Skincare and Hair Products –When you apply your moisturizer in the morning, how closely are you paying attention to its ingredients? What about your shampoo, hairspray, or makeup? Many of these products come into direct contact with our skin, yet they may contain harmful chemicals. According to experts at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), numerous personal care products contain toxic ingredients that could be affecting your health.
In 2024, California banned 12 harmful cosmetic ingredients that were already prohibited in the European Union. However, several other states still allow the use of dangerous chemicals in personal care products. The problem is not just individual ingredients—it’s also the combination of multiple chemicals and their cumulative effect on the body. Experts call this the “body burden.”
To reduce exposure, here’s what you need to watch out for on product labels and why you should avoid them.
1. Fragrance
Why It’s Harmful:
Skincare and Hair Products-Many products list “fragrance” as an ingredient, but what does that really mean? Companies can use this term as a loophole to hide hundreds of undisclosed chemicals in their formulas. Some of these hidden ingredients may include phthalates, allergens, and potential endocrine disruptors.
What to Look for on Labels:
- Avoid products that list “fragrance,” “parfum,” or “perfume” without disclosing specific ingredients.
- Look for products labeled “fragrance-free” or “naturally scented” with essential oils.
2. Formaldehyde
Why It’s Harmful:
Skincare and Hair Products-Formaldehyde is classified as a known carcinogen and has been linked to leukemia and nasopharyngeal cancer. It is commonly found in hair smoothing treatments and some shampoos.
What to Look for on Labels:
- Quaternium-15
- DMDM hydantoin
- Imidazolidinyl urea
- Diazolidinyl urea
- Polyoxymethylene urea
- Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate
- Bronopol
- Glyoxal
3. Methylene Glycol
Why It’s Harmful:
Skincare and Hair Products-This chemical is essentially a liquid form of formaldehyde. When heated (such as during hair straightening treatments), it releases formaldehyde gas, which can be inhaled, leading to serious health risks.
What to Look for on Labels:
- Methylene glycol
4. Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (QACs)
Why It’s Harmful:
These chemicals are commonly used in hair and skin products as preservatives but can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and even trigger asthma.
What to Look for on Labels:
- Ingredients ending in “-monium chloride”
- “Quaternium” compounds like behentrimonium chloride and cetrimonium chloride
5. Phthalates
Why It’s Harmful:
Phthalates help fragrances last longer, but they are known endocrine disruptors. They have been linked to reproductive issues, early puberty, and hormone imbalances.
What to Look for on Labels:
- Dibutyl phthalate (DBP)
- Dimethyl phthalate (DMP)
- Diethyl phthalate (DEP)
- Any ingredient ending in “-phthalate”
6. Parabens
Why It’s Harmful:
Parabens act as preservatives but have been linked to hormonal disruptions and breast cancer. They mimic estrogen and can build up in the body over time.
What to Look for on Labels:
- Methylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
7. PFAS Chemicals (“Forever Chemicals”)
Why It’s Harmful:
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are industrial chemicals that do not break down in the environment or in our bodies. They have been linked to thyroid disease, kidney cancer, and reproductive issues.
What to Look for on Labels:
- Ingredients starting with “perfluoro-” or “polyfluoro-“
- Found in waterproof cosmetics, nonstick products, and long-lasting makeup
8. Isothiazolinones
Why It’s Harmful:
These preservatives prevent microbial growth but can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and eczema, especially in sensitive individuals.
What to Look for on Labels:
- Methylisothiazolinone
- Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Final Thoughts: Choose Safer Alternatives
Avoiding these harmful ingredients doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite beauty routine. Look for natural and organic brands that use safer preservatives and disclose their full ingredient list. The fewer synthetic chemicals, the better for your skin and overall health.
By reading labels carefully and choosing non-toxic alternatives, you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals and maintain a healthier beauty routine.
