Let’s talk about that label you might have seen on products that says something like:
"WARNING: This product contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm."
Yikes, right?
But before you toss everything with a Prop 65 warning into the trash, let’s break it down. What is Prop 65, why is it everywhere, and what does it actually mean for your health?
Prop 65: The Basics
Proposition 65, officially known as The Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, is a California law designed to protect people from exposure to chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
Sounds great in theory and it is rooted in good intentions. The law requires businesses to provide a clear warning if their product could expose people to one of the 900+ chemicals listed under California’s Prop 65 list. That list is updated regularly by the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA).
Why Is That Label on My Shampoo/Hairbrush/Restaurant Building?
Here’s where things get interesting (and slightly eye-roll-worthy). The warning label doesn’t mean the product will harm you. It just means it may contain even a teeny-tiny trace of a listed chemical, often far below levels considered dangerous by federal standards.
That’s because Prop 65 is hyper-cautious. Think of it as the helicopter parent of safety regulations.
Also? It’s not always about the actual product. Sometimes the label is required because of packaging materials, manufacturing equipment, or even warehouse dust. (Yes, warehouse dust.)
Why Does It Matter?
If you’re someone who cares about what goes on and, in your body, Prop 65 can be a helpful starting point to dig deeper. But it’s also easy to get overwhelmed or misled.
Here are a few truths worth remembering:
- Just because something has a Prop 65 label doesn’t mean it’s unsafe.
- Just because something doesn’t have the label doesn’t mean it’s squeaky clean.
- Some companies add the label just to cover their bases, even if the risk is basically nonexistent.
What Should You Take Away From All This?
Let’s be real, when nearly everything in California comes with a Prop 65 warning (from your mascara to your morning coffee to the gas station air pump), the label starts to lose a bit of its punch. It’s so common, it’s almost become white noise for anyone living in or shipping to the Golden State.
But here's the thing: just because the label’s everywhere doesn’t mean it’s meaningless, and just because something doesn’t have it doesn’t automatically mean it’s safe.
That’s why real power lies with you. So don’t panic but get curious. Use Prop 65 labels as a jumping-off point, not a final verdict. Flip the label over, check the ingredients, and ask questions.
We’re all ears. Send us a message, or drop a comment on Instagram. We’re here to help you feel good (and smell great) while navigating the wild world of wellness.
These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. For any medical concern you should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other health care worker. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. Full Medical Disclaimer.
