Ingredients to Avoid in Skincare

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PARABENS Parabens including methyl parabens, isobutyl parabens, propyl parabens, and others are a family of preservatives used to inhibit the growth of germs and mold in skin care products.

SYNTHETIC FRAGRANCE This includes all synthetic fragrances. These may have 3,000+ chemical ingredients including known allergens and identified hormone disruptors.

COAL TAR Coal tar is a carcinogen, irritant, and respiratory toxin. Hair colors and anti-dandruff shampoos include it.

PHTHALATES Plasticizing phthalates include DBP, DEHP, and DEP. They make perfumes in skin care products stick to the skin. This ingredient family alters the endocrine system and is harmful to human organs.

OCTINOXATE Octinoxate is suspected of producing endocrine disruption, organ damage, and cellular level changes. Hawaii has previously banned this ingredient in sunscreens.

PEG (POLYETHYLENE GLYCOL) This component is used to thicken and hydrate skin care products. The danger with this ingredient is that, based on manufacturing processes, it might be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both of which are carcinogens.

FORMALDEHYDE This component is harmful, as per data. It's also a preservative in cosmetics.  It causes asthma, neurotoxicity, developmental toxicity, and skin, eye, and lung irritation.

RETINOL Retinol is a synthetic version of Vitamin A. Details from an FDA research show that retinoid ingredients may speed the development of skin cancers and lesions on sun-exposed skin" (EWG) (EWG).

SLES (SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE) SLES is used similarly to SLS but often includes 1,4-dioxane.  1,4-dioxane is a carcinogen. Mostly found in shampoo, and body wash.

SLS (SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE) SLS may cause skin, eye, and lung irritation. Also causes allergies. Non-reproductive organ toxicity and environmental toxicity are other problems.

BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE It's a disinfectant, preservative, and surfactant. It's in cleaning supplies and personal care goods like deodorant and moisturizer. This chemical causes severe skin, eye, and respiratory irritation.

HYDROQUINONE Over-the-counter medications often contain hydroquinone. It's also used as a skin-lightening agent that inhibits melanin production. It causes organ toxicity, cancer, and skin irritations.

LEAD Lead is found naturally in the environment and as an impurity in lipsticks, eye shadows, blushes, compact powders, shampoos, and body lotions. Lead is known as a carcinogen. Lead may harm the kidneys, blood, and nervous system.