Fragrance” indicates the presence more than 5,000 known chemical substances – including phthalates. Only 1,500 have been tested for safety. Of those, 850+ are known to be toxic or carcinogenic. Public disclosure of chemicals used in fragrance is protected by the Federal “Trade Secrets” act and is the best place to hide additional objectionable chemicals.

Propylene Glycol & Butylene Glycol

This solvent – used as anti-freeze – penetrates skin & can weaken its protein and cellular structure. Known to cause skin irritation, particularly on mucous membranes; are immune toxins; and produce positive mutation in mammals (carcinogen).

Preservatives that often release formaldehyde may cause joint pain, skin reactions, allergies, depression, headaches, chest pains, ear infections, dizziness, chronic fatigue, and loss of sleep.

Formaldehyde

This biocide, denaturant & preservative is a known carcinogen that can trigger allergic, irritant and contact dermatitis, headaches and chronic fatigue. Vapor is extremely irritating to the eyes, nose and throat (mucous membranes).objectionable chemicals.

1,4-Dioxane 

Carcinogenic contaminant in many products, nearly 50% of cosmetics containing ethoxylated surfactants were found to have 1,4 dioxane. Banned in Canada & European Union (EU.)

Lead Acetate

Color additive, known human reproductive/development toxin, probable human carcinogen. Prohibited in the EU.

Polyquaternium 16

Known to be toxic to aquatic organisms & cause long-term adverse effects in the aquatic environment.

Sulfate Surfactants (SLS, SLES, ALS, ALES)

Often contaminated with carcinogenic nitrosamines, sulfates can pose serious health threats. Used as floor cleaners and engine degreasers – and in most personal-care products that foam. SLS is such a caustic cleanser it actually corrodes the hair follicle and impairs the ability to grow hair. Exposure can lead to eye damage, depression, labored breathing and severe skin irritation (used to damage skin for medical insult testing).

Quaternium 6, 7, 15, 31, & 60

Toxic formaldehyde releasers that cause skin rashes and allergic reactions.

Phthalates

Synthetic chemical used to volatize fragrance. Reproductive & endocrine system disruptor, skin sensitizer, immune & kidney toxicant. US EPA states phthalates produce dramatic changes in male reproductive characteristics, including hypospadias & other indications of demasculinization when exposed in utero. Prohibited for use in cosmetics in the EU since September 2004.

Carcinogen (carcinogenic)

Methylisothiazolinone (MIT. MI)

A commonly used preservative in skin care and hair care products, Methylisothiazolinone (also known as MIT) is also frequently used in metal working, sanitizing, mining and manufacturing. It’s a known cytotoxin, and can cause damage to the body and to the environment. Banned in the EU, it’s known to trigger contact dermatitis, eczema and other skin conditions.

***FD&C Color

From coal tar & other chemicals, it can cause skin sensitivity & irritation. Studies show it to be carcinogenic & capable of triggering behavioral problems in children. Some artificial color may be derived from animals.

Dimethylamine

Immune system, neuro, cardiovascular, blood, respiratory & liver toxicant. Found in hair products & body gels. Prohibited for use in cosmetics in the EU.

Diethanolamine (DEA) & Monoethanolamine (MEA)

Foaming agent causes allergic reactions, eye irritation, dryness. Toxic when absorbed over a period of time.

Glutens

By-product of wheat processing – unsafe for celiac sufferers – even hydrolyzed wheat protein contains large amounts of gluten and is a contact allergen.

Parabens (Methyl, Propyl, Butyl and Ethyl Paraben): 

Studies have shown these widely preservatives to be carcinogenic and associated with breast cancer. They are also known to be weakly estrogenic and absorbed by through skin as well as cause allergic reactions & topical dermatitis.

Triethanolamine (TEA) Lauryl Sulfate & Triethanolamine (TEA) Laureth Sulfate

Anionic surfactants used as pH adjusters, emulsifiers and preservatives. Form carcinogenic nitrosamine compounds on the skin & in the body after absorption when mixed with nitrosamines and nitrosating agents

**Soy

More than 90% of soy produced in the U.S. is genetically modified and the crops are sprayed with herbicides which may be associated with adverse effects on health.