Sulphates
Sulphates are chemicals that are used in skincare products to turn liquids into a lather. They are added in shampoos, shower gels, soaps, toothpastes etc. The most common sulfates you’ll find in personal care products are Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES). It is best to avoid them as they may cause irritation to skin, eyes and scalp.
Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals that are used in cosmetics and personal care products as solvents or as lubricants and can be found in perfume, nail polish, shampoo, hair spray etc. The most common phthalates you’ll find in personal care products are Dibutylphthalate, Diethylphthalate and Dimethylphthalate. Phthalates can be absorbed through skin. You should avoid them as they are known endocrine disruptors and can be potentially carcinogenic. Unfortunately, it is not easy to detect them as they are included in “fragrance”.
Petrochemicals
Petrochemicals are chemicals obtained from petroleum and natural gas and are widely used in cosmetics and beauty products. You will find them in nearly all personal care products: shampoo, shower gel, lotion, soap, makeup, deodorant, etc. They are used to extend the shelf life of the products but also as moisturizing agents. Petrochemicals can cause irritations and allergies and many of them are linked to skin cancer. The list of petrochemicals used in the cosmetics industry is very long and it is not easy to detect them all. Most common ingredients you should try to avoid are: Toluene, Benzene, PEG, DEA and MEA, Propylene Glycol, EDTA, Mineral Oil, BHT, Butanol
Parabens
Parabens are chemicals that are used in skincare products as preservatives. They prevent the development of bacteria and extend the shelf life of the products. Parabens are believed to disrupt the endocrine system and have been linked to skin cancer. Most common parabens in skincare and beauty products are methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben and ethylparaben.
Aluminum
Aluminum is used in most conventional antiperspirants to prevent sweating. Sweating is a natural function that helps regulate your body temperature. Through sweat, harmful toxins are released and certain impurities (pollutants, dirt) are expelled. Regular deodorants and antiperspirants that contain aluminum, block sweat and this often causes inflammations. It is better to opt for natural deodorants as they have many benefits.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde in cosmetics is widely used as a preservative to extend the shelf life and prevent the development of bacteria. It can be found in nail polish, make up, deodorants, etc. Formaldehyde can cause allergic skin reactions and rashes in some people and it's a known carcinogen when its fumes are inhaled.
Lastly, you may be interested in this article:
Terms in the Beauty Industry: Organic, Natural, Vegan, Cruelty free. What do they mean?
