Buzz
When shopping for beauty products, keep this in mind: just because something is on the shelves of a trusted store doesn't guarantee it's safe. (Let's not forget the long history of lead being used in cosmetics.)
Navigating the long lists of ingredients on beauty product labels can be overwhelming. Fortunately, there are websites and apps to make the process simpler. EWG's Skin Deep database lets you search for ingredients and products to see if they meet the nonprofit's strict standards. Apps like Yuka allow you to scan products to check for harmful substances like endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, allergens, or irritants. Unfortunately, the app doesn't cover every product, so when unsure, use this dermatologist-approved guide to harmful ingredients before making a purchase.
1. Chemical Sunscreens
Recent research revealed that six common chemical sunscreen ingredients are absorbed into the bloodstream, surpassing safe levels. "One ingredient—oxybenzone—had an absorption rate 188 times above the safe threshold after just one use," explains Dennis Gross, MD, a dermatologist and dermatological surgeon. "After four applications, the absorption was 500 times the safe level. These chemicals remained in the blood for anywhere from one to 21 days, depending on the ingredient used."
Oxybenzone has long been recognized as an endocrine disruptor, with significant implications for fertility. Additionally, chemical sunscreens should be avoided during pregnancy due to their association with birth defects. The American Academy of Pediatrics also advises against using sunscreens with oxybenzone on children. Dr. Gross recommends using mineral sunscreen instead, as it sits on the skin's surface and isn't absorbed. The active ingredients in these safe sunscreens are zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide.
RELATED: 15 Top Mineral Sunscreens
2. Methylisothiazolinone
Methylisothiazolinone is a preservative commonly found in water-based products like shampoos and facial cleansers. "Even in small amounts, it's a potent allergen that can cause burning, itching, or even hives," says Marie Hayag, MD, a dermatologist and founder of 5th Avenue Aesthetics. "People with sensitive skin should steer clear of this ingredient, especially in leave-on formulations."
3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Sodium lauryl sulfate is a commonly used cleansing agent found in various personal care products, including shampoos, body washes, and facial cleansers," explains Dr. Hayag. "It often causes irritation and can trigger allergic reactions. If not properly rinsed off, its residue can leave skin feeling dry and strip away essential ceramide levels." She recommends products containing fatty alcohols as alternatives. "Castile-based soaps or cleansers are excellent choices," she suggests, highlighting Seven Minerals as a great body wash option. For makeup brush cleaners, try Ecotools, which uses citric acid to cleanse without harsh chemicals.
4. Acrylates (Ethyl Acrylate, Ethyl Methacrylate, and Methyl Methacrylate)
Acrylates are commonly used in artificial nails and false eyelashes as adhesives. They are known to trigger contact allergies in many people, according to Dr. Hayag. "Various acrylates are also linked to additional health concerns, such as potential carcinogenic effects," she explains. "Since nearly all artificial nail products contain some form of acrylate, it's advisable to either avoid them or significantly reduce their use."
5. Parabens
Parabens are some of the most notorious harmful ingredients, yet these petroleum-based preservatives remain alarmingly widespread. They are linked to breast cancer and known to act as endocrine disruptors, mimicking estrogen in the body, leading to hormonal imbalances and potential fertility issues.
"Parabens can appear under various names, with the most common being methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben," says Debra Jaliman, MD, a dermatologist and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist. Dr. Jaliman points out that parabens are especially prevalent in makeup and moisturizers.
6. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is often hailed as a miracle solution for acne and various skin concerns, but Howard Sobel, MD, founder of Sobel Skin and dermatologist at Lenox Hill Hospital, warns that it can worsen breakouts by blocking nearby pores. While he advises against using pure coconut oil, he also suggests avoiding products like face masks and moisturizers that contain it. "Even in small amounts, it can still be irritating, so it's better to just avoid it altogether," he advises.
7. Fragrances
Many people prioritize fragrance when selecting skincare, but it's important to check that no artificial scents have been added before making a choice. Natural scents like essential oils can trigger allergic reactions, while synthetic fragrances may cause problems for some individuals. "Most products contain fragrance compounds made from chemicals, which have been shown to cause allergic skin reactions, headaches, dizziness, rashes, respiratory issues, skin irritation, pigmentation changes, and hyperactivity," says Anne-Claire Walch, PhD, pharmacology expert and founder of Brûmée.
"Manufacturers use thousands of fragrance ingredients in their formulations, yet there is no law requiring them to list all the components." If you have sensitive skin, especially around the delicate eye area, consider using a fragrance-free eye cream like Avène.
8. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is commonly used in hair straightening treatments, nail polishes, and other beauty products, but Dr. Sobel warns against its use, particularly in skincare. "It is sometimes added as a preservative to prevent bacteria growth, but prolonged exposure to high levels of formaldehyde has been linked to an increased risk of cancer," he explains.
9. Toluene
Toluene is a solvent found in products like nail polish and hair dye. "It’s a toxic petrochemical solvent that can damage the immune system and may even cause birth defects," says Michele Green, MD, a cosmetic dermatologist.
10. Phthalates
Used in cosmetics, primarily in fragrances, phthalates can also be found in skincare products. "They're known endocrine disruptors, which also cause hormonal and reproductive problems and birth defects," says Dr. Green.
11. Triclosan
Triclosan is a common ingredient many of us have encountered, especially in antibacterial soaps. "Triclosan should be avoided because it contributes to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and it also interferes with the endocrine system," explains Dr. Green.
12. Mineral Oil
Mineral oil, a frequent ingredient in makeup, SPF products, and cleansers, is a petroleum byproduct. "It can contain carcinogenic substances, and like formaldehyde, it is believed to increase the risk of cancer if used in large quantities," warns Dr. Sobel.
