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Study: Common Cosmetics Contain Harmful Chemicals

(CBS) -- Are your beauty products bad for your health?

Consumer Reports ShopSmart magazine announced the results of its year-long investigation, finding that many beauty products may contain harmful chemicals.

As CBS2's Marissa Mayer reports, even products found at a local drugstore could lead to an increased risk of cancer or impact a person's reproductive health.

One ingredient to avoid is Quaternium 15, which ShopSmart claims is a potential carcinogen. It can be found in Maybelline Great Lash Waterproof Mascara and Aveeno Daily Moisturizing Body Wash.

DMDM Hydantoin is found in two different Pond's products and according to the study, is also a possible carcinogen.

Triclosan, an ingredient in Colgate Total toothpaste and Cetaphil Gentle Cleansing Antibacterial Bar, is another chemical to avoid. It may impact reproductive and developmental health.

Johnson and Johnson was the only company to respond to CBS 2's request for answers. They say: a new formula is currently being rolled out and the Aveeno Body Wash containing Quaternium-15 should be off shelves soon.

Best advice? Make a list of the chemicals and check them out each time you buy.

To find out more on the beauty products that may affect your health, check out Marissa Bailey's full report in the video above.

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