Many everyday hygiene products contain ingredients that may pose health risks. Here are the top 10 ingredients you should be aware of and potentially avoid:
1. Parabens
Parabens are preservatives used in many cosmetic products to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold. They can be found in makeup, moisturizers, shaving products, and hair care products.
Why avoid: Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially disrupting hormone function. Some studies have linked them to breast cancer and reproductive issues.
Look for on labels: Methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben
2. Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals used to make plastics more flexible. In personal care products, they're often found in fragrances and nail polishes.
Why avoid: Phthalates are endocrine disruptors that may affect reproductive development, especially in males. They've been linked to reduced sperm count and other reproductive issues.
Look for on labels: DBP (dibutyl phthalate), DEHP (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate), DEP (diethyl phthalate), or simply "fragrance" which can contain undisclosed phthalates
3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
These surfactants create the foaming action in many shampoos, body washes, and toothpastes.
Why avoid: SLS and SLES can be irritating to skin and eyes. SLES can also be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen.
4. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
These preservatives are used in many cosmetic products to prevent bacterial growth.
Why avoid: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Look for on labels: DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, quaternium-15, bronopol, formaldehyde
5. Triclosan
An antibacterial agent found in soaps, deodorants, and toothpastes.
Why avoid: Triclosan may contribute to antibiotic resistance and has been shown to disrupt hormone function in animals.
6. Synthetic Fragrances
Found in almost all scented products, from perfumes to lotions to cleaning products.
Why avoid: The term "fragrance" can hide dozens of chemicals that companies aren't required to disclose. Many of these chemicals can trigger allergies, migraines, and asthma attacks.
Look for on labels: "Fragrance," "parfum," or "aroma"
7. Toluene
A solvent used in nail polishes and hair dyes.
Why avoid: Toluene can affect the central nervous system and cause reproductive harm. It's particularly concerning for pregnant women.
Look for on labels: Toluene, toluol, methylbenzene, phenylmethane
8. Oxybenzone
A common ingredient in chemical sunscreens.
Why avoid: Oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and has been detected in breast milk, urine, and blood. It's a potential hormone disruptor and may cause allergic reactions.
9. Talc
A mineral used in baby powders, face powders, and other cosmetics.
Why avoid: Talc can sometimes be contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen. Even asbestos-free talc has been linked to ovarian cancer when used in the genital area.
10. Petrolatum
A petroleum-based ingredient used in lip balms, lotions, and hair care products.
Why avoid: Unless it's fully refined, petrolatum can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are linked to cancer.
Look for on labels: Petrolatum, petroleum jelly, mineral oil
Healthier Alternatives
Look for products that use natural preservatives like:
- Vitamin E (tocopherol)
- Grapefruit seed extract
- Rosemary extract
- Neem oil
Using the Sanily app can help you quickly identify these harmful ingredients in your products and find safer alternatives.
Take Action
Start checking your bathroom cabinet today. You might be surprised by what you find in your everyday products.
Download Sanily to scan your products and make healthier choices.
