How to Recognize Toxic Chemicals in Beauty Care Products

Underneath the glossy media image of some beauty products, they contain many toxic chemicals that can actually make them more harmful than beneficial. In their efforts to catch up with the trend, many beauty product manufacturers advertise that their products are 'natural,' 'organic,' 'herbal,' etc. The following list, however, shows the most common toxic chemicals that are found in skin, hair, and cosmetic products. Check the list of ingredients for any of these chemicals before you decide what to purchase.

Mineral Oil

Also called petrolatum or paraffin wax, mineral oil is a petroleum ingredient that 'wraps' around the skin and blocks the pores. This inhibits the natural moisturizing and breathing functions of the skin. The toxins can not be naturally eliminated, which can lead to acne and other problems. The oil obstructs cell development, causing the skin to age prematurely. Baby oil contains mineral oil, but the substance can be found in many other skin moisturizing beauty products.  

Propylene Glycol

(PG) is used in beauty products to retain the skin’s moisture but at the same time, this substance is an active ingredient in antifreeze. It irritates the skin and can cause damage to the liver and the kidneys.  

Isopropyl Alcohol

This is a toxic substance made of a petroleum derivative and dries out the skin, causing irritations and leading to premature skin aging. The substance is found in aftershaves as well as perfumes.

Formaldehyde and Parabens

Formaledehyde is used as a preservative, but it is a carcinogen and can cause skin irritation. Parabens are also preservatives used in a wide range of beauty products. They can be in the form of ethylparaben, butylparaben, methylparaben, or propylparaben.

Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

These substances help liquids distribute more evenly and cause the foaming in shampoos. However, they dry out and irritate the skin and can cause corneal damage. If combined with certain chemicals, SLES can create carcinogens called nitrosamines. They are typically found in shampoos, toothpaste and cleansers. 

Fragrances

According to the FDA, this category can include up to 4000 different substances, most of which are synthetics. These are often toxic and highly carcinogenic. They can cause skin irritation or rashes, headaches, vomiting, dizziness and other malfunctions. Fragrance is found in most beauty products, but keep in mind that even if the label reads 'unscented,' that does not mean it is fragrance-free.  

Talc

Talc is used in body and baby powders. Studies have found a link between ovarian cancer and talcum powder if regularly applied to the genital area. 

Other Toxic Chemicals

Some other toxic substances widely found in beauty care products include:

• Polyethylene glycol (PEG)
• FD&C Color Pigments
• DEA (diethanolamine)
• MEA (Monoethanolamine)
• TEA (triethanolamine)
• Phthalates
• Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA)
• Collagen

The list can go on and on. Be aware that even though a certain chemical might not appear on the label, the substance might be listed as a derivative or compound under another name.