by phone with Melaleuca wholesale factory direct. All of their products come with an empty bottle refund policy and their customer service is exceptional.
43.
Mand3licious | May 16, 2013 at 5:28 am
Melaleuca is quite literally the best thing I ever found for my family.
44.
Sheri Wilcox | May 16, 2013 at 7:32 am
I agree, Mand3licious!
45.
Miranda H | May 18, 2013 at 1:10 pm
sheriwilcox, I am interested in Melaleuca. How does it work? Have you ever worked for them?
46.
scratchthatwanda | May 14, 2013 at 8:36 pm
I am very blessed to have friends who are into checking labels, They warned me away from Aveeno and Burt’s Bees and J/A/S/O/N. I don’t go to to EWG. I just ask if something is good and they tell me.
(“Leaf and Bud Naturals” is the name of their store, if anyone is interested in products that have been thoroughly researched.)
47.
Curtis | May 16, 2013 at 4:55 am
What is wrong with Burt’s Bees products?
48.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 6:24 am
Many of their products are fine. They have a huge products line and are now manufacturing cosmetics. You just need to check the ingredient list and feel comfortable about the company that is making your stuff. They used to be a small trusted company but they were bought out by Clorox in 2008 when Clorox saw that people were starting to become concerned about using natural products. Whether it’s Burt’s Bees, Martha’s Mosquitoes (yeah I made that one up) just get informed and know what your putting on…and ultimately IN your body.
Thanks for taking the time to comment!
49.
Jules | May 16, 2013 at 11:21 pm
Good for you that you have friends who can do the work for you! Me, I’m not so blessed, and i don’t have the time to do the research as in depth as i’d like to. A few months ago my sister got me onto Conscious Cosmetics (aussie). I’ve been trusting their products ever since – they don’t make them they just sell products by other companies, that they safety-screen first. And thoroughly safety-screen. I called up and got the owner recently, she had a good chat to me and answered my questions. Apparently she was too just a consumer a few years back, who started researching into these toxic ingredients. She said she wants to educate not just sell products which makes me feel like i can trust her more. She also reckons EWG is ok as a starting base but it’s not accurate enough for her, and she goes directly to testing/scientific orgs for her info.
50.
Tracy | May 14, 2013 at 11:06 pm
if companys can hide all this stuff in everything, what makes you think they stop making it the same way? i say they make new labels to say it dont contain it but im sure they dont change the product
51.
Abroeren | May 14, 2013 at 11:45 pm
I don’t understand why they would do such a thing! Also they use johnson products in the hospitals as well out of all places. That’s just so twisted how they would make these for babies! Yet my 2 and a half month old baby uses it. Now I know not to use it
52.
The Savvy Sister | May 15, 2013 at 11:13 pm
They are not the only company to use chemicals that pose a health risk. the fact is, there are too many chemicals in personal care products these days that they cannot possibly all be tested and there are no labeling laws. There are very sly ways for companies to hide dangers in their products. I am only in favor of full disclosure. just tell us what’s in the damn product so we can make up our own minds as to whether we want to use it.
That’s all I’m sayin
53.
Darrell | May 15, 2013 at 7:41 am
Clare, this is BS!
Formaldehyde is a specific chemical, as are 1,4-dioxane (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1,4-Dioxane) and DMDM hydantoin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DMDM_hydantoin). The former is a by-product of the process used to make the shampoo and is usually found in trace quantities. The latter slowly breaks down within the shampoo in order to release tiny amounts of formaldehyde as it’s used up in it’s primary purpose- antimicrobial preservative. And I assure you, the chemists who came up with the idea didn’t do it so the ingredients list could be used to “fool customers” – it’s so that the formaldehyde can be delivered slowly, as needed to keep the shampoo microbe free.
Formaldehyde itself is a gas at room temperature, so you can imagine that only very small amounts are able to be dissolved in the shampoo in the first place. It has been shown to cause cancer in people who inhale large quantities released in the workplace at WAY higher concentrations and longer exposure times (http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/formaldehyde).
The fact is, using baby shampoo from J&J poses no risk to the infant! It’s actually included to REDUCE the risk of injury by killing bacteria, etc.
54.
The Savvy Sister | May 15, 2013 at 11:19 pm
Thanks for taking your time and posting this response. I guess my question is Darrell, how much formaldehyde would OK for someone to put on their baby’s skin? and why, when there are better, safer antibacterial agents out there to use would you use one that is listed as a carcinogen on the EPA and FDA’s dangerous chemical list?
J&J also said they would be removing parabens and pthalates from their products. We’ve known that parabens and pthalates are endocrine disruptors for decades, but because they are still legal and cheap, companies continue to use them.
There are over 500 chemicals that are legal for use in this country that are banned in others.
55.
chris | May 15, 2013 at 12:01 pm
Unbelievable! Childs’ skin is so sensitive and we have a TRUSTED provider putting embalming fluid in tge pridycts. Just like every other ckmpany, in it for the MONEY!
56.
Kelly | May 15, 2013 at 12:38 pm
What baby wash would you suggest using on babies?
57.
The Savvy Sister | May 15, 2013 at 11:29 pm
I don’t like to post any endorsements because it looks like I am taking $$ from companies and I assure you I DONT!
But if you want to use something safe and gentle I would suggest using plain organic liquid castile soap. you can find this at many places, but I get mine from http://www.MountainRoseHerbs.com. I have used their products to make my own products for years.
You can add some essential oil to the soap as well. For babies lavender is safe. (make sure it’s lavendula angustifolia)
I also LOVE LOVE LOVE Dr Bronners! (www.DrBronners.com) Both of these companies also practive fair trade and fair corporate practices. Good energy all the way around (that will end up with your little one)
58. Has anyone else seen this? Is it true??? | May 15, 2013 at 4:31 pm
[…] anyone else seen this? Is it true??? Johnson & Johnson admits: Our baby products contain cancer-causing formaldehyde | The Savvy Sist… […]
59.
Louise | May 15, 2013 at 6:13 pm
You must trust the company you purchase your products from. Not all information on the internet is valid. The source of these oxybenzone concerns is the non-profit Environmental Working Group (EWG). Chief Scientist Dr. John Bailey with the Personal Care Products Council, a group representing the interests of the cosmetics industry, says the following about the EWG findings: “EWG’s report lacks scientific credibility”; “EWG’s allegations are in direct conflict with the established scientific and FDA safety assessments of sunscreen products and their ingredients, including those from scientific and regulatory bodies in the European Union, Canada, and several other countries”; “EWG invents its own sunscreen product rating system based on very questionable scientific methodology [...] proven to be inaccurate and unreliable by sunscreen experts around the world”.[13]
60.
The Savvy Sister | May 15, 2013 at 11:30 pm
Well…that’s what critics said to Rachel Carson in 1962……and then after realizing she was right, they banned DDT
61.
laura | May 15, 2013 at 7:05 pm
I’m reading this and omg i us baby aveno i don’t see any of the hidden things on back.. And in the thing its says nothing about baby aveno dose anyone know if is in baby aveno??
62.
sylvie | May 15, 2013 at 7:37 pm
Will there be a recall? I just bought 2 big bottles of head-to-toe wash
63.
The Savvy Sister | May 15, 2013 at 11:31 pm
No recall, just toss it
64.
supernatural | May 15, 2013 at 9:04 pm
Why on earth would you ever trust these big corporations again? Wait until they’ve removed the carcinogens? How about voting with your dollar for companies that would never hide carcinogens in their baby shampoo in the first place? Or make your own.
65.
The Savvy Sister | May 15, 2013 at 9:11 pm
Great point! That’s why I started making my own (MOON Organics) and I still LOVE Dr Bronners!!
66.
Ally | May 15, 2013 at 9:10 pm
Formaldehyde is found in many vaccines. Good to know so you can make an informative decision about vaccination
67.
Jason | May 16, 2013 at 6:58 am
The thing is, the amount of formaldehyde found in any single vaccination or series of vaccinations is minuscule – no more than 0.1 milligram per shot.
Your body produces formaldehyde from its own processes, which is broken down very quickly and excreted via urine or respiration.
Even a baby’s small body contains FAR more formaldehyde from those processes than can be obtained via vaccines.
68.
Sandy Steel | May 17, 2013 at 2:46 am
Formaldahyde is not used in babies or childrens vaccine anymore & has not been for quite some time. There is a minute amount in the Flu vaccine to preserve its efficacy. As a Child & Family Nurse I have been advising parents not to use J & J products for years, due to the adverse reactions I repeatedly saw from their use. Baby powder which is so popular with women as well as using it on their babies, has been implicated in cancer of the cervix. These days it is very easy to find natural products for babies & adults & also lots of recipes for making your own products.
69.
branRN | May 20, 2013 at 8:12 pm
As a pediatric RN, you may want to check your facts Sandy, choose one preservative in the vaccine ingredients and go check out your MSDS and see what kind of neurological issues you would get if not handled properly, but yeah sure go inject that stuff in your babies REALLY!!!
70.
Sharon | May 15, 2013 at 9:49 pm
I am curious if your research shows that using the products leads to a certain type of cancer….my 12 yr old recently died and we used J&J all the time, even when he was older because of his sensative skin.
71.
The Savvy Sister | May 15, 2013 at 11:33 pm
Oh, that is terrible. I’m so sorry! Cancer is a very complex disease so there’s no way of knowing what “caused” your child’s cancer. Unfortunately there are a lot of “causes” out there today. Again, so sorry for your loss.
72.
Leigha Fletcher | May 19, 2013 at 4:41 pm
My daughter also has leukemia and is fighting… she is now 4 and was diagnosed at 13 months… I’m so sorry for your loss and I wonder the same thing.. can it be this product?
73.
Charlotte Chernoff | May 15, 2013 at 10:46 pm
I used lots of Johnson &Johnson products on my daughter who is 23 now. I went through breast cancer 21/2 yrs ago. If your products cause cancer and your aware of that. You should be shut down and no longer able to put any products on store shelves. This sickens me to know such a poplar brand could of harmed millions of people.
74.
Katie | May 15, 2013 at 11:43 pm
What baby products (shampoo, baby wash) are safe?
75.
barbara j dunn | May 16, 2013 at 12:52 am
I am so happy I switched to a company that has NO chemicals at all and NO hidden ingredients! shame on you J&J if any mommies wanna know about my company please contact me on fb Barbara j dunn bend ,or
76.
Jo | May 16, 2013 at 1:28 am
If anyone is interested in hearing about ARBONNE, a PURE SAFE range that includes skincare, makeup and BABY RANGE don’t hesitate to contact me at jomarymclaughlin@yahoo.com.au The products are amazing, especially if any of your children suffer from excema. I just want to educate as many people as i can to use safer alternatives on their skin, and those of their loved ones. jo x
77.
Zak | May 16, 2013 at 1:28 am
you better not let your kids out in the sun.. i heard that causes cancer too.. ><
78.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 6:24 am
LOL
79.
Julie | May 16, 2013 at 6:28 am
Is this US only or do the UK formulations also have this?
80.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 6:35 am
The announcement was in the US. Other countries may have law banning these ingredients. Check with your FDA and EPA equivalent
81.
Nadine | May 16, 2013 at 7:04 am
Thank you so much for your information I use a lot of natural products but it is so hard to find products that are safe
82.
Eat-O-Live | May 16, 2013 at 7:19 am
Reblogged this on Eat-O-Live.
83.
Francine OConnell | May 16, 2013 at 7:32 am
Thanks so much for the information as I await my second granddaughter next month… Shocked though, no recall?? My daughter is stocked for a few years!!
84.
Diddley | May 16, 2013 at 10:38 am
Return it!
85.
stacey | May 16, 2013 at 7:39 am
i dont believe any of it my mom used j and j products on me and im fine and so is my baby so i think its all bull
86.
Jason | May 16, 2013 at 7:54 am
This strikes me as fear-mongering.
Your body produces formaldehyde as part of its natural processes – amino-acid synthesis, for one. I’ve seen estimates in medical texts that a healthy adult body produces and metabolizes 50,000 milligrams of formaldehyde daily.
In addition, when we *are* exposed to formaldehyde, it is metabolized *very* quickly. Formaldehyde’s half-life in the blood is about 90 seconds. It is not bio-accumulative, either.
In short, I’d worry a lot more about the estrogen mimics and endocrine disruptors and a lot less about the formaldehyde. In the quantities it could conceivably be present in consumer products, it’s harmless.
87.
Christine Newton | May 16, 2013 at 7:55 am
Everyone should look into using Ava Anderson products that are free of cancer causing agents. Check out their website for everything from baby products to skin care to make up to cleaning agents.
88.
G | May 16, 2013 at 8:05 am
Fragrance is listed under pretty much everything we use (on our babies and ourselves). So is all “fragrance” bad…..or how do we know which to avoid?
Also, I checked all of my J&J product labels and did not see DMDM hydantoin listed on any of them. Fragrance is listed on baby shampoo, my shampoo (different brand), lotion, deo, etc.
89.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 9:42 am
Yes, fragrance is listed as parfum in some cases. Look for essential oils for nice smelling stuff. Synthetic chemicals may smell good, but they are not good for you. You just have to do your homework
Thanks for taking the time to comment!
90.
blogblogettyblog | May 16, 2013 at 8:23 am
I use Johnson & Johnson! I had no idea! I’ve been using the soap on my toddler since she was born.
91.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 9:41 am
See? There’s power in knowledge! Now you can do something about it! Thanks for commenting
92.
ChrisL | May 16, 2013 at 1:21 pm
So have MILLIONS of others. Don’t take this story too seriously.
93.
ginny | May 16, 2013 at 8:43 am
ANOTHER TERRIBLE LIFE CHANGING EVENT IS FLUOROQUINOLONE TOXICITY, BY J&J’s antibiotic Levaquin, brutal damage for life, disability, yes even death, please research it,
94.
doris emmett | May 16, 2013 at 8:48 am
Good Lord…is nothing sacred???
95. Shame on you… | GreenBunz | May 16, 2013 at 8:53 am
[…] http://sisterearthorganics.wordpress.com/2012/08/15/johnson-johnson-admits-our-baby-products-contain… […]
96.
Elaine A. | May 16, 2013 at 8:59 am
I used J&J on all my babies. This makes me sad and scared.
97.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 9:39 am
Don’t worry about what’s already passed I’m sure your kids are fine! But now that you know you have the power to make a change
98.
Wendy Hinton | May 16, 2013 at 9:23 am
unbelievable that such a trusted company would jepordize kids health.
99.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 9:29 am
There’s no recall because what’s even more shocking is that ITS ALL LEGAL! We have regulation, but it says there can be a certain amount of formaldehyde in products and that’s OK. That is why you can’t depend on the government to help protect you. You have to make choices for yourself. Thanks for your comment!
100.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 9:32 am
I’m sure if you asked any individual person in the company, they don’t want to harm kids, but unfortunately when the human being becomes a corporation with shareholders and a profit margin, the values of the individual disappear and the values of the company take over. There are plenty of companies that can make a good profit (I’m not against profit) AND work to maintain good karma. Just sayin’
Thanks for your comment!
101.
Concerned | May 16, 2013 at 9:43 am
HOLD ON. Just because the word “fragrance” is listed, DOES NOT mean there is “cancer hidden in words”. Please. The word fragrance is required by the FDA to describe any addition fragrancing component, synthetic or not. Even 100% natural oils must be listed as “fragrance”. Please be careful with the disinformation and blind activism. There’s no need to vilify hundreds of reputable cosmetic companies. We beg you for responsible journalism.
102.
Brenda Munro | May 16, 2013 at 10:34 am
I’m disgusted with this company as many others, It may be time to just, make my own for the safety of my family. No freaking wonder there is soo much F^%*(() in the world! Shame on J&J!!!
103.
Brenda Munro | May 16, 2013 at 10:36 am
opps meant Cancer.
104.
henry | May 16, 2013 at 10:35 am
I wonder how much their stock will drop?
Once again, the little guy investors take the hit while the fat cats at the top collect huge bonuses without regard for the problems their products create for their customers!
105.
Jasmine | May 16, 2013 at 11:16 am
What the heck else kind of products are we supposed to use? Everything has dangerous stuff…
Pisses me off.
106.
ginny | May 16, 2013 at 1:04 pm
AVA ANderson Non Toxic, consultant #3035 baby, pet, home, body, skin products all organic and totally free of harmful chemicals, please check out all you products out at cosmeticsdatabase.com you will be amazed how products contain harmful toxins, Ava products are 100% safe.
107.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 1:05 pm
No, Monsanto doesn’t own J&J. The Upjohn Company merged with Monsanto and they sold J&J several products for their use. Two are Motrin and Cortaid.
108.
Georgeanne Smisko Zvodar | May 16, 2013 at 11:27 am
Thankful to be partnered with a small US manufacturer who will never be selling to a large manufacturer and who cares about their ingredients. Melaleuca’s model of doing business is unique and so are their safer for your home, family and earth ingredients. I’m happy to give them my business and blessed to share in their revenues by sharing about the company word-of-mouth. Let me know if you’d like to learn more – pidder1014@gmail.com Georgeanne Z
109.
Kirstin | May 16, 2013 at 11:53 am
I sent this link to our local news station.. Hopefully they share it!!! Horrible!
110.
Howie | May 16, 2013 at 11:59 am
So when will we stop injecting it into our kids through vaccines?
111.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 1:15 pm
I don’t know the answer to that one
112.
Sandy Steel | May 17, 2013 at 2:52 am
No formaldahyde in vaccines for children & babies. However repeated exposure day after day, month after month to J & J’s products.
They supply Maternity hospital with their products, they supply florists with their sample products to be sent with flowers. Big business, big money! Not much different to the tobacco companies who still claim their products don’t kill.
113.
Shelly | May 16, 2013 at 12:01 pm
Doesn’t Monsanto own J&J? I know they own and destroy most of what we eat, drink, and use! This is scary since I now have 8 grandkids. Thanks for the info!
114.
Nelda Correa | May 16, 2013 at 12:51 pm
Which brands do you recommend?
115.
Mychaela | May 16, 2013 at 12:54 pm
For those of you who are looking for natural baby products, Arbonne is natural and doesn’t contain cancer causing ingredients. It’s botanically based and is formulated with green science. Arbonne is 100% vegan certified, this means there are no animal products or by-products and no animal testing. Visit http://www.arbonne.ca
116.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 12:55 pm
I don’t endorse any particular brand, but it’s great to have options! Thanks!
117.
ChrisL | May 16, 2013 at 1:04 pm
Arbonne is one of those MLM (aka “pyramid”) businesses that I refuse to support!
I’m sure Johnson & Johnson would also be free of Animal Products, by-products too…
Parents have been using J&J for how many years? I think this story is fear-mongering at best.
118.
Jo | May 16, 2013 at 9:11 pm
just for the record
98. ChrisL | May 16, 2013 at 1:04 pm
i would certainly be checking J&J for no animal fats and no animal by products, as well as no mineral oils. and they definitely have artificial fragrances etc that is one of the number one reasons babies get reactions from these products. they need the artificial fragrances to hide the animal fat and mineral oil smell!
Also ARBONNE is NOT a pyramid selling company at all and i would much rather support this company for its ethics and green commitment to the world than to J&J!!!!!
i know SS you say not too endorse products but this has opened up a can of worms and everyone is saying which products they use. Please check out ARBONNE, http://www.arbonneinternational.com who promote and educate PURE SAFE skincare
jo xo
119.
katiespinney | May 16, 2013 at 1:06 pm
So with all this info.. What IS safe to use on your baby? All we have is Johnson and Johnson and aveeno. Please advise.
120.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 1:09 pm
There are dozens of brands out there depending where you live and what you have access to. Babies don’t need harsh soaps. Whatever you find, you need to do your homework on who is making it? How was the company started? what is their philosophy? What are all the ingredients? etc. etc. Hard work, but the payoff is great!
121.
katiespinney | May 16, 2013 at 1:12 pm
Johnson and Johnson was used on me as well as many of my other friends growing up. It seems like everything now a days is linked to cancer in some way or another. So I don’t know how concerned I will be about this. Obviously I want what is best for my babies but I don’t have to time to be researching EVERY little thing that comes into contact with us.
122.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 1:18 pm
I am not implying that this one product will give you cancer. Thanks for your comment! We all make our own choices Namaste
123.
Virginia Kaplan | May 17, 2013 at 9:11 am
Please check out all the products you use at http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com then check out http://www.avaandersonnontoxic.com cons. #3035 100% organic and totally free of chemicals
124.
ChrisL | May 16, 2013 at 1:15 pm
And be cautious what ‘studies’ you buy into. Check out who FUNDS particular studies & news reports
… I’m more than happy to continue using J&J.
125.
The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 1:20 pm
ChristL: This news report was actually released by Johnson & Johnson. We all make our own choices about products. I am just here to give information so you can do that. Peace.
126.
Jason | May 16, 2013 at 2:16 pm
It would be useful if this information was accompanied by some actual data, not just insensate fearmongering.
127.
The Savvy Sister | May 17, 2013 at 7:55 am
If you read the post, I am just telling everyone what Johnson & Johnson is saying. It’s their press release. Fear is unhealthy and I don’t promote fear, but I do promote healthy living. I don’t know everything (but please don’t tell my husband!)
128.
Lucy | May 17, 2013 at 2:12 am
Being a nurse, do you also warn people on the dangers of immunizations? Because I’d like to add that not only does Johnson & Johnson’s baby products contain cancer causing formaldehyde, so do immunization. While it is not ok to touch or inhale the substance, it is however ok to injected into live human bodies. Just a little food for thought. (:
129.
tabitha | May 16, 2013 at 1:26 pm
So what are some safe options? Are all of the “tear-free” products worth being skeptical about?
130.
Nancy | May 16, 2013 at 1:28 pm
Why do they use formaldehyde anyhow? Thanks for the info. We tend to think if it is good for babies, it must be mild and gentle. So many rude awakenings these days!
131.
Peggy Moczulski | May 16, 2013 at 1:30 pm
So what’s with the commerical where “Fisk Johnson” talk’s about only the finest ingredient’s go into their product’s. Shame on him!
132.
Lots of traffic sometimes means road rage….. | The Savvy Sister | May 16, 2013 at 1:49 pm
[…] gotten some viral “action” (100,000 hits just today May 16th, 2013) on a previous post I did reporting about Johnson & Johnson releasing a statement that said they were removing the […]
133.
Sherry Richter | May 16, 2013 at 1:54 pm
Well you know what, when we know better…..we do better. I had heard a long time ago they use these types of carcinogens and others in their products…….so scary thinking its on these wee ones
This is why I use pure and safe products for my 10 grandkids and family members. Try the ABC by Arbonne. It’s safe for all of us! Go to http://www.arbonne.ca – no parabens, mineral oil……we know want we don’t put in our stuff.
134.
aprilrayne | May 16, 2013 at 1:55 pm
Reblogged this on An Open-Minded Journey.
135.
ashlea | May 17, 2013 at 4:00 am
i feel sick i have just gone and checked my shampoos and found the dangerous chemicals in all of my shampoos im disgusted!!they have all gone in bin. here are a few that contain the chemicals, herbal essences, dove shampoo
136.
Giovanna Faiola | May 16, 2013 at 2:00 pm
Hi there I just read this article and I have been using Johnson products on my son and hes now 5 months do I stop? Which products do you reccomend?
137.
MB | May 16, 2013 at 2:20 pm
Do you have any suggestions of which baby soap to use?
138.
Katy | May 16, 2013 at 2:36 pm
Thank you for sharing! What shampoo would you recommend I use on my five month old baby?
139.
Bridget Shields | May 16, 2013 at 3:08 pm
My heart was sinking into my chest reading this….thinking of ‘loving the baby smell’ all the while I could be harming my daughter. I would do anything to her protect her and feel like a schmuck
. We all have sensitive akin in my household and while I have to use cetaphil, my husband uses both aveno and the oatmeal line of baby wash….. Thank you for sharing the info…..
140.
Ashley B | May 16, 2013 at 3:32 pm
I still don’t think I’ll be using their products. They have know about this for awhile and are just now doing something about it. What else do they know and aren’t telling us? I’d rather support companies who are using real natural products, non-gmo’s and organics.
141.
mitch meade | May 16, 2013 at 3:33 pm
You are aware that formaldahyde is a common product in metabolism. Your body makes endogenous formaldehyde from the foods you eat and drink. While its probably not a bad thing to remove it, I don’t believe that it is responsibe for cancer, unless someone would like to show a CREDIBLE peer reviewed study that hsows as much. Specificall, topically appiled formaldehyde in concentrations similar to the those used in the product.
142.
angie merkle | May 16, 2013 at 3:35 pm
For those of you using Melaleuca products, I hate to be a “Debbie Downer” but I used to use them too after the lady in my neighborhood that sells the stuff hounded me for years. But thankfully, my husband and I not long after, discovered a man named KEVIN TRUDEAU and we dropped Melaleuca PDQ!! (Pretty Darn Quick)
We read ALL Kevin Trudeau’s books cover to cover and did LOTS of our own research. If you cannot pronounce an ingredient in anything you use, eat, drink, put on your skin or in your hair, it is NOT safe for you! Anything organic or all-natural has simple ingredients in it that anyone over the age of, say, 5 can pronounce. Example, my family only eats ice cream that has these ingredients: organic cream, all-natural flavor. Period. Or we make our own. With organic fruit. The sour cream we buy: Organic cream. Period. Most of Melaleuca’s products are FULL of ingredients that my family couldn’t pronounce even if
We typed it into the computer and it pronounced it for us first. Not good. Lord only knows the alternate dangerous chemical for some of those ingredients! Kevin Trudeau has exposed SO MANY government “secrets/lies” that he has been put behind bars more times than he can count. The government has even offered him outrageously ridiculous amounts of money to keep his mouth shut and stop writing his books. He’s not gonna stop….he’s one of the “good guys” and he’s done years and years of research and he tells it like it is. I will always trust his findings. He’s never been wrong so far. Everything we’ve tried from his books has done exactly what he’s said it will do. We make our own laundry soap, dish soap, window cleaner, dishwasher tablets, fabric softener, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, deodorant, disinfectant cleaner, windshield washer fluid, baby wipes, and several dozen more recipes for stuff we use. Read Kevin Trudeau. Yeah I know you’re shaking your head right now..but you will truly be amazed to find out exactly just how much sense he makes. Honest.
143.
Khila | May 16, 2013 at 4:15 pm
So what should we use on our sweet babies?
144.
Juliet | May 16, 2013 at 4:35 pm
So grateful I was introduced to Arbonne products from my friend! Its scary to think that we’ve been using products for years and years and its only now that they’re doing something about it! Part of what I do is teach people how to use safer, more beneficial products by turning their current expense into an income. Not only do we earn an income from our personal care products but they’re safe for the entire family to use! Makes you feel happy and a sense of relief.
145.
Alicia | May 16, 2013 at 4:57 pm
I am in LOVE with Arbonne’s Baby products…free of sulfates, parabens, mineral oils (that’s another one that we need to avoid), fragrances, dyes, etc. I have been using these products on my babies for 6 years!
These are simply the best products out there! If you would like a sample, I am happy to send you one!
146.
Krystal | May 16, 2013 at 5:31 pm
Time magazine has a bit of a different report. They say that the formaldehyde isn’t an added ingredient. It is released over time when certain chemicals mix. The same with the 1,4 dioxane.It is released as a by product of a process used to process certain chemicals. And Johnson & Johnson isn’t the only company that uses those chemicals or processes. I think it is wonderful that Johnson & Johnson is stepping up to the plate & taking action to make their products safer. What are the other companies doing?
http://ideas.time.com/2012/08/22/the-real-lesson-of-formaldehyde-in-baby-shampoo/
147.
Jessica Kellaway AADP, CHC | May 16, 2013 at 6:11 pm
This is why I created a baby safe line with my beauty products. I have very sensative skin- as a holisitc health coach, drugless practitioner, and soon to be naturopathic doctor- I wish people would stop using these harmful things on their children and quit feeding their children harmful foods. I’m not all about making money with my business I am about getting awareness out there and helping people making healthier decisions! Here is a link to my etsy website if anyone is interested – you can also find me on facebook and like my page Healthy by Choice
http://www.etsy.com/shop/healthybychoice
148.
Kristen | May 16, 2013 at 6:18 pm
I would love to help families live a less- toxic, no formaldehyde lifestyle! Please contact me at:
Changing4Better.com/Stack
Thanks,
Kristen
149.
Wendy Wong | May 16, 2013 at 6:21 pm
Hi, I understood parabens is term as bleaching agent. Last June,,I ve developed severe bouts of rashes all over esp after a shower cream bath and whitening moisturizer. Very tormented as I can’t get a proper rest. So many doctors visitations till it took a toll on me. I m beginning to get allergy to fragrance, plastic bags carriers, chairs, PVC bags. And have switch to organic soap, to lessen my itch.. I wonder is there a sunblock moisturizer which isn’t oily esp for humid Singapore..Thank you..
150.
The Savvy Sister | May 17, 2013 at 10:47 pm
Parabens are proven cancer promoters. They are preservatives in many products. Anything ending in “paraben” belongs to that group
151.
Cindy | May 16, 2013 at 6:52 pm
We used J and J on my son. He developed cancer. He battled for 3.5 years. If there’s ever a link between an ingredient and cancer, it should be FORBIDDEN. Information like this infuriates me. I will not say that his cancer was caused from products we chose to use on him. We will never know the trigger. Just wish we’d had the opportunity to make a more informed decision with appropriate, not misleading and negligent product labelling.
152.
DeeRae | May 16, 2013 at 7:45 pm
Interesting article-I will be the first to point out that I haven’t researched this particular issue. However, I would just like to say that simply because a product contains a certain ingredient does not mean it is harmful. For example, no one would take a fish oil supplement if this were the case (d/t the Mercury), but as it stands the amount ingested is so minute that it is irrelevant. What Ms. Nettesheim is refering to “as a scientist” is that there probably are not any systematic reviews or randomized controlled trials documenting adverse effects as a result of this ingredient (editorials & expert opinion are the lowest levels of scientific evidence).
153.
mrain Cook | May 16, 2013 at 8:01 pm
triclosan blocks the metabolism of thyroid hormone. It’s in tooth paste, mouth wash & antibacteria soap. Wheat has been so hybridized over the decades that it provokes diabests & is addictive. It’s baby’s 1st food – Pablum. We are the rats in the biggest consumer experiment in history. Make a fortune first ask;health questions second. Thank you for your good work
154.
Vicki | May 16, 2013 at 8:07 pm
I just bought 2 baby bath kits, regular and nighttime. We are expecting our first child in a few weeks. I certainly will not be using these products. Do you know if J&J will reimburse for purchased unopened products?
155.
Audrey | May 16, 2013 at 8:21 pm
Are they recalling their products? I have a lot of lotions and bath washes that we’re baby shower gifts that I don’t want to throw away, yet I don’t want to use them on my children. Thanks
156.
amanda brandon | May 16, 2013 at 8:23 pm
Thanks for letting us know me and my husband us this for all 5 of are children
157.
brian | May 16, 2013 at 8:26 pm
How can j&j get away with this? Someone needs jail time or worse. Who knows how many people have gotten cancer from their products.
158.
Jen | May 16, 2013 at 8:28 pm
Interesting as I have 2 young children!!! But what is recommended instead I am new to all this organic stuff!!
159.
sachita gurung | May 16, 2013 at 8:52 pm
Great info. Thanks.
160.
Dalia | May 16, 2013 at 8:58 pm
Do you know if this includes the J&J naturals?
161.
Nicky | May 16, 2013 at 9:03 pm
I can’t believe they were doing this. It makes me wonder what other products they are putting formaldehyde in. I am allergic to formaldehyde so this scares me even more.
162.
Eleanor | May 16, 2013 at 9:10 pm
I lost my 5 year old daughter to leukemia two years ago June 19th. All we ever used to bath her was J&J Head to Toe Baby Wash. There is scientific proof of the link of formaldehyde to cause leukemia. This news makes me just want to scream and bang my fists.
163.
julie guthrie | May 16, 2013 at 9:13 pm
the no poo is looking better and better….no shampoo but baking soda mixed with water…i hope thats safe…:(
164.
Maria | May 16, 2013 at 9:34 pm
It’s so hard. If it’s not GMO’s it’s this. How do we continue as parents To live the organic way when we have politicians and government backing these companies. Thank you for sharing.
165.
Krista | May 16, 2013 at 9:39 pm
My daughter was 21 months old at diagnosis of a rare form of cancer called Embryonal Rhabdomyosarcoma…all we ever used was Johnson and Johnson. She underwent a year of treatment and is 6 now and doing great. But cancer has a mind of its own and we know it can return at anytime. Is there any kind of information on what types of cancer it could be linked to? I am literally going upstairs and throwing it all out…so so sad
166.
Jill Bojarski | May 16, 2013 at 10:03 pm
As a 1st time parent with my son Jackson we used nothing but brand name products for him whether it was diapers, formulas, and care products like J & J’s line. When he was born, almost 6 yrs ago the newest, greatest thing on the market was their “Bedtime Lavender collection.” Now I can’t even bathe him in the bathtub regularly because he is accessed through his mediport for his weekly cancer treatments and nightly ivs!!! I am beyond enraged right now!!!
167.
Wingnut | May 16, 2013 at 10:23 pm
I checked my son’s bath products. We recently upgraded him to “big boy” shampoo, Suave Kids 2-in-1 shampoo: Wild Watermelon.
This shampoo DOES list DMDM Hydantion as an ingredient.
We also had some J&J baby body wash we are getting rid of. Thanks for the article!
168.
SuperMartUncle | May 16, 2013 at 10:43 pm
Reblogged this on fluxfour.
169.
Melanie | May 16, 2013 at 10:59 pm
Can you recommend another good brand that is available here in aus please?
170.
Alicia | May 17, 2013 at 11:34 pm
Arbonne is available in AU!
171.
Kitte Lishuss | May 16, 2013 at 11:36 pm
I have found this site to be invaluable: http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/
You can search any product.
172.
UK mummy | May 17, 2013 at 12:35 am
I’ve been doing some reading on this, concerned as my daughter is a year now and we have always used the No More Tears shampoo. Luckily for those in the UK, our regulations don’t allow such nasty ingredients to be used so the brand is safe. It’s about time the USA government & companies caught up and put health before wealth.
173.
Jodi Rasmusen | May 17, 2013 at 12:40 am
OMG I had no idea, Thank you so much for informing us, We have a 6mth old baby and use these products as I thought they were safe for out little one
174.
Kelly Clark | May 17, 2013 at 4:20 am
thank god a dont use ur products, terrible, why arae u stil selling them!!!!!!!!
175.
Ivona | May 17, 2013 at 4:22 am
This is ste second article about J&J .. First was about losing their license .. I started using Arbonne pure-safe-beneficial … Have you heard of them? Xx
176.
Janet | May 17, 2013 at 6:21 am
As if companies can do these kinds of things to consumers…. Just upsets me more that I have this product and have used it for 2 years on my toddler… This is wrong on so many levels… We protect our children to find out what I have been using to wash him with has this crap in it….. I’m appalled at this point and don’t for the life of me understand how this is legal??? As if…. Well to find a new shampoo and body wash for Tank is now my number one task for today and I don’t think I can resume j &j even if they “take it out” what’s to say they don’t just cover up another lie…..
Thank you so much for this information…. Hope you have a great day!!!
177.
Penny Muir | May 17, 2013 at 6:57 am
What is most appalling is that the formulations for European babies has always been free of ALL those ingredients. The ingredients are banned in the EU and have been for a long time. Why not just bring the European formulation to North America?!
178.
Suzze | May 17, 2013 at 7:38 am
Ever since my son died of leukemia I always wondered in the back of my mind if it was because of something I did – like using a product that contained a cancer-causing chemical – that triggered it because leukemia is caused by these types of things.
179.
The Savvy Sister | May 17, 2013 at 7:57 am
Suzze I am so sorry for your loss. Please don’t think that way. That’s not the way chemicals work. If one thing caused 100% of people to contract cnacer, then we’d all have it. Please e-mail me privately if you’d like to talk. Hugs
180.
Jen | May 17, 2013 at 12:42 pm
It’s nice to have someone comment who has been through some of what we have. Thank you
181.
Jen | May 17, 2013 at 12:38 pm
It’s not funny but funny you write that cause I ask myself the same thing almost everyday. Was it something I did or didn’t do. My oldest got a Wilm’s Tumor and did Radition and 6 months of Chemo. He his my hero and in now 4 years remission and I thank someone everyday he did live. My thoughts are with you and if every need to bitch or just talk just do so. Everyone says they know how you feel but it’s totally different until you go though something like this yourself. rob.tal@hotmail.com.
182.
Tash | May 17, 2013 at 8:20 am
My oldest always cried when he got the “no more tears” in his eyes. Said it stung like the dickens. Now I know why. Ugh. I don’t use that stuff on my youngest… I’ll have to check to make sure what I do use is safe.
183.
Grace | May 17, 2013 at 8:21 am
“Don’t cry! They finally are concerned about your safety!” I hardly think this is true. I don’t think for a second that J&J would have taken it out unless there was a possible financial loss at hand. I don’t trust them, because if they were a reliable company and cared about its customers and babies in the first place they wouldn’t have harmful ingredients in it in the first place!
184.
Zarah | May 17, 2013 at 8:59 am
Arbonne and Melaleuca are not as safe as you think, it’s all in the ingredients I’m afraid! I’ve looked them up on the EWG’s site and was very disappointed in the ratings they received. I found Ava Anderson non toxic which rated much much safer.
185.
Alicia | May 17, 2013 at 11:35 pm
If you have any questions on ANY Arbonne product your consultant can pull up a complete ingredient list and it will list the function and source of each ingredient. No hidden surprises.
186.
ginny | May 18, 2013 at 9:24 am
Yes Zarah I found AvaAnderson after I was toxic from an antiboitic, and can no longer use chemically laden products on my body, house, pet. I became a consultant #3035, 2 yrs ago, I feel their products have greatly improved my life, I am able to detox and stay toxic free, and that is huge in my life.
187.
Shari | May 17, 2013 at 9:21 am
Thank you this was a very informative article for myself. I used only j and j with my first son. I have my second son on the way and I definitely will not be using their products again!
188.
Julia Gardner | May 17, 2013 at 9:39 am
I’m glad that parents are wising up to chemicals they put on their kids skin, but how about the presence of formaldehyde in vaccinations?? I’m more worried about that to be honest!
189.
alienredqueen | May 17, 2013 at 9:52 am
As a commenter above said quite nicely:
“DMDM hydantoin (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/DMDM_hydantoin). … is a by-product of the process used to make the shampoo and is usually found in trace quantities. …the chemists who came up with the idea didn’t do it so the ingredients list could be used to “fool customers” – it’s so that the formaldehyde can be delivered slowly, as needed to keep the shampoo microbe free.
(http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/Risk/formaldehyde).
The fact is, using baby shampoo from J&J poses no risk to the infant! It’s actually included to REDUCE the risk of injury by killing bacteria, etc.”
I don’t agree with hiding ingredients in a list, (People have the right to know exactly what they are getting) but I imagine they do it for this very reason! People see a word like “formaldihyde” and freak out, knowing virtually nothing about it’s uses and applications except for a very narrow definition. Like the vaccines and its antimicrobial use in the shampoos, chemicals like this have a lot of different uses (which have been used to our advantage without our knowledge for years. )
There is some truth to the statement that a little knowledge is a dangerous thing.
190.
Janet | May 17, 2013 at 10:16 am
So in regards to this attical I called J&J and they stated that this information is true however back in 2006 was when they started to change this from their products and that this attical is old! Also the lavender body wash and shampoo have a trace amounts in, one would have to bath their baby 660 times a day for 35+ years for it to have an affect. Now I don’t know about you but my toddler is only washed once a day and as he gets older the products will be changed as he gets older. But with confidence I will continue to use this product (the lavender ones only) reading the label with them on the phone in the lavender shampoo Quaternium-15 is the world used for formaldehyde and it is 0000.0001% of not true formaldehyde. In other words its not real formaldehyde its a man made product that is similar to formaldehyde and again one would have to bath their baby 660 times in one day for 35+ years for it to cause cancer. So my thoughts baby carrots have more formaldehyde in it then this baby body wash and shampoo…. I will use this product before feeding my toddler baby carrots again!!!! Keep in mind folks that formaldehyde is found in over 1000 of products that we all consume daily!!!
Hope you all have a better out look on this article!!! I still appreciate the information that was given today…. It’s just too bad that this artical was done in 2006 and no where does it show that its 6 years old and that J&J have already made the changes that they needed to. This products are safe for babies
191.
The Savvy Sister | May 17, 2013 at 10:29 pm
Thanks for taking the time to comment Janet!
I’m not sure who you spoke to in the J&J offices, but the announcement by J&J was made via a press relesae on August 13, 2012 (my post is dated August 2012. They stated that they would not finish all the changes to their products until sometime in 2015.
In my opinion, a comparison can never be made between a man-made chemical that is produced in a lab and a natural vegetable like a carrot. Again, these are my opinions. I don’t use any personal care product (nor does my family use them) if it isn’t something I would put in my mouth. now I don’t go around making a habit of eating my soap or my deodorant, but I could and it would be perfectly harmless. Again, my opinion, but if you can use a 100% natural product without any cancer-causing agents, why not use that instead?
192.
Erin | May 17, 2013 at 10:16 am
Thanks for the information! Do you know of a brand that is natural that I could use on my child instead?
193.
maxine | May 17, 2013 at 10:51 am
I was educated on this last year and shocked with horror since then ive followed every clip i could find on j&j there last statment was that they would “endeavour” to have all chemicals removed by 2015, totally unacceptable to me, as mother’s who have just brought there creation of life into this world are using j&j products and don’t event know what they contain, i think its shocking that the laws & legislations allowed this, but hey its all money and politics.
194.
The Savvy Sister | May 17, 2013 at 10:30 pm
Thanks Maxine. It really just shows that we as consumers need to be more aware of what we are putting on (which gets IN) our bodies.
195.
JK | May 17, 2013 at 12:18 pm
I just got a bunch of J & J products at my baby shower… Thanks for hiding ingredients. That was really ethical. Now I can’t use any of those gifts.
196.
Megan | May 17, 2013 at 12:19 pm
I would like your references or source were you are getting your information please so I csn follow-up.
197.
The Savvy Sister | May 17, 2013 at 10:47 pm
The sources are listed in the post Thanks!
198.
Jen | May 17, 2013 at 12:31 pm
Wow that makes me so MAD and feel like crying at the same time. We used this shampoo and body wash with all my beautiful children. My oldest is my hero because he has survived cancer and my husband and I went through the hardest thing we have ever been through. Makes you sit there and wonder if all could have been helped if only we used something else to wash our child with. In nova scotia where we live the Radition and Chemo he received where free but all the many prescriptions he had to have to help him being sick from getting painful mouth sores to make sure he didn’t die from so easy as the common cold or get phenomia where not. We sent every second day at the hospital almost for 3 months getting Radition, Chemo and Blood tests not including living at the hospital for 8 days straight after his surgery. Just think of the cost of parking at $15 a day. But you know what for my husband and I it wasn’t the money it was being there for your son who needed us we didn’t ask anyone for help didn’t do what others do fundraising ( yes we could had used help). We just did what needed to be done be there anyway we could for our son.
199.
Katie | May 17, 2013 at 12:50 pm
What brand(s) of baby care would you recommend? Having baby #2 this summer, and feeling perry bad about the J&J shampoo I’ve been using for my 2 yo son!
200.
Tamara | May 17, 2013 at 1:01 pm
My son has been using Johnson’s & Johnson’s Baby Products for his whole life – he just turned 7. Is my son going to get cancer because people are so reckless and deceiving by putting harmful & fatal chemicals in baby/kid products?
201.
vicky | May 17, 2013 at 1:37 pm
my daughter had cancer when she was 7 i often wonder what did i do wrong!!! i dont think i did anything wrong but i think J&J did…she will be 3 years in remission this june am so lucky to still have her
202.
Bobo | May 17, 2013 at 1:42 pm
THANKS FOR THE INFO
203.
Blanche | May 17, 2013 at 1:59 pm
Why are these cancer causing ingredients in products like this in the first place? Is it just because they can? Or was there a need for making the product work?
204.
becky | May 17, 2013 at 5:11 pm
The Body Shop already sell an adult range of pthalate and paraben free shampoos and conditioners – on fact a whole hair Cate range. It is also neutral and dorms harm the environment.
I use it and although it doesn’t froth quite as much as your ‘normal’ shampoos is wonderful and just as effective as any other range. I very much recommend it.
205.
becky | May 17, 2013 at 5:12 pm
Sorry, it * does not harm the environment. Typo’s, eek!
206.
becky | May 17, 2013 at 5:13 pm
and *hair CARE range. Tsk.
207.
Mishi | May 17, 2013 at 7:11 pm
Great article! Could you elaborate on this: ” Your skin is a carrier…NOT a barrier!”
Thanks (:
208.
vera ruddy | May 17, 2013 at 7:36 pm
i was shocked…i use it to clean my eyelashes,i wnt use it anymore. shame on them,trying to trick us into thinking al was gentle, thanks for telling us…no wonder my eyelashes didnt get better..as advised by a doctor.
209.
Laura Robinson | May 17, 2013 at 8:09 pm
Do you mind suggesting a healthy, organic brand of baby products (shampoo, body wash, lotion and sunscreen)?
210.
Krissy | May 17, 2013 at 8:53 pm
Coming from the momma of a child with a brain tumor, this seriously pisses me off! What is wrong with these companies! It’s so frustrating that they have to be exposed to do the right thing. ugh!
211.
ginny | May 17, 2013 at 10:53 pm
Checkout all your products out at http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com tells you all about the chemicals and harm they do
212.
Joseph Braun Photography - Child Photography | May 17, 2013 at 8:57 pm
Wow!! What will they think of next?? Thanks for sharing this .. I will share on Facebook. Namaste!!
213.
war_against_the_people | May 17, 2013 at 10:46 pm
The giant conglomerates are soul-less beasts concerned only about money. They are headed by highly performing psychopaths. Take a few minutes to go learn about psychopaths in society – try wikipedia for a start, then you will begin to understand how these companies can do things like add toxins and poisons to their ingredients lists. Psychopaths are obsessed by power and greed. They have no empathy, compassion, caring, love, morals, guilt or remorse. They compulsively lie because the to tell the truth, one requires morals and a level of guilt. Sounds like the corporations they run?
They will likely remove the offending toxin and replace it with another in order to reinstate their image as a “caring”, “family” company (psychopaths can appear to be kind and considerate if it gets them what they want). Consider the carciogen sodium lauryl sulfate, when too many people discovered how bad it was and made it so unpopular, they created sodium laureth sulfate. They use all these toxic products because they are cheap. Your safety is not their concern. It doesn’t even hit their radar. Only your money is of interest to them and they will do anything to get it. Anything. Use your wallet to stop them. It is the only way they will get the message.
214.
ginny | May 17, 2013 at 10:59 pm
J AND J Fluoroquinolone antibiotics are damaging people everyday for the last 30 years, its called Fluoroquinolone Toxicity, reseach it do not ever let it happen to you or yours, disabling damage, no cure or treatment, millions have been victims, J and Jknows about it and does nothing about it,,,
215.
K | May 18, 2013 at 12:19 am
I remember the no more tears shampoo it was an orangey colur and it stung my eyes like no shampoo I have ever used since!
216.
K | May 18, 2013 at 12:20 am
I remember the no more tears shampoo it was an orangy colour and it stung my eyes like no shampoo I have ever used since!
217.
Kimberley Westmoreland | May 18, 2013 at 1:05 am
I knew j & j wasn’t very good with products but this just tops it!!! Do you have any suggestions as to what would be very safe to use on babies?? I normally use just water and a olive oil soap ( only if needed) but I am due my 4th bundle of joy soon and those first poos require something to get rid if the tar like texture!!
would be great to see some suggestions on some yummy but very natural products even home made I love xxx
218.
The Savvy Sister | May 20, 2013 at 5:53 pm
There are many many good companies out there. I can only comment on what I personally use and I can say that Badger (http://www.badgerbalm.com) makes wonderful prodcuts as well as Mountain Rose Herbs and Dr Bronners. Making your own is very easy and there are many great books for doing that as well. good luck and congrats!
219.
ginny | May 20, 2013 at 6:42 pm
Check out all the victims of fluoroquinolone toxicity, on facebook, 100,000′s by Levaquin an antibiotic by J&J , they are taking no resposibitiy for the damage, just go to The Wall of Pain on facebook. so very sad…
220.
Worried mummy | May 18, 2013 at 4:15 am
Thanks for jsharing this. I’m currently using baby shampoo no tears on my baby. Will change products immediatley.
I don’t know if you agree but if J & J are a serious company shouldn’t they recall all their products distributed?
221.
C Boutilier | May 18, 2013 at 7:07 am
… not just J&J …please look closely at all your household products. The ingredient listing…check them out ..trouble is
in everything! Yes, it is scarey…but be informed its better than learning of a cancer diagnosis and wonder, gee how did I get cancer?…from our food to our household products. and follow the dollar…see who’s behind it. We are all worth it!
222.
The Savvy Sister | May 20, 2013 at 5:51 pm
Some ingredients are cancer causing (like cigarettes and asbestos) and some chemicals are cancer “proliferating”. That is, they increase the activity of cancer cells that are in your body. Paraben preservatives are a good example. Both kinds of chemicals should be avoided when possible
223.
Fran Gwyther | May 18, 2013 at 9:13 am
This drives me crazy! On a different note my 86 year old mother was taking chewable gummy vitamins and I was so upset when I saw that there was red dye, blue dye and yellow dye in them! I also went looking for some liquid soap to use instead of bar soap in the shower most of the soaps have dyes in them! The FDA is not doing there job……money talks and people are suffering because of it! I love your blog!
224.
Louisa Huber | May 18, 2013 at 10:39 am
just though you might want to know that even head and shoulders contains formaldehyde under the name of DMDM hydantoin
225.
The Savvy Sister | May 20, 2013 at 5:47 pm
There are hundreds of products that contain chemicals that could cause everything from rashes to allergies. You must read the labels.
226.
Matt | May 18, 2013 at 11:47 am
When they say no more tears, they mean no more tears in your hair.
227.
calmandclear | May 18, 2013 at 12:57 pm
There was such uproar after this was released back in August 2012 that J&J had to do a total turnaround after pressure from Breast Cancer Fund and Campaign for Safe Cosmetics. This statement was released back in August 2012 about reformulating all their products by 2015 to remove all harsh chemicals. http://www.insideprevention.org/2012/08/jj-removing-harsh-chemicals-from-products-by-2015-associated-press-8152012.html
228.
Arbonne fan | May 18, 2013 at 5:26 pm
This is so annoying how companies can get away with such. I am a midwife and it disgusts me what advice women are given on what to put on their babies skin. I am very aware of products containing nasties and so much so I have came across a fantastic product that I now promote. It’s called arbonne. It’s got the Swiss flag approval and has been green from very start over 30 years ago. These products not only are safe pure and beneficial, they have fantastic results. Please check out http://www.kendall.myarbonne.co.uk for more information. This company does not pay for advertising and rely on word of mouth recommendation.
229.
Kerrie | May 18, 2013 at 5:28 pm
Thank-you all for sharing I would like to add that my husband Peter Walker who teaches developmental baby massage teacher training has been for the last decade warning his students in the UK and Japan against the dangers of using the Johnson and Johnson’s baby oil” . This is a mineral oil not a natural product containing petroleum why would we need and want to put this on our babies and children’s skin ? anything put on our skin is absorbed by our blood within minutes and now we learn of formaldehyde which is linked to cancer is in Johnson and Johnson baby wash ! We have to protect our children say NO !!!
230.
The Savvy Sister | May 18, 2013 at 6:32 pm
I have been trying to spread the understanding about what “baby oil” really is (a by-product of petroleum just like motor oil) and that it does nothing to help the skin become healthy. you body actually tries to reject it (that’s why it is a laxative!) It’s great that you are getting the word out. if more people understand, they will make a change! Thanks for the comment!
231.
SafeMum | May 19, 2013 at 6:45 am
I worked for J&J for many years and when I had my first child 7 years ago had access to heavily discounted J&J baby products. I instead chose to buy brands that were organic and most importantly paraben, SLS free and those that only contained naturally derived plant extracts. We still only use natural products and I’m so glad I made that choice for my babies and myself!
232.
Leigha Fletcher | May 19, 2013 at 4:36 pm
What if my child did indeed get diagnosed with cancer at 13 months old? I never knew about this ….. this is crazy!!!! And downright outrageous!!!
233.
Naomi | May 20, 2013 at 11:18 am
Johnson & Johnson Inc. Reference – 015518175A
Dear Naomi,
Thank you for your contact regarding JOHNSON’S® products.
Johnson & Johnson Inc. and all Johnson & Johnson consumer companies worldwide have been providing consumers with trusted, safe and effective personal care products for themselves and their children for more than 100 years. We believe that our products are among those that consumers choose most often because of our extremely stringent and rigorously applied safety policy.
Some of the ingredients in our products may contain 1,4-dioxane as an incidental ingredient at extremely low levels. Trace levels of 1,4 dioxane can result from processes that make our products gentle to the skin and eyes. We do not add 1,4 dioxane directly to our products and we are leaders in taking measures to ensure that any amounts of 1,4 dioxane are at extremely low levels by using the best commercially available technologies for reducing trace amounts.
Formaldehyde is not directly added to our products. To prevent the growth of bacteria in personal care products, which could cause skin irritation and infection, we use a preservative known as quaternium-15 in some of our products. Quaternium-15 is a formaldehyde-releasing preservative, which ensures that the actual level of free formaldehyde in the product remains very low, but is sufficient to prevent or eliminate bacterial growth, especially during usage. Formaldehyde poses no hazard at these trace levels. In fact, formaldehyde is a product of metabolism of all living organisms and occurs naturally in plants, animals, humans, air, water and food.
All ingredients considered for inclusion in our products are reviewed by experts (MD’s, toxicologists or biologists) prior to selection. In addition to these evaluations, all our final formulations are assessed for both safety and efficacy. Throughout the life of our products, we continually monitor consumer experiences and regularly review evolving scientific data to ensure that our product portfolio is the best available for doctors, nurses, and families in Canada and around the world.
Experts such as doctors, toxicologists and clinical scientists regularly review the safety data for all ingredients used in our products. In addition, we evaluate all our final formulations with consumers for safety. Once our products are in the marketplace, we continually monitor consumer experiences and review evolving scientific data.
Should you require further information, I invite you to e-mail us again or call our Consumer Care Center at 1-866-565-2229. We are open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET and we will be happy to assist you.
Regards,
Ashley K.
Consumer Care Centre
015518175A
234.
The Savvy Sister | May 20, 2013 at 5:44 pm
If they’re so safe then why the f&%k are they taking them out?????!!!!! (sorry for yelling)
I have so many issues with this letter that I think i will do another post to go over all of them Thanks!!
235.
ginny | May 20, 2013 at 7:13 pm
Please everyone checkout ALL your products at http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com there you will see detailed break down of over 70,000 products, the chemicals contain, organs that may be damaged and ratings of safety of 0-10, 0 the safest 10 deadly, then checkout http://www.avaandersonnontoxic.com consultant # 3035, baby products etc, ALL rated 0, meaning totally SAFE..free of ALL chemicals and 100% organic
236.
Quinn | May 20, 2013 at 9:45 pm
So is it only in the shampoos and washes, not their lotions? What should I use on her if Aveeno is distributed by J&J also, (which I just noticed on the back of the bottle)? I have a newborn & countless bottles of their washes. I seriously want to cry right now.
237.
The Savvy Sister | May 20, 2013 at 9:48 pm
Don’t just go by brands. You have to get familiar with questionable ingredients and look for those in the ingredient list. There are many brands that don’t use any chemical preservatives or artificial fragrance, or colors etc. This isn’t only for babies it’s for you too!
238.
J. Thurman | May 21, 2013 at 8:59 am
Thank you so much for the info! I threw out all off my stock of J&J products for my 3 kids yesterday before reading the full article. Now having read it, the aveno is out too! How can they sleep at night? Thanks again!