The 10 Ingredients Brands Hope You Don’t Google
- 4 days ago
- 5 min read
In a world where we’re increasingly conscious of what we put in and on our bodies, the ingredients in our everyday products often remain shrouded in mystery. While brands market their items as safe and effective, many contain substances that raise eyebrows—or worse, alarms. More conscious consumers already know to avoid Parabens, Phthalates & SLS (if you're not familiar or need a refresher, read more about them here), but these ten might now yet be on your radar.
Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde‑Releasing Preservatives
What it is: A colorless gas used as a preservative in many personal care products and household cleaners. Often found in hair straightening treatments, nail polish and remover, some soaps, lipsticks, and other products. Also often used in furniture production and building materials. On product labels, it could also appear as Imidazolidinyl Urea or Diazolidinyl Urea.
Why it’s used: It prevents spoilage and microbial growth, making it a common ingredient in hair straightening treatments and nail products.
Why it’s controversial: Classified as a human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), formaldehyde exposure can lead to respiratory issues and skin irritation. It contributes to indoor air contamination.
Safer swaps: Look for formaldehyde-free hair products and nail polishes that use safer preservatives like phenoxyethanol.
Triclosan
What it is: An antibacterial agent used in soaps, toothpaste, and household cleaners.
Why it’s used: It helps reduce or prevent bacterial contamination.
Why it’s controversial: Triclosan has been linked to antibiotic resistance and hormone disruption. The FDA has banned its use in antibacterial soaps, yet it still appears in other products. Studies have found triclosan in human breast milk, urine, and blood plasma.
Safer swaps: Choose soap and cleaners that are free from triclosan. There are many safer plant-derived and non-toxic antimicrobials that are better alternatives.
Artificial Fragrances (Parfum)
What it is: A blend of synthetic chemicals used to create pleasant scents in personal care and household products.
Why it’s used: They enhance the sensory experience of products, making them more appealing to consumers.
Why it’s controversial: Artificial fragrances can contain hundreds of undisclosed chemicals (fragrance blend is considered a trade secret, and companies are not legally required to disclose the ingredients), some of which may cause allergies, asthma, and hormone disruption.
Safer swaps: Look for products with “fragrance-free” or “naturally scented” labels that use essential oils. If you do choose to use scented products, look for companies that disclose the ingredient list or use fragrance blends that are Parabens, Phthalates & SLS free.
Read more about fragrance here.
Octinoxate
What it is: A chemical filter used in sunscreens to absorb UV radiation.
Why it’s used: It helps protect the skin from sun damage while providing a lightweight feel.
Why it’s controversial: Octinoxate has been linked to coral reef bleaching and hormone disruption. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has raised concerns about its environmental impact.
Safer swaps: Choose mineral-based sunscreens containing non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for safer sun protection.
2‑Butoxyethanol (EGBE)
What it is: A solvent frequently used in cleaning products, industrial applications, hair and nail products, paints, inks, and as a food additive.
Why it’s used: It's effective at dissolving oils and greases, making it a popular choice in household cleaners and paint thinners.
Why it’s controversial: Exposure can lead to respiratory issues, skin irritation, and potential reproductive toxicity.
Safer swaps: Consider using vinegar, baking soda, or plant-based cleaners that do not contain harmful solvents.
Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC)
What it is: A substance used as a disinfectant in facial and body cleansers, antibacterial hand sanitizers, hand soaps, makeup removers, and many other personal care items.
Why it’s used: It has antimicrobial properties that make it effective against bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Why it’s controversial: Skin irritation, asthma triggers, and the potential for developing antimicrobial resistance are major concerns.
Safer swaps: Choose disinfectants that are less irritating. Seek out non-toxic or plant-based antimicrobials.
Toluene
(also known as Butylated Hydroxytoluene, or BHT)
What it is: A colorless, flammable liquid used as a solvent in paint thinners, nail polish and treatments.
Why it’s used: It helps to dissolve other substances and is valued for its ability to improve the smoothness of products.
Why it’s controversial: Exposure can lead to neurological damage, respiratory issues, and developmental harm.
Safer swaps: Use water-based or non-toxic alternatives for nail care and painting.
Diethanolamine (DEA):
What it is: A compound used in some personal care products for its emulsifying and foaming properties. Prohibited for use in cosmetics in Canada and the EU.
Why it’s used: It helps to stabilize formulations and improve texture in shampoos and lotions.
Why it’s controversial: It can react with other ingredients to form potentially carcinogenic toxins.
Safer swaps: Choose products that use safer emulsifiers like glyceryl stearate or natural oils.
Talc
What it is: A mineral used in various cosmetic and personal care products, particularly in powders.
Why it’s used: It absorbs moisture and helps to prevent caking in formulations.
Why it’s controversial: Talc can be safe. However, concerns about contamination with asbestos and potential links to cancer have led to increased scrutiny. Testing talc for asbestos is complex, and not all companies reveal whether their talc has been tested.
Safer swaps: Choose talc- free products. Consider cornstarch or arrowroot powder as alternatives for moisture absorption.
Per- and Polyfluoralkyl substances (also known as PFAS, or Forever Chemicals)
What it is: PFAS are not just a single substance; they represent an entire category of “forever chemicals.” (Think about those scratched Teflon pans!)
While it's not an exact science, be cautious with any ingredient that begins with "Perfluoro" (for example, Perfluorodecalin, Perfluorooctyl Triethoxysilane, Methyl Perfluorobutyl Ether, etc.).
Why it’s used: These chemicals enhance texture and contribute to the longevity and durability of products (like waterproof mascara and long-wear foundation, for instance).
Why it’s controversial: Only a small number of PFAS have been thoroughly researched, and those that have already indicate significant health risks. Hundreds of others in this category lack sufficient toxicity data or regulatory oversight. The Environmental Working Group categorizes PFAS as highly toxic due to their persistence in the environment and their documented health impacts.
Safer swaps: Since PFAs chemicals serve various functions, finding better alternatives will depend on the specific role each PFA plays. The best option is to avoid these chemicals altogether.
Conclusion
As consumers, it's crucial to remain informed about the ingredients in the products we use daily. While many brands may hope you don't Google these ingredients, knowledge is power. By understanding what these substances are, why they’re used, and the potential risks involved, you can make informed choices that prioritize your health and well-being. Always opt for safer alternatives whenever possible, and don’t hesitate to advocate for transparency in product labeling.
References
Environmental Working Group (EWG). (n.d.). Skin Deep Cosmetic Database.
World Health Organization (WHO). (n.d.). Chemical Safety.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (n.d.). Chemicals and Toxic Substances.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (n.d.). Cosmetics.
NEWS, Medical Life Sciences (n.d.). What is Triclosan and Why is it Banned?
National Library of Medicine
