Your skin is your largest organ, and what you apply to it does in fact have an impact on your overall health. With the rise of non-toxic and clean beauty brands, like OhSo Bare, more people than ever have a better understanding and awareness of skincare ingredients. But, it’s important to also know what harmful ingredients might be lurking in your products with the lack of transparency from other highstreet brands. Many TikTok viral products you see on your For You Page and skincare products that you know and love often contain toxic chemicals and harmful ingredients that can cause irritation, disrupt hormones, and even pose long-term health risks. Here are some of the top toxic ingredients to avoid in your skincare routine so make sure you look out for them on the label during your next skincare stock up.
Parabens (Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Ethylparaben)
Parabens are synthetic preservatives used to extend the shelf life of skincare and cosmetic products. While they can prevent nasties like mold and bacteria growth, studies have linked parabens to hormone disruption, as they can mimic estrogen in the body. This has raised concerns about potential links to breast cancer and reproductive issues. The Environmental Working Group wrote an interesting article titled ‘What Are Parabens, And Why Don’t They Belong In Cosmetics’. In the article, they noted:
“Parabens can act like the hormone estrogen in the body and disrupt the normal function of hormone systems affecting male and female reproductive system functioning, reproductive development, fertility and birth outcomes. Parabens can also interfere with the production of hormones. The U.N. Environment Programme has identified parabens as a group, including propyl- and butylparaben, as endocrine-disrupting chemicals or potential endocrine-disrupting chemicals (U.N. Environment 2017). The Danish Centre on Endocrine Disruptors has also identified butyl- and isobutylparaben as endocrine disruptors (Danish Centre on Endocrine Disrupters 2018).”
Sulfates
Sulfates are commonly found in cleansers, shampoos, and body washes, where they are often added to help create a foamy lather. However, they can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and even long-term skin barrier damage. Sulfates can also be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen. If you’re unsure of what a carcinogen is, a carcinogen is defined as a substance, organism or agent capable of causing cancer.
Whilst everyone should make a conscious effort to avoid sulphates in their skincare, those with sensitive skin should remain extra vigilant when experimenting with new products. As studied in Pub Med, topical exposure to sulphates in skincare lotions and potions has been reported to induce a range of adverse clinical effects in sensitive individuals, ranging from dermatitis, urticaria, flushing, hypotension, abdominal pain and diarrhoea to even life-threatening anaphylactic and asthmatic reactions.
Phthalates
Phthalates are used to improve the texture and longevity of skincare products, particularly in fragrances. Unfortunately, they are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they interfere with hormone function and have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues. The problem? They’re often hidden under the term ‘fragrance’ or ‘parfum’ on ingredient lists which is something you should all be aware of. Also known as plasticizers, phthalates are also commonly found in food packaging and plastic - something very telling about this toxic ingredient.
There has also been studies that have shown exposure to phthalates can increase the risk of miscarriage and gestational diabetes in pregnant women, according to two recent Harvard studies.
Oxybenzone & Octinoxate
Commonly found in chemical sunscreens (don’t worry, OhSo is here for you bestie), these ingredients are known hormone disruptors and have been linked to allergies, hormone imbalance, and even environmental damage - particularly the destruction of coral reefs. Yep that’s right, even suncreams can be toxic. Instead, opt for non-toxic mineral-based suncreams with non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide instead - like OhSo Bare.
Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that can be found in some preservatives in skincare products. Many brands have phased out direct use of formaldehyde, but beware of ingredients like DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea, and Quaternium-15, which slowly release formaldehyde over time.
PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols)
PEGs are used as thickeners and softeners in skincare but can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane - both of which are carcinogenic. They can also make the skin more permeable, increasing exposure to other harmful chemicals in a product.
How to Choose Safer Skincare Products
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Read Labels Carefully: Get familiar with ingredient lists and avoid harmful substances.
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Look for Clean & Organic Certifications: Brands that are transparent about their ingredients and have organic or clean beauty certifications are generally safer choices.
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Opt for Fragrance-Free or Naturally Scented Products: Essential oils and plant extracts are a safer alternative to synthetic fragrances.
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Choose Mineral-Based Sunscreens: Non-nano zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are effective and safer options, like our OhSo Bare creams.
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Support Transparent Brands: Brands that disclose their full ingredient lists and avoid greenwashing are worth supporting.
Switching to non-toxic skincare is one of the best investments you can make for your health and well-being. By avoiding these harmful ingredients, you can protect your skin, reduce your exposure to unnecessary chemicals, and enjoy a cleaner beauty routine. Your skin deserves the best - choose OhSo Bare for the win.
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