Concerns about cancer are rising worldwide and with that fear many everyday products are often labelled as “carcinogenic” on social media. Skincare items such as moisturisers shampoos perfumes and fairness creams frequently become part of these discussions. However according to experienced oncologist Dr Jayesh Sharma not every claim circulating online is accurate and many of them exaggerate the actual risk.
In a recent explanation shared online the Raipur based cancer specialist who has more than 25 years of medical experience clarified that the presence of a chemical alone does not automatically make a product dangerous. What truly matters is the concentration of that substance and the level at which it could potentially harm the human body.
To simplify the discussion he grouped common skincare products into two categories based on how long they remain on the skin.
Products that are rinsed off
Items like shampoos soaps body washes and similar products are applied for a very short time and then washed away with water. Because they stay in contact with the skin only briefly they generally do not pose a cancer risk.
Dr Sharma noted that claims suggesting these rinse-off products directly cause cancer are largely misleading. Since the exposure time is extremely limited the possibility of harmful absorption into the body is very low.
Leave-on skincare products
Certain skincare products stay on the skin for longer periods and are therefore discussed more often in health debates.
Moisturisers
Many moisturisers contain preservatives known as parabens. Some studies have suggested that parabens might theoretically interfere with hormones. However according to Dr Sharma there is still no solid scientific evidence showing that the amount of parabens used in cosmetic products can harm humans.
He added that individuals with a strong family history of conditions like Breast Cancer may choose paraben-free products if they feel more comfortable. For the vast majority of people however the risk remains extremely low.
Perfumes and deodorants
Perfumes and deodorants may contain chemicals called phthalates. These compounds have been studied for their potential role in hormonal disruption. Despite this possibility current research has not established a clear link between these products and cancer in humans.
People dealing with hormonal disorders such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome sometimes prefer to reduce exposure to such ingredients. In warm climates deodorants are often considered practical while perfumes can be applied to clothing instead of directly onto the skin to minimise contact.
Fairness creams
Among everyday skincare products fairness creams are considered more concerning by many doctors. Some of these products have been reported to contain harmful substances such as mercury or steroids. Mercury can negatively affect overall health while prolonged steroid use can damage the skin.
Because of these risks specialists often advise avoiding fairness creams altogether. Dermatologists and oncologists increasingly encourage people to embrace their natural skin tone instead of relying on potentially unsafe products.
Overall experts emphasise that while certain ingredients may have theoretical risks the majority of commonly used skincare products are safe when used as intended. Consumers should rely on scientific evidence rather than viral claims when evaluating health risks related to cosmetics.
