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What's Really In Your Skincare?

Updated: Mar 21

On average, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) reports that women use 12 personal care products a day, exposing themselves to 168 chemical ingredients. And that doesn’t even account for the other chemicals we’re often exposed to—pesticides, cleaning products, flame retardants, air fresheners, and more. These can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormonal balance and contributing to numerous health conditions.




What Are Endocrine Disruptors?


The endocrine system consists of glands that produce hormones to regulate everything from metabolism and fertility to mood and immunity. Endocrine disruptors mimic or block our natural hormones, affecting multiple systems and contributing to:

  • Lowered sperm counts

  • Early puberty

  • Endometriosis

  • PCOS

  • Thyroid disorders

  • Breast and testicular cancer

  • Obesity and metabolic dysfunction



20 Harmful Ingredients to Avoid in Personal Care Products


Here are some of the most common and harmful ingredients to watch out for:


1. Parabens

Preservatives that mimic estrogen and interfere with reproductive health. Avoid: methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben


2. Phthalates

Used to make fragrances last longer and soften plastics—linked to hormonal disruption and developmental issues.

Avoid: DBP, DEP, DEHP, BBP


3. Fragrance/Parfum

A hidden cocktail of up to 4,000 chemicals. Linked to allergies, hormonal issues, and respiratory concerns.

Avoid: fragrance, parfum, aroma


4. Triclosan & Triclocarban

Antibacterial agents that disrupt thyroid function and contribute to antibiotic resistance.


5. Sulfates

Harsh cleansing agents that irritate skin and eyes.

Avoid: Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)


6. 1,4-Dioxane

A carcinogenic byproduct found in foaming agents.

Avoid: PEG compounds, anything with "-eth" or "-oxynol"


7. Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde Releasers

Preservatives linked to cancer and organ toxicity. Avoid: DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, quaternium-15


8. Oxybenzone

A chemical sunscreen agent and endocrine disruptor.Avoid: oxybenzone, benzophenone-3


9. Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)

Petroleum-based thickeners that strip natural oils and may contain contaminants.

Avoid: PEG- followed by a number (e.g., PEG-100)


10. Synthetic Colours

Made from coal tar or petroleum—linked to ADHD and cancer.

Avoid: FD&C or D&C followed by a colour and number


11. Talc

May contain asbestos and is linked to ovarian cancer.

Avoid: Talcum powder, cosmetic talc


12. Lead

A neurotoxin found in lipsticks and toothpaste.

Avoid: lead acetate, chromium, thimerosal


13. Diethanolamine (DEA)

Used to make products foam, but may be carcinogenic.

Avoid: DEA, TEA, MEA


14. Petrolatum

Creates a moisture barrier but may contain cancer-causing contaminants.

Avoid: petroleum, mineral oil, paraffin


15. Toluene

A solvent found in nail polish—linked to immune and neurological damage.

Avoid: toluene, methylbenzene, benzene


16. Hydroquinone

A skin-lightening agent associated with cancer and skin sensitivity.


17. BHA & BHT

Preservatives and potential carcinogens found in lip and skin products.


18. Ethanolamines (TEA, DEA, MEA)

Used in foaming and cleansing—linked to liver tumors and organ toxicity.


19. Phenoxyethanol

Preservative with links to eczema and nervous system issues in infants.


20. MIT & CMIT

Preservatives associated with lung toxicity and allergic reactions.



Tips for Safer Personal Care

  • Use non-toxic apps: Download the Chemical Maze App or EWG’s Skin Deep App to check ingredients.

  • Simplify: Choose products with minimal, transparent ingredient lists.

  • Read labels: Learn the common toxic ingredients above and what to avoid.

  • Support ethical brands: Look for companies that use organic, wildcrafted, or clean-certified ingredients.



Recommended Non-Toxic Brands




Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new products, supplements or herbs.


 
 
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