You shouldn’t have to question what your products contain regarding daily skincare.

 Unfortunately, due to limited regulation and the lack of FDA approval, though that doesn’t always guarantee safety, many skincare products and cosmetics contain known carcinogens and endocrine disruptors.These are the very products you might unknowingly be using. Most women use 3 to 5 skincare products daily; however, when we consider all personal care products, this number rises to about 12, each of which can contain these toxins, leading to multiple exposures. While I can’t cover the entire list of toxic ingredients, here are ten commonly encountered ones you should avoid. As I always say, less is more when it comes to what you put in and on your body. If you don’t understand where an ingredient comes from, or if the ingredient list is longer than this paragraph, it’s best to steer clear.

 

1. Phthalates: The first ingredient that has no place in your skincare is phthalates. You can identify these on your ingredient list by looking for terms ending in “phthalates,” such as “dimethyl phthalate.” They are used as skin softeners, helping moisturizers absorb into the skin and extending the longevity of colors and scents. Unfortunately, phthalates are known endocrine disruptors that can block and mimic hormones in the body. They have been linked to a variety of health issues, including thyroid dysfunction, preterm delivery, neurodevelopmental problems in children, respiratory issues, and impaired immune function, among others. You will find them not only in lotions and skincare products but also in nail polish, shampoos, clothing, and food packaging. While it’s safe to assume that everyone has been exposed to them, we can help mitigate the damage and reduce risk by avoiding products that contain phthalates.

 

2. Fragrances: One ingredient notorious for containing phthalates is fragrances, with approximately 75% of them having these harmful compounds. These synthetic scents are often labeled as “parfums” or “perfumes” in skincare products, and they are also known as endocrine disruptors linked to reproductive issues and congenital disabilities. Additionally, fragrances are common irritants, causing migraines, respiratory problems, rashes, dermatitis, and a burning sensation. Their primary purpose? To create a more pleasant scent. Scent plays a significant role in how we perceive a product and is often used as a marketing tool. The most concerning aspect of these fragrances is that they can contain hundreds of chemicals. Yet, companies are not required to disclose them, leading to a lack of transparency about what’s in your product. Moreover, don’t be fooled: natural fragrances can still contain harmful toxins. Always opt for fragrance-free products rather than unscented ones, as the latter can still include masking fragrances.

 

3. PFAs: PFAs, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are known as “forever chemicals” because they remain in our bodies and the environment for a long time, posing health risks long after exposure. They have been found in 99% of human blood samples. This widespread presence is due to PFAs in our products and our air, soil, and water, making avoidance particularly challenging. However, we can significantly reduce exposure by controlling what we consume and apply to our bodies. PFAs were introduced in the 1940s, primarily through Teflon and non-stick pans, designed to resist water and grease. If you still use non-stick cookware, eliminating it is a crucial first step in reducing exposure. In skincare and cosmetics, PFAs are often used in waterproof products and to create a smooth, spreadable texture. They are known carcinogens linked to various cancers, including testicular and liver cancer, as well as obesity, low birth weight, reproductive issues, and immune dysfunction. Although some states, like Minnesota and Oregon, have banned the intentional addition of PFAs to products, they can still be present due to cross-contamination. When looking at a product's ingredient list, avoid ones that start with per”, such as perfluorononyl dimethicone.

 

 

4.  Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde is one you may have heard of before, as it naturally occurs in our environment through combustion, plant decay, and the metabolism of animals and humans. However, there are both natural and synthetic forms of formaldehyde. Although they are chemically identical (CH2O), mass-producing synthetic formaldehyde increases its concentration in our environment and exposure risks. It is a common ingredient in caulks, glues, paints, and building materials like plywood, meaning you’ll likely find higher levels in new homes. As a preservative and antimicrobial agent, formaldehyde is so prevalent that it is also used in embalming. While low levels we are naturally exposed to do not pose a significant threat, increased product use can be problematic. Unfortunately, formaldehyde is not limited to building materials and embalming; it is also a common preservative in skincare and personal care products. However, you won’t often see “formaldehyde” listed directly on the ingredient label; instead, you might encounter formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRPs). Common FRPs include methylene glycol, quaternium-15, and DMDM hydantoin. Look for these ingredients and familiarize yourself with other FRPs to ensure formaldehyde doesn’t find its way into your skincare.

 

5.  Coal Tar: This known carcinogen is a byproduct of the coal industry and can be found in everything from foods and pavement tar to coal-tar paints, coal-tar enamels, roofing tar, and, of course, skincare and cosmetics. While it is used as an artificial coloring, it is surprisingly also employed as a therapeutic agent in skincare for conditions like eczema and psoriasis, due to its purported antibacterial properties. However, I’d say you’re better off using alternatives, as it has been linked to skin tumors, neurological damage, and cancers of the skin, lungs, bladder, and stomach. When examining product ingredients, coal tar may appear under various names, including Benzin B70, petroleum benzine, coal, tar, coal tar solution, estar, impervotar, naphtha distillate, naphtha, carbo-court, KC 261, and pix carbonis - phew!

 

6. PEGs: PEGs, or polyethylene glycols, are petroleum-based compounds used in nearly every cosmetic product as thickeners, moisturizers, and skin softeners. While PEGs are not classified as carcinogens, their production often involves contamination with known carcinogens such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane. Additionally, PEGs enhance the penetration of other ingredients, allowing harmful substances to be absorbed more readily by the skin. Although ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane won’t appear directly on the ingredient label, you should be wary of PEGs, which are typically listed as “PEG” followed by a number and sometimes an additional descriptor, such as PEG-20 or PEG-20 cocamine.

 

7. Triclosan: Since the 1960s, triclosan has been used as an antibacterial agent, initially developed for surgical soaps. Over the years, it has infiltrated many products, from mattresses and shower curtains to cosmetics. You can find triclosan in facial cleansers, concealers, deodorants, and toothpaste. The FDA has tried to regulate its use; in 2016, it began restricting triclosan in certain products like hand soaps. Unfortunately, it remains unregulated in many non-ingested items, such as children’s toys and furniture, and continues to be heavily used in skincare and cosmetics. In ingredient lists, triclosan may appear as either triclocarban or triclosan. This compound poses various risks, including antimicrobial resistance, weakened immune function, and potential links to liver cancer, as well as acting as an endocrine disruptor. Moreover, triclosan has profound environmental implications; it tends to bioaccumulate and has been detected in 58% of waterways. So, for the sake of your health and our environment, stay clear of this ingredient!

 

8. Oxybenzone: Yet another hormone disruptor, oxybenzone, is found in over 3,500 skincare products, particularly popular for its claimed ability to “protect” the skin from UV rays. Alarmingly, studies suggest that 97% of people have oxybenzone in their systems. First introduced in the 1980s, mounting evidence has revealed its harmful effects on human health and the environment, especially concerning coral reefs, where it contributes to bleaching and genetic damage. As an endocrine disruptor, oxybenzone has been linked to thyroid issues, estrogen dominance, low testosterone, and various reproductive and developmental problems. Ironically, it has also been shown to increase the risk of skin cancer, the very condition it is supposed to help prevent. If you use SPF face products, choose one free of oxybenzone, which often appears as benzophenone-3 on ingredient labels. Save the coral reefs and protect yourself by saying no to oxybenzone!

 

9. Parabens: Parabens are among the most prevalent toxins found in skincare products. These artificial preservatives have been in use since the 1920s and, once again, serve as endocrine disruptors that have no place in our skincare routines. They mimic estrogen in the body, posing risks for various endocrine-related issues, including endometriosis and breast cancer. Additionally, parabens are linked to reproductive problems such as infertility, preterm birth, and decreased birth weight. In men, they can lead to infertility by reducing sperm count. While parabens are found in many skincare products, they are especially prevalent in water-based formulations to extend shelf life. On ingredient lists, they will typically appear as names ending in “paraben,” such as butylparaben.

 

10. Hydroquinone: Hydroquinone, a skin lightener, is banned in the UK but remains permitted in small amounts in many moisturizers, skin lighteners, and facial cleansers. It is a known carcinogen and can appear on ingredient lists as either hydroquinone or tocopheryl acetate. Hydroquinone has been associated with skin conditions such as ochronosis and an increased risk of skin cancer.

 

Conclusion

As you’ve read, many toxins are already prevalent in our bodies and the environment, making it crucial to reduce our exposure where possible. Starting with skincare and then expanding to other products in your life is a practical step. If you’re looking for clean skincare, don’t forget to explore our herbal-based products!