The Hidden Dangers in Everyday Beauty Products: bad for You and the Planet

From shampoos and moisturizers to cosmetics and sunscreens, beauty and personal care products are part of our daily lives. However, many of these products contain harmful ingredients that pose risks to human health and the environment. This article explores some of the most concerning ingredients, backed by published medical research and environmental studies.

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch

Parabens and Formaldehyde Releasers

You’ve most probably already heard about these - Parabens, (e.g., methylparaben, propylparaben) commonly found in moisturizers like Cerave and Cetaphil, are preservatives used in cosmetics to prevent microbial growth, but they have been linked to endocrine disruption and reproductive toxicity (PMC6477564). Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (e.g., DMDM hydantoin) can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.

Safe Alternatives: Plant-based preservatives such as radish root ferment, rosemary extract, and lactobacillus ferment. 🔹 Brands Using Safe Alternatives: LEELO Skin & Hair , Herbivore Botanicals

Phthalates in Fragrances

Phthalates, commonly found in synthetic fragrances, act as endocrine disruptors and have been linked to reproductive and developmental issues (PMC6477564). Of course, the FDA does not require a company to tell “trade secrets.” (FDA)

Safe Alternatives: Essential oils, plant-based extracts, and natural isolates from botanicals. 🔹 Brands Using Safe Alternatives: Skylar, Henry Rose, Vitruvi

BHA and BHT in Moisturizers and Lip Products

These synthetic antioxidants, used as preservatives, have been linked to endocrine disruption and potential carcinogenic effects (Frontiers in Public Health).

Safe Alternatives: Vitamin E (tocopherol), green tea extract. 🔹 Brands Using Safe Alternatives: LEELO Skin & Hair, Ilia Beauty

Heavy Metals in Color Cosmetics

Lipsticks and eyeliners may contain lead, cadmium, and arsenic, which can accumulate in the body over time, leading to neurotoxicity and organ damage (EWG). If you don’t know already, heavy metals in small quantities over a long period of time is not so great for us.

Safe Alternatives: Naturally pigmented minerals like iron oxides, fruit and vegetable-based pigments. 🔹 Brands Using Safe Alternatives: LEELO Skin & Hair, Axiology, Ere Perez

Oxybenzone in Sunscreens

Oxybenzone, a chemical UV filter, is linked to endocrine disruption and skin irritation. Studies also suggest it may harm marine ecosystems (EWG).

Safe Alternatives: Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide (non-nano formulations). 🔹 Brands Using Safe Alternatives: Badger, Babo Botanicals, Thinksport

Photo by Frans van Heerden

Palm Oil and Deforestation

Palm oil is a common ingredient in soaps, lotions, and makeup, but its production contributes to deforestation, biodiversity loss, and greenhouse gas emissions. Studies link palm oil plantations to habitat destruction, particularly for endangered species like orangutans (WWF).

✅ Sustainable Alternative: Responsibly sourced palm oil (RSPO certified), coconut oil, shea butter, mango butter. 🔹 Brands Using Sustainable Alternatives: Dr. Bronner’s, Ethique, Meow Meow Tweet

Microplastics in Scrubs and Toothpaste

Microbeads, once common in exfoliating products, contribute to plastic pollution in oceans. These tiny plastic particles accumulate in marine life, leading to ecosystem damage and potential health risks for humans who consume seafood (Marine Pollution Bulletin).

✅ Sustainable Alternative: Jojoba beads, bamboo powder, walnut shell powder. 🔹 Brands Using Sustainable Alternatives: Acure, Tata Harper, BYBI Beauty

Silicones and Bioaccumulation

Silicones (e.g., dimethicone) used in hair and skin care products do not easily break down, leading to environmental persistence. Some forms can accumulate in aquatic ecosystems, impacting water quality and wildlife (Environmental Science & Technology).

✅ Sustainable Alternative: Aloe vera, coconut oil, shea butter. 🔹 Brands Using Sustainable Alternatives: Rahua, Innersense, True Botanicals

Chemical Sunscreens and Coral Bleaching

Oxybenzone and octinoxate, found in chemical sunscreens, have been shown to contribute to coral bleaching and disrupt marine life. Due to these concerns, Hawaii and other regions have banned certain chemical sunscreen ingredients (Nature Scientific Reports).

✅ Sustainable Alternative: Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (reef-safe formulas). 🔹 Brands Using Sustainable Alternatives: Raw Elements, Suntegrity, Kokua Sun Care