INCI DERIVATIVES:
methylparaben (E number E218), ethylparaben (E214), propylparaben (E216), butylparaben and isobutylparaben, isopropylparaben
USE:
Parabens are used as preservatives in cosmetics primarily for their anti-bacterial and anti-fungicidal properties.
HEALTH RISK:
Parabens are becoming increasingly controversial as they have been found in high concentrations in breast cancer tumours. Parabens have also displayed the ability to mimic estrogen (a hormone known to play a role in the development of breast cancer).
Although no direct link between parabens and cancers have yet been scientifically proven we choose to exclude these chemicals from our products as an act of caution.
INCI DERIVATIVES:
petroleum, paraffin, ethylene oxide, 1-4 – dioxane
USE:
Typically used as moisturising agents or lubricants, these petroleum based products can clog the pores and cause nerve damage, anaemia and kidney failure.
HEALTH RISK:
By inhibiting the skin’s ability to eliminate waste, the kidneys are placed under enormous pressure and often leads to degeneration.
Since petroleum and paraffin are typically derived from crude oil or coal, they may often contains other harmful substances.
INCI DERIVATIVES:
diazolidinyl urea, 3-diol diazolidinyl urea, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1, bronopol, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea
USE:
Antimicrobial preservative used in cosmetics for its ability to slow release formaldehyde.
HEALTH RISK:
Formaldehyde is classified as a human carcinogen by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, which may cause nose, throat and skin cancers.
Products containing urea have been banned in Europe after studies have proved urea to be carcinogenic, causes allergic reactions and contact dermatitis; headaches; irritates mucous membranes; damaging to eyes; linked to joint and chest pain.
INCI DERIVATIVES:
MEA/DEA/TEA
USE:
Used as foaming agents, synthetic stabilizers, and to adjust the pH of cosmetics.
HEALTH RISK:
May cause allergic reactions, eye irritation, and dryness of the hair and skin.
While no conclusive test have been conducted, there are studies to show the harmful effects become more pronounced when combined with ureas that typically occur together in cosmetics
INCI DERIVATIVES:
Sodium Lauryl Sulphate or Sodium Laureth Sulphate
USE:
Used as a foaming agent in body washes and soaps.
HEALTH RISK:
SLS or SLES have not been proven to be carcinogenic when either applied directly to skin or consumed, however can cause skin and eye irritation in people with sensitive skin.
INCI DERIVATIVES:
DBP, DEHP, fragrance
USE:
Synthetic fragrances.
HEALTH RISK:
The widely-used group of chemicals called phthalates (pronounced tha-lates) can interfere with hormones in the body, posing potential risks to the reproductive and thyroid systems.
INCI DERIVATIVES:
2-PHENOXYETHANOL, ETHANOL
USE:
Preservative often used in place of parabens.
HEALTH RISK:
Skin irritant & harmful classification by EU and restrictions on use in Japan.
INCI DERIVATIVES:
DBP, DEHP, fragrance
USE:
Synthetic fragrances.
HEALTH RISK:
The widely-used group of chemicals called phthalates (pronounced tha-lates) can interfere with hormones in the body, posing potential risks to the reproductive and thyroid systems.
INCI DERIVATIVES:
Triclosan
USE:
Anti-bacterial agent / preservative / acne prevention typically used in soaps.
HEALTH RISK:
Some studies suggest that Triclosan, as well as many other antibiotic agents, may increase bacterial resistance. This increased resistance decreases the effectiveness of many antibiotics and has helped lead to hard-to-kill bacteria such as MRSA. There are also studies that suggest repeated heavy exposure to Triclosan may alter hormone levels in some animals.
On a topical level it can cause skin irritation.
The European Union has banned the use of Triclosan in any product that comes into contact with food.