Ingredients We Avoid (Clean Beauty Standard List)
Endocrine Disruption Concerns
Phthalates (DEP, DBP, DEHP)
— Used in fragrance to help scent last longer
— Associated in research with hormone activity concerns (endocrine disruption potential)
Parabens (methyl-, propyl-, butylparaben)
— Preservatives that prevent bacterial growth
— Studied for weak estrogen-like activity in some research contexts
BHA / BHT
— Preservatives used to extend shelf life
— Some studies show potential hormone and bioaccumulation concerns
Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)
— Chemical UV filter used in sunscreens
— Studied for potential hormone activity concerns and skin sensitivity
Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate)
— UV filter used for sun protection
— Some research shows possible endocrine activity concerns
Irritants / Skin Barrier Disruption
Synthetic Fragrance (Parfum)
— Used to make products smell pleasant
— One of the most common causes of skin irritation and allergic reactions
MIT / MCI (Preservatives)
— Used to prevent microbial growth in products
— Strong sensitizers known to trigger allergic skin reactions
Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
(DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15, etc.)
— Used to keep formulas shelf-stable
— Can slowly release formaldehyde, a known irritant and allergen
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
— Cleansing/foaming agent in some skincare and cleansers
— Can strip the skin’s natural barrier and cause dryness
Alcohol Denat / SD Alcohol
— Used for fast-drying texture and lightweight feel
— Can be drying and may weaken the skin barrier over time
PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”)
PFAS Compounds (PTFE, etc.)
— Used for smooth texture, waterproof or long-wear effects
— Extremely persistent in the environment and can accumulate over time
Contamination Concerns
1,4-Dioxane (contaminant)
— Not an ingredient, but a byproduct of some manufacturing processes
— Classified as a potential carcinogen in long-term exposure studies
Benzene (contaminant)
— Not added intentionally, but found in trace contamination in some aerosols
— Known human carcinogen at high exposure levels
Ethylene Oxide (manufacturing contaminant)
— Used in producing certain ingredients
— Classified as a carcinogen in occupational exposure settings
Talc (asbestos contamination concern)
— Mineral used for softness in powders
— Concern is potential contamination with asbestos
Microplastics / Environmental Concerns
Polyethylene (PE)
— Used for texture and smoothing effects
— Microplastic that does not break down easily in the environment
Polypropylene (PP)
— Used in some cosmetic textures
— Persistent plastic particle contributing to environmental pollution
Nylon-12 / Acrylates Copolymer
— Used for soft-focus, silky finish in makeup
— Synthetic polymers with environmental persistence concerns
Heavy Metal Contamination (Testing Focus)
Lead, Mercury, Arsenic, Cadmium
— Not intentionally added in modern cosmetics
— Can appear in trace amounts in pigments or raw materials
— Associated with toxicity concerns at high or long-term exposure levels