Ingredients to Avoid in Cosmetics

Some cosmetic ingredients have been under the radar for either being damaging to us - or the environment. Here is a list of cosmetic ingredients you should steer away from.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and/or Sodium Laureth Sulfate

I'll admit that this ingredient will be absolutely fine for most people - however, if you have sensitive skin, it's best to try and stay away from this ingredient, especially if you're using it on the face.

Other than being harsh on the skin, most people shouldn't be concerned.

Fragrance

The only issue with this cosmetic 'ingredient' is that you don't know what the fragrance in the cosmetic is made up of. You may be allergic or sensitive to the ingredient.

So if you know you may have easily irritable skin or have many allergies, you may consider 'fragrance free' cosmetics.

Lead

Many coloured cosmetics such as lipsticks may contain lead. Although their levels may be below the threshold (7ppm), no one wants to be consuming lead.

Lead is a very dangerous ingredient, and even though it may be deemed safe by the FDA under certain amounts - lead can cause learning difficulties which no one wants.

Triclosan

This ingredient isn't necessarily damaging to us - however this antimicrobial can affect the aquatic environment by making microbes more resistant (stronger).

Marine wildlife also consume these ingredients which can affect the biosystem in the long-term.

Formaldehyde

This ingredient is a proven and well known carcinogen. It's used as a preservative in many cosmetic products, which is obviously not ideal.

It is allowed in cosmetics under 0.05% without any additional labels - however over this threshold, it must be labelled with "contains formaldehyde".