What’s Not In Our Skincare

Phthalate Free

Phthalates are a group of chemicals commonly used in many consumer products, including cosmetics, fragrances, plastics, and personal care products. While they serve various purposes such as enhancing flexibility and durability, there are concerns about their potential negative health effects.

  • Phthalates are known to interfere with the endocrine system, which regulates hormones in the body. They can mimic or block hormones, leading to hormonal imbalances that may disrupt normal bodily functions.

  • Research suggests that exposure to phthalates may be linked to reproductive issues in both males and females. In males, phthalates have been associated with reduced sperm quality and fertility problems. In females, they may affect hormone levels and menstrual irregularities.

  • Certain phthalates have been classified as reproductive toxicants, meaning they can adversely affect the development of the reproductive system in unborn babies and children.

  • Some studies have suggested a possible link between certain phthalates and an increased risk of cancer, although more research is needed to confirm this association definitively.

  • Phthalates are not only harmful to human health but also pose environmental risks. They can leach into the environment from products, contaminate water and soil, and persist for long periods, causing harm to wildlife and ecosystems.

Fragrance Free

Synthetic fragrance, while adding a pleasant scent to many consumer products, can also pose various risks to health and the environment.

  • Fragrances are one of the most common causes of allergic reactions and skin irritation. Many fragrances contain a mixture of chemicals, some of which can be irritating or allergenic to certain individuals, especially those with sensitive skin or respiratory conditions like asthma.

  • Some fragrance ingredients have been linked to endocrine disruption, meaning they can interfere with the body's hormonal balance. This interference can have various health effects, including reproductive issues, developmental problems, and disruptions in hormone-regulated processes.

  • Fragrance compounds, particularly volatile organic compounds (VOCs), can contribute to indoor air pollution and exacerbate respiratory conditions such as asthma and allergies. Inhaling fragrance chemicals can irritate the respiratory tract and worsen symptoms in susceptible individuals.

  • Many fragrance ingredients are derived from petrochemicals or synthesized in laboratories, and their production and use can contribute to air and water pollution. Fragrance chemicals can also accumulate in the environment, posing risks to wildlife and ecosystems.

  • Fragrance formulations are often considered trade secrets, and companies are not required to disclose the specific ingredients used in their fragrance blends. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for consumers to make informed choices about the products they use and can hinder efforts to identify potentially harmful ingredients.

  • Fragrance is ubiquitous in many consumer products, including cosmetics, personal care products, cleaning products, and air fresheners. As a result, individuals may be exposed to multiple fragrance ingredients throughout the day, increasing the risk of adverse health effects from cumulative exposure.

PEG Free

PEGs, or polyethylene glycols, are a group of low-cost synthetic compounds commonly used in cosmetics, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and even in some food products. While they serve various functions such as emulsifying, thickening, and moisturizing, there are concerns about their safety and potential negative effects on health and the environment.

  • PEGs can strip away the skin's natural oils and moisture, leading to dryness, irritation, and sensitization, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. High molecular weight PEGs are less likely to cause irritation, but lower molecular weight PEGs can penetrate the skin more easily, potentially causing more significant issues.

  • During the manufacturing process, PEGs can be contaminated with harmful substances such as ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, which are known carcinogens and can pose health risks even at low levels of exposure. These contaminants may not be listed on product labels because they are impurities rather than intentionally added ingredients.

  • PEGs are non-biodegradable and can accumulate in the environment, potentially causing harm to aquatic life and ecosystems. Additionally, the manufacturing process of PEGs can generate hazardous waste and contribute to air and water pollution.

  • Some studies suggest that certain PEGs, especially those with lower molecular weights, can enhance the absorption of other substances through the skin, which may increase the risk of systemic exposure to potentially harmful ingredients.

  • PEGs have been reported to cause allergic reactions in some individuals, including contact dermatitis and allergic contact eczema. These reactions can range from mild to severe and may require medical attention.

Paraben Free

Parabens are a group of synthetic chemicals commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics, personal care products, pharmaceuticals, and food. While they effectively prevent the growth of bacteria, mold, and yeast in products, there are concerns about their safety and potential negative effects on health.

  • Parabens have been found to mimic estrogen in the body, leading to concerns about their potential to disrupt the endocrine system. Studies have shown that parabens can bind to estrogen receptors on cells, potentially interfering with hormone function and signaling. This disruption has been associated with various health issues, including reproductive problems, hormone-related cancers (such as breast cancer), and developmental abnormalities.

  • Parabens have been detected in human urine, blood, and breast tissue, indicating that they can accumulate in the body over time. Prolonged exposure to parabens from multiple sources may lead to higher levels of accumulation, raising concerns about their potential long-term health effects.

  • Parabens can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. Some people may experience contact dermatitis, redness, itching, or swelling after using products containing parabens.

  • Parabens are not easily biodegradable and can persist in the environment after being washed down the drain. They have been detected in wastewater, rivers, lakes, and even marine organisms, posing risks to aquatic life and ecosystems. Additionally, parabens can undergo transformation into potentially more harmful compounds in the environment.

  • While regulatory agencies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Union's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) have deemed parabens safe for use in cosmetics at low concentrations, there is ongoing debate and scrutiny regarding their safety. Some countries and organizations have banned or restricted the use of certain types of parabens in cosmetics and personal care products due to safety concerns.