The beauty industry is full of products that promise to give us youthful, glowing skin. However, many contain potentially harmful ingredients. While these ingredients may help with texture, shelf-life, or scent, their long-term impact on health and skin can be detrimental. Let’s explore some of the most common toxic skincare ingredients, why they’re harmful, and how to choose safer alternatives.
Parabens
What They Are: Parabens are used as preservatives in skincare and cosmetic products to prevent mold and bacteria growth. You’ll often see parabens listed as methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben, or propylparaben on labels.
Why Avoid Them: Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, disrupting hormone function. Some studies suggest a link between parabens and reproductive health issues, as well as potential breast cancer risks, although further research is needed for conclusive evidence. Nonetheless, because parabens accumulate in the body over time, their hormone-disrupting effects may pose long-term health risks.
Safer Alternatives: Look for products labeled as “paraben-free” and consider brands that use natural preservatives like vitamin E or rosemary extract.
Phthalates
What They Are: Phthalates are used to increase the flexibility and durability of plastics but also appear in fragrances for their ability to hold scent. They’re commonly found in “fragrance” or “parfum” listed on labels.
Why Avoid Them: Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, potentially causing reproductive and developmental harm. In fact, they’re often referred to as “everywhere chemicals” because they’re widely used in various industries, which increases the body’s exposure to them over time. Pregnant women and children are especially advised to avoid phthalates due to potential risks to fetal development.
Safer Alternatives: Choose “phthalate-free” products and opt for unscented or naturally-scented options.
Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate)
What They Are: Sulfates are surfactants, meaning they help cleanse the skin by creating a lather that removes dirt and oil. They’re common in facial cleansers, body washes, and shampoos.
Why Avoid Them: Sulfates can strip away natural oils from the skin, causing dryness, irritation, and inflammation. Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) also has the risk of contamination from 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen. These chemicals are especially harsh on sensitive or already dry skin types.
Safer Alternatives: Look for sulfate-free options. Cleansers that use gentler ingredients like decyl glucoside or cocamidopropyl betaine provide effective cleansing without the harsh effects of sulfates.
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
What They Are: Formaldehyde is a preservative that prevents bacterial growth, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (like quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, and imidazolidinyl urea) gradually release small amounts of formaldehyde over time.
Why Avoid Them: Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen, meaning it can increase the risk of cancer. Additionally, it’s a strong skin irritant and can lead to allergic reactions, particularly in sensitive individuals. Despite these risks, some products may still use it or release it slowly over time, putting users at risk.
Safer Alternatives: Opt for products labeled as “formaldehyde-free.” Many natural preservatives, such as essential oils or benzyl alcohol, are effective without the risks of formaldehyde.
Synthetic Fragrances
What They Are: Synthetic fragrances are man-made chemical scents used in skincare, haircare, and cosmetics. They’re usually listed on labels as “fragrance” or “parfum,” which can mask hundreds of chemicals.
Why Avoid Them: Many synthetic fragrances contain phthalates and other chemicals that can cause skin irritation, allergies, and endocrine disruption. Because fragrance formulas are considered trade secrets, companies don’t have to disclose the specific chemicals used, making it difficult to know exactly what’s in the product.
Safer Alternatives: Look for products that use essential oils or botanical extracts for scent or are labeled “fragrance-free.”
Triclosan
What It Is: Triclosan is an antibacterial and antifungal agent found in some soaps, hand sanitizers, and skincare products.
Why Avoid It: Triclosan is another known endocrine disruptor, which can interfere with thyroid function. Overuse of triclosan may also contribute to antibiotic resistance, which poses a public health risk. Some research suggests triclosan may even weaken immune function over time.
Safer Alternatives: Opt for antibacterial products that use natural ingredients like tea tree oil or thyme extract. These alternatives are effective without the negative health impacts of triclosan.
Polyethylene Glycol (PEGs)
What They Are: PEGs are used as thickeners, softeners, and moisture-carriers in skincare products. You’ll often find them in creams and lotions to help deliver moisture.
Why Avoid Them: PEGs can be contaminated with ethylene oxide, a known carcinogen, and 1,4-dioxane, a possible carcinogen. These impurities are especially concerning as PEGs are often used in products that stay on the skin for long periods. Additionally, PEGs can increase skin permeability, allowing other harmful chemicals to penetrate more easily.
Safer Alternatives: For moisturizers and creams, seek out products with natural, plant-based oils like jojoba, shea butter, or coconut oil.
Mineral Oil and Petroleum-Based Ingredients
What They Are: Mineral oil, paraffin, and petrolatum are petroleum by-products often used as moisturizing agents.
Why Avoid Them: Petroleum-based ingredients form a barrier over the skin, which can clog pores and lead to breakouts in acne-prone skin. They’re often linked to potential contamination with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are carcinogenic. While refined petroleum products used in cosmetics should be safe, it’s worth opting for alternatives to avoid potential impurities.
Safer Alternatives: Use natural oils like argan, avocado, or grapeseed oil for hydration.
Oxybenzone
What It Is: Oxybenzone is a chemical sunscreen agent used to protect against UV rays.
Why Avoid It: Oxybenzone can disrupt hormone function and has been linked to lower birth weights in newborns. It’s also an environmental pollutant, as it harms coral reefs and marine life. When it comes to sun protection, safer options that don’t harm your skin or the environment are preferable.
Safer Alternatives: Mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are safer for both human health and the environment.
Making Safer Choices in Skincare
To avoid harmful ingredients, start by thoroughly reading product labels. A good rule of thumb is to stick with brands that prioritize transparency and list their full ingredient profiles, including scent sources. Here are some additional tips for a cleaner skincare routine:
- Look for Certifications: Seek out products with certifications like USDA Organic, Ecocert, or EWG Verified, which signal higher standards of safety.
- Use Fewer Products: Fewer products can mean fewer toxic ingredients. Simplifying your skincare routine to just a few well-chosen products can be gentler on your skin and health.
- Do Your Research: Resources like the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Skin Deep database allow you to check products for toxic ingredients.
Take Care of Yourself AND the Earth
Choosing skincare products free from toxic ingredients can seem overwhelming, but small changes can make a big impact on your health and the environment. By avoiding harmful ingredients and making informed choices, you can enjoy a skincare routine that not only enhances your skin’s appearance but also supports long-term health and wellness. Clean, safe skincare is an investment in both your skin and your future.
