Propylene Glycol:

Propylene Glycol is a common ingredient in many beauty products and is used as a delivery vehicle and solvent. However, in industry this chemical is often used as anti-freeze, airplane de-icer, and brake fluid. Vast quantities need to be ingested to cause severe toxicity, but prolonged exposure to the chemical can cause harm.

Parabens:

Parabens are pervasive in personal care products and are commonly used as preservatives. In various scientific studies parabens have been considered endocrine and hormone disruptors. Their ability to mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors on cells has proved worrisome and some scientists have even drawn a parallel between paraben usage and certain types of cancer,

Phthalates:

Phthalates are industrial chemicals used in plastics to increase their flexibility. They are often used in cosmetics such as hairsprays, deodorants, nail polishes, perfumes and lotions to add texture and shine to products. However, their pervasive usage is proving to be unhealthy. Scientists in the US and Canada are cautioning their use as they have demonstrated damaging effects to the liver, kidneys and lungs
when they are absorbed through the skin or inhaled.

Petrochemicals:

This very cost-effective ingredients is often used in lip balms and body lotions to hydrate and prevent chapping. However, it can interfere with the body’s natural moisturizing system and can cause skin irritation and clogged pores. They are also considered to be an environmental polluter.

Silicones:

Silicones are used widely in lotions and sunscreens for their ability to lend a silky texture to the formulas. However, they often lay on top of the skin preventing it from “breathing.” Silicones are not biodegradable and therefore are not environmentally friendly.

Sulfates:

These synthetic substances used in shampoos and body washes for their foaming agents are considered dangerous, as they are known to cause eye irritation, skin rashes, and even contribute to hair loss.

Synthetic Dyes:

Synthetic dyes are used to make products appear more beautiful or marketable. However, when ingested or applied to the skin, synthetic dyes can cause irritation and even be carcinogens.

Synthetic Fragrances:

Most cosmetics used a combination of hundreds of ingredients to cultivate their fragrances and there is no way to identify what the chemicals are. Synthetic fragrances have been known to cause skin irritations, headaches, dizziness and other ailments.