Linked to: Breast cancer, neurotoxicity.

Details: Aluminum compounds like aluminum chlorohydrate are commonly used in antiperspirants. Some studies suggest a potential link between aluminum exposure and breast cancer, as aluminum can mimic estrogen, a hormone known to play a role in breast cancer development. Additionally, aluminum may accumulate in the brain, contributing to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24278530

Linked to: Hyperactivity in children, allergic reactions, potential carcinogenic effects.
Details: Synthetic dyes like Red 40 and Yellow 5 are suspected of contributing to behavioral issues in children, including hyperactivity. Some artificial sweeteners, like aspartame, have been controversially linked to cancer, neurological issues, and allergic reactions in certain individuals.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23785721/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17805418/

Linked to: Hormonal disruption, skin irritation.
Details: Avobenzone is a chemical sunscreen ingredient that can degrade when exposed to sunlight, potentially forming free radicals that can damage skin cells and lead to aging. Some studies also suggest that it may act as an endocrine disruptor, interfering with hormone balance.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22404639/

Linked to: Skin sensitization, allergic reactions, environmental toxicity.
Details: This synthetic preservative is commonly found in personal care products and cleaning supplies. It is known to cause contact allergies and is also toxic to aquatic life, making it a concern for both human health and the environment.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31688856/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28613910/

Linked to: Endocrine disruption, carcinogenicity, reproductive toxicity.
Details: Butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are synthetic antioxidants used to extend shelf life. They have been classified as possible human carcinogens by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and are suspected to interfere with hormonal function, potentially impacting reproductive health.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25343036/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8481095/

Linked to: Allergic reactions, skin irritation.

Details: Commercial citric acid is often derived from Aspergillus niger mold rather than citrus fruits. This mold-derived citric acid can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, particularly those with mold allergies.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24031277/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9713770/

Linked to: Skin Irritation, Allergic Reactions, Environmental Concerns

Details: Coco betaine, or cocamidopropyl betaine, is a milder surfactant compared to harsher alternatives but can still cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. There are also concerns about its environmental impact, particularly regarding aquatic toxicity. It’s important to consider individual sensitivities and environmental effects when evaluating products containing this ingredient.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20384834/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11337123/

https://echa.europa.eu/substance-information/-/substanceinfo/100.123.455

Linked to: Skin Irritation, Allergic Reactions, Nitrosamine Formation (Carcinogenic), Environmental Concerns

Details: Cocamidopropyl hydroxysultaine is a surfactant and foam booster commonly found in personal care products. While it is generally considered mild, it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Additionally, it has the potential to form nitrosamines, which are known carcinogens. There are also concerns regarding its biodegradability and toxicity to aquatic environments.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26652994/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30585865/

Linked to: Environmental toxicity, skin irritation.
Details: EDTA is a chelating agent used to bind and remove metals in products. It is not easily biodegradable, leading to environmental concerns. It can also cause skin irritation and enhance the penetration of other harmful ingredients into the skin.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21131178/

Linked to: Cancer, skin irritation, respiratory issues.
Details: Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen used as a preservative in some cosmetics and personal care products. It can cause skin sensitivity, irritation, and breathing problems, especially in individuals with asthma.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17366697/

Linked to: Contamination with Harmful Antibacterial Agents, Hormone Disruption, Allergic Reactions

Details: The antibacterial properties of grapefruit seed extract often result from contamination with harmful antibacterial agents like benzalkonium chloride and benzethonium chloride. These contaminants can contribute to hormone disruption and allergic reactions. It’s essential to be cautious when evaluating products containing this ingredient.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9170033/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10399191/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22147592/

Linked to: Allergic reactions, neurotoxicity, skin sensitization.
Details: This preservative is highly allergenic and can cause severe contact dermatitis. There is also some evidence to suggest it may be neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21762209/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27005828/

Linked to: Hormonal disruption, coral reef damage, skin irritation.
Details: Both of these chemical sunscreen ingredients are known endocrine disruptors that can interfere with hormone function. Additionally, they are harmful to marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs, leading to bans in some regions.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18652256/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26555911/

Linked to: Hormonal disruption, breast cancer, reproductive toxicity.
Details: Parabens are preservatives that mimic estrogen in the body, potentially increasing the risk of breast cancer and other hormone-related issues. They have also been linked to reproductive harm and developmental issues.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18484575/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20045478/

Linked to: Hormonal disruption, reproductive toxicity, developmental issues.
Details: Phthalates are plasticizers used to increase the flexibility of plastics and are also found in fragrances. They are known endocrine disruptors that can affect reproductive health and have been linked to developmental problems in children.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17166844/

Linked to: Contamination with carcinogens, skin irritation.
Details: PEGs are used as thickeners, solvents, and moisture carriers in cosmetics. They can be contaminated with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, both of which are carcinogens. PEGs also enhance the absorption of other harmful ingredients through the skin.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19751784/

Linked to: Formaldehyde Release, Skin Irritation, Allergic Reactions, Carcinogenic Concerns

Details: Quaternium-15 is a preservative used in cosmetics and personal care products that releases formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. It can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, particularly in individuals with formaldehyde sensitivity. Due to its potential to release formaldehyde, there are concerns about long-term exposure leading to an increased risk of cancer.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19958454/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1125101/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17366697/

Linked to: Skin sensitivity, birth defects, potential carcinogenicity.
Details: These forms of Vitamin A are used in anti-aging products. However, they can cause skin irritation, increase sensitivity to sunlight, and may be linked to birth defects if used during pregnancy. Some studies suggest high doses may also have carcinogenic effects.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6367777/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17433242/

Linked to: Skin irritation, potential contamination with carcinogens.
Details: SLS and SLES are foaming agents that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. SLES is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen, during the manufacturing process.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20463771/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8553721/

Linked to: Hormonal disruption, antibiotic resistance, environmental toxicity.
Details: These antibacterial agents have been linked to hormone disruption, contributing to issues like thyroid dysfunction. They also contribute to antibiotic resistance and are toxic to aquatic life, leading to bans in some countries.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21347434/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18705688/

Linked to: Unknown health risks, allergic reactions.
Details: “Natural flavors” can encompass a wide range of ingredients, some of which may include undisclosed chemicals or allergens. The lack of transparency makes it difficult to assess their safety, and some natural flavors have been associated with allergic reactions and other health concerns.
Note: If we carry a product with natural flavors, we've ensured transparency by confirming with the company that the ingredients used in those flavors meet our standards.

Source: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21211044/

Linked to: Nutrient dilution, digestive problems, allergic reactions, metabolic issues, toxicity.
Details: Unnecessary fillers can lower nutritional content, cause bloating and inflammation, trigger allergic reactions, contribute to insulin resistance and obesity, and may pose carcinogenic and chronic health risks.

Sources: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16099019/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11242442/

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25326413/

Feel free to reach out to us about any specific ingredients if you want to confirm whether they’re on our exclusion list.