1
, phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemicals used in plastics. Used as endocrine disruptors and carcinogens especially in nail products, hair sprays and many other skin care products.
2. Toluene
Toluene is another chemical used in nail products that is powerful enough to thin paint. It is a petrochemical that is toxic to the liver and is known to cause birth defects.
3. Polyethene (PEG)
In makeup and hair color, thick, creamy, moisture-heavy textured skincare products it may be the next ingredient to avoid that helps product penetration better. It replaces the natural moisture factor of the skin. These are known carcinogens and respiratory irritants, which pose serious health concerns with prolonged exposure.
4. Carbon Black
Carbon black, although included in the FDA’s list of banned products, is still found in cosmetic products. The darkest black color in eye makeup comes from carbon black, or a variant thereof. This is a red flag ingredient to look for in eye makeup in particular that has been linked to cancer and organ toxicity.
5. Heavy Metals
Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, mercury, aluminum, zinc, chromium and antimony are found in a wide variety of personal care products, including lipstick, whitening toothpaste, eyeliner, antiperspirants and nail color. These are neurotoxins that have been linked to miscarriage, reduced fertility and delayed onset of puberty for women.
6. Talc
In 2019, the FDA advised consumers to avoid using certain cosmetic items because of testing positive for asbestos. Even asbestos-free talc should be avoided in the pelvic regions. Talc increases lung burden and has been linked to ovarian, endometrial and lung cancers.
7. Triclosan
A synthetic antibacterial agent that can disrupt thyroid function and cause bacterial resistance, commonly found in soaps, mouthwashes, shaving creams, deodorants, toothpastes, etc.
8. Ethanolamines
Ethanolamines such as DEA and TEA help bind water-soluble and oil-soluble ingredients together. The soaps found in facial cleansers are carcinogenic and have been proven to reduce brain growth.
With inputs from Sravya C Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist and Cosmetologist at Manipal Hospital, Bangalore.