Common toxic chemicals and contaminants in skincare
Have you ever read the ingredients listed on your skincare or cosmetics and wondered what you’re actually putting on your skin?
At CowSki, we believe there should be natural alternatives, especially as cosmetics can sometimes contain toxic chemicals and contaminants that pose health risks over time. These substances might be used deliberately for their effects (like preservatives) or be present as impurities from manufacturing processes.
In the UK, cosmetics are regulated to ensure consumer safety, but some products may still contain potentially harmful chemicals or contaminants.
These substances, often used as preservatives, fragrances or colourants, can pose health risks, especially with prolonged exposure. Some of these may be unrecognisable (not to mention unpronounceable), so we’ve put together a helpful list on some common chemicals that are found beauty products and how they may affect your health.
Parabens
These are a group of synthetic chemicals commonly used as preservatives in a wide range of cosmetic products, including skin creams, lotions and moisturisers. Their main role is to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, fungi and mould in products, thereby extending shelf life.
However, the use of parabens in skin creams has raised several concerns due to their potential health risks. Parabens can be absorbed through the skin, and repeated use of paraben-containing skin creams may lead to accumulation in the body. While parabens are generally metabolised and excreted, concerns exist about long-term exposure and the cumulative effects of these chemicals.
Health risks: Parabens (e.g., methylparaben, ethylparaben, butylparaben) have been linked to hormone disruption as they can mimic oestrogen in the body. Some studies suggest potential links to breast cancer and reproductive issues.
Phthalates
In skincare products, phthalates are often included as solvents, carriers for fragrances, or to help formulations spread evenly.
The use of phthalates in skincare has raised significant concerns due to their potential health risks, particularly because they are classified as endocrine disruptors.
Health risks: Phthalates like dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and diethyl phthalate (DEP) are known endocrine disruptors, linked to reproductive issues, developmental problems, and a potential increased risk of cancer.
Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents
Whilst formaldehyde itself is banned in cosmetics in the UK, formaldehyde-releasing agents are still permitted in small, controlled concentrations and can be found in various personal care products, including some skincare, haircare and nail care formulations.
These substances are used as preservatives to prevent bacterial growth, ensuring products have a longer shelf life. However, concerns about formaldehyde's potential health risks have led to increased scrutiny and regulation.
Health risks: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. It can also cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and respiratory problems. Some chemicals (e.g., quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin) release formaldehyde over time.
Chemicals in cosmetics
Heavy metals (Lead, Arsenic, Mercury, Cadmium)
Although current regulations ban antimony, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and mercury in cosmetic products, trace amounts of these heavy metals are permitted if they are technically unavoidable under good manufacturing practices and pose no risk to the user's health
Health risks:
- Lead: Linked to neurotoxicity, developmental delays, and reproductive harm.
- Mercury: Found in skin-lightening creams, it can cause kidney damage, neurological problems, and is particularly harmful to pregnant women and fetuses.
- Cadmium and Arsenic: Carcinogenic, linked to organ damage and other health problems when used over time.
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
SLS works by transforming liquids into foam and is commonly found in products like toothpaste, body wash, soaps, and detergents. It's also used in industrial cleaners, bath salts, and even makeup. Essentially, the foamy lather your shampoo creates is often due to the presence of SLS.
Health risks: Both SLS and SLES can cause skin irritation, eye irritation, and dryness, particularly for those with sensitive skin. SLES may also be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen.
Toluene
Toluene is a toxic chemical that can be found in some cosmetics, such as nail products and hair dyes as a solvent.
Health risks: Toluene can cause dizziness, headaches, and, with long-term exposure, damage to the nervous system. It is particularly harmful to pregnant women and may affect foetal development.
Can skin care products cause health problems?
Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs)
Widely used as thickeners and softeners, PEGs can be found in lotions, balms, shaving cream, shampoo, conditioner, soap and toothpaste.
Health risks: PEGs can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both of which are potential carcinogens. They may also cause skin irritation, especially on damaged skin.
Triclosan
Found in antibacterial soaps, toothpastes and deodorants.
In 2014, UK water quality assessments revealed a concerning situation: over 450 water bodies contained triclosan—an antimicrobial agent classified as a "specific pollutant" under the Water Framework Directive—at concentrations exceeding recommended thresholds.
Health risks: Triclosan is a potential endocrine disruptor and has been linked to antibiotic resistance. It can also cause skin irritation and environmental harm when washed into waterways.
Fragrance (Parfum)
Common in many beauty and skincare products, exposure to fragrance compounds can cause allergic reactions, skin inflammation, breathing difficulties and may disrupt reproductive health.
Health risks: "Fragrance" is often a mix of undisclosed chemicals, which can include allergens, phthalates and potential endocrine disruptors. These chemicals can cause allergic reactions, hormonal imbalances, and respiratory issues.
BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
These are synthetic antioxidants used as preservatives in lipsticks, moisturisers, and other cosmetics.
Health risks: Both BHA and BHT are suspected endocrine disruptors and are linked to potential cancer risks. They may also cause skin irritation and have negative effects on the liver and kidneys.
Coal Tar Dyes (P-Phenylenediamine)
Common in hair dyes (darker hair dyes tend to contain more phenylenediamine than lighter colours) and some colour cosmetics, Coal tar dyes are a group of artificial ingredients consisting of colours or dyes.
Health risks: Coal tar dyes have been linked to cancer and may cause allergic reactions or skin sensitivity, especially in individuals with pre-existing skin conditions.
Siloxanes (Cyclomethicone and Cyclotetrasiloxane)
Found in skincare and haircare products to smooth and soften, Siloxanes are members of the broad family of silicone materials.
Risks: Some siloxanes, particularly cyclotetrasiloxane (D4) and cyclopentasiloxane (D5), are suspected endocrine disruptors and may interfere with fertility. They also persist in the environment and contribute to environmental pollution.
Regulation in the UK
The UK's Cosmetic Products Enforcement Regulations 2013 mirrors the EU standards, meaning that the following rules apply:
- Prohibited substances: Certain chemicals (like formaldehyde and certain phthalates) are outright banned or restricted.
- Labelling requirements: Companies must disclose ingredients, but some potentially harmful substances may be hidden under general terms like "fragrance" or "parfum."
How to avoid toxic chemicals in cosmetics
Check labels
Look for specific ingredients and avoid products with known toxic chemicals.
Use fragrance-free products
Since fragrances can hide harmful chemicals, choose products labeled as "fragrance-free" or use those scented with essential oils.
Seek certifications
Look for products certified by organisations like COSMOS Organic, EcoCert, or the Soil Association, which often have stricter safety standards.
Research products
Use apps or websites like Think Dirty or EWG’s Skin Deep Database to check the safety of cosmetic ingredients.