Learn more About Ingredients to Avoid

Ingredients to Watch Out For

Choosing clean, safe, and effective products starts with understanding what goes into them. Here's a guide to some ingredients we avoid in your beauty routine and why:

Synthetic Preservatives: Parabens

Examples: Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben
Linked to hormonal disruptions and potential skin irritation, parabens are often used to extend shelf life at the expense of your health.

Artificial Fragrances

Synthetic fragrances may smell pleasant, but they can trigger skin irritation, allergies, and even respiratory issues. Choose “fragrance-free” options or products scented with natural essential oils instead.

Phthalates

Examples: DEHP, DBP, DMP
These chemicals are found in synthetic fragrances and plastic packaging and are associated with hormone disruption and reproductive health concerns.

Formaldehyde & Releasing Agents

Examples: DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15
Known as potential carcinogens, these preservatives can irritate skin, cause respiratory issues, and pose long-term health risks.

Sulfates

Examples: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Common in cleansers and shampoos, these harsh detergents strip the skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even acne.

Mineral Oil & Petroleum Derivatives

Examples: Petrolatum, Paraffin Wax
While these soften the skin, they can clog pores, preventing natural detoxification and causing breakouts.

Synthetic Dyes

Examples: FD&C and D&C Colors
Artificial colorants can irritate the skin and have been linked to allergic reactions and potential health risks.

Triclosan & Triclocarban

Used in antibacterial products, these chemicals may disrupt hormones, harm the environment, and contribute to antibiotic resistance.

Chemical Sunscreen Ingredients

Examples: Oxybenzone, Octinoxate
Linked to hormone disruption and environmental damage, these ingredients are also known to harm coral reefs.

PEGs (Polyethylene Glycol)

Used as thickeners and solvents, PEGs can strip natural oils and are sometimes contaminated with carcinogenic compounds.

Talc

Common in powders, talc has been linked to ovarian cancer and respiratory issues when inhaled.

Alcohols & Drying Agents

Certain alcohols can dry out the skin, disrupting its natural barrier and leaving it prone to irritation.

Hydroquinone

A skin-lightening agent tied to serious health concerns, including potential carcinogenic effects.

Other Ingredients of Concern

• Methylisothiazolinone (MIT) & Methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT): Irritating preservatives.
• Phenoxyethanol: May cause skin irritation for sensitive individuals.
• Toluene: Found in nail products, this solvent may impact the immune system.
• Lead: A heavy metal contaminant often found in lipsticks.

Why It Matters

Prioritizing your skin’s health and the environment means avoiding these potentially harmful chemicals. Instead, look for products made with natural, non-toxic ingredients that nourish your body without compromise.

For more information, check these resources:

• [Campaign for Safe Cosmetics (CSC)]
• [FDA Guidelines on Cosmetic Ingredients]
• [European Union's Prohibited Substances in Cosmetics]