If you’re into hair care, you’ve probably heard of Olaplex, the brand that markets formulas to repair damaged hair. The Olaplex product line has taken hair care lovers everywhere by storm but stirred up some controversy in 2022 regarding one of its ingredients. This ingredient, called lilial, was formally banned by the European Union (EU) for its risk of being a reproductive toxin. Olaplex was placed under public scrutiny for using lilial in one of its popular products, and many people were left wondering if their Olaplex products were causing them to become infertile. You can learn whether Olaplex may cause infertility by reading the information below.

What is lilial?

Lilial, also known as butylphenyl methylpropanal, is a chemical compound that is most commonly used in cosmetic and laundry products. It’s used in these types of products as a fragrance. 

A study conducted in 2019 found reproductive issues in animal test subjects that were exposed to lilial, which eventually led the European Union to make its decision to ban the ingredients from use. There haven’t been any studies yet conducted on the effects of lilial on humans, but the effects on the animal test subjects were strong enough indicators for the EU to make its decision. 

Can Olaplex cause infertility?

In short, the answer is no. Olaplex is not linked to any signs of infertility. The one ingredient in this hair product that may have been linked to reproductive problems is no longer in production.

The ingredient was found in Olapex’s No. 3 Hair Perfector, but once lilial was banned by the EU, Olaplex stopped producing products with it in them. The hair company released a statement maintaining that the amount of lilial that it did use in its products was too small to cause reproductive harm and wasn’t a main fragrance ingredient. Since then, Olaplex has stopped using lilial altogether, despite the ingredient’s use being permitted in the U.S. 

If you’re worried about infertility as a result of using Olaplex, you needn’t be. Olaplex no longer uses the ingredient linked to reproductive toxins, and the amount it did use in the past wasn’t enough to cause harm. So, if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding or plan on becoming pregnant and you love your Olaplex products, feel free to keep using them as much as you please.

What beauty products can actually impact my fertility?

While Olaplex is one product that isn’t likely to impact your fertility, there are a handful of other products that you should be sure to avoid. These include certain acne products, hair straightening products, and anti-dandruff products that contain strong chemicals or formaldehyde, for example: 

• Prescription retinoids.
• Products with benzoyl peroxide.
• Products with salicylic acid.
• Keratin products.
• Prescription-strength anti-dandruff shampoos.

If you’re nervous about your exposure to chemicals that may cause infertility, your best bet is to do your research. Many cosmetic and household products in the U.S. don’t advertise that they’re using potentially harmful products, so you need to research independently and use reputable sources. Many products don’t contain high levels of toxic ingredients but rather small amounts that add up with frequent exposure. You can protect yourself by swapping out harmful products for healthier alternatives and gradually reducing the number of harmful products you keep at home.

Why should you choose Fertility Cloud to treat your infertility?

At Fertility Cloud, we value shared experiences. We want to help you navigate your struggles and celebrate your victories. Our team of experienced medical providers is dedicated to providing you with compassionate and professional care. Through every step of the way, we’ll do our very best to ensure your comfort and guide you through the fertility process.

At Fertility Cloud, everything is done remotely, from your communication with your doctor to your fertility tests. Appointments are conducted virtually, via live videoconferencing. All that’s required of you is either a computer, smartphone or tablet to join the call. 

We understand that finding convenient, high-quality medical care can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve selected some of the best reproductive endocrinology specialists. Our team can provide you with easily accessible digital services. Each one of our doctors is board-certified and state licensed.

While Olaplex isn’t likely to be a product that is causing your infertility, there may be other products that are. If you’re searching for more information about products that can cause infertility, health disorders that can cause infertility, and the top treatment for infertility, you should be sure to contact us. We’re ready to answer any questions you may have.
Contact our team by phone today for more information or book an initial appointment online with a fertility specialist.