Vegetable GlycerinWe're Making Eco Easy
What's going down our drains?
Many traditional beauty ingredients are derived from petrochemicals and can be harmful not only to our bodies, but also to our planet. Some of these 'forever chemicals' can also bioaccumulate in our water systems, eventually making their way back into our bodies. It's a scary truth - human health and environmental health are inextricably linked. With this knowledge, we have been incredibly selective about what goes into our plant-based formulas, reviewing every ingredient in detail and trying 100s of formulations to get them right. Everist products are vegan, cruelty-free, and free-from parabens, sulfates, silicones, dyes and synthetic fragrances, among others. Find out more info below.
Click the + to get all the info on our clean ingredients, as well as the stuff we'll never use.
EWG (Environmental Working Group) Skin Deep Score: 1-2 high safety, 3-6 moderate safety, 7-10 low safety.
Vegetable Glycerin
Latin name.
Glycerin
What is it?
Glycerin is a sugar alcohol derived from plant oils creating an odorless, sweet-tasting, syrup-like liquid.
Why's it good?
Glycerin is an effective moisturizer and humectant to reduce frizz and strengthen hair. It hydrates both your hair and scalp to prevent split ends and dandruff, as well as promote hair growth.
How do we use it?
It's at the top of our list (replacing water), because it works. Why pay for water you already have in your shower, when there are other great natural ingredients your hair needs.
EWG Score.
1
Aloe Vera
Latin name.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
What is it?
Aloe vera is a plant that has thick leaves with a gel-like substance inside of them.
Why's it good?
Aloe vera is packed with vitamin A, C and E to condition hair and soothe the scalp. It cleanses the hair shaft by effectively stripping off oil and residue, while preserving the integrity of your hair so it's healthier, shinier and softer.
How do we use it?
We love aloe vera for its trusted history and healing properties, with many hair and skin benefits. So we packed in as much as possible without making our formulas sticky. Let those strands soak it up.
EWG Score.
1
Coconut-Derived Cleanser
Latin name.
Sodium Cocoyl Isothionate
What is it?
A gentle coconut-derived cleanser commonly known as 'baby foam'. A highly-effective surfactant comprised of Isethionic Acid and a fatty acid from coconut oil.
Why's it good?
Gently cleanses the hair follicles and the scalp without stripping the natural sebum oil barrier. Creates a rich, velvety lather that lifts and removes dirt, while leaving hair and skin hydrated, soft and silky smooth.
How do we use it?
Our bodies want to stay in balance, so why do we strip our hair with harsh sulfate-based cleansers, only to work so hard to add hydration back later? We're all for gentle cleansers that do the hard work to remove excess dirt and oil, but don't strip your microbiome leaving your scalp hydrated and your hair silky.
EWG Score.
1
Rapeseed Oil
Latin name.
Brassica Campestris Seed Oil
What is it?
Also known as canola oil, rapeseed oil is made by pressing the seeds left after these bright yellow flowers bloom in the spring.
Why's it good?
Rich in essential vitamins and fatty acids to restore hydration and soften hair. With an excellent ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fats, rapeseed oil is considered to possess anti-inflammatory effects to help soothe an irritated scalp and add a healthy sheen to dull locks.
EWG Score.
1
Peppermint Oil
Latin name.
Mentha Piperia Oil
What is it?
An essential oil from an aromatic herb in the mint family. A hybrid of spearmint and water mint.
Why's it good?
Improves scalp health and circulation, helping to eliminate dandruff and stimulate hair growth.
EWG Score.
4
Rosemary Oil
Latin name.
Rosmarinus Officinalis Leaf Oil
What is it?
An essential oil coming from the leaves of the rosemary herb.
Why's it good?
Nourishes dry hair follicles, improving both hair thickness and growth. It's a potent antioxidant as well as an antimicrobial agent.
EWG Score.
1
Bergamot Oil
Latin name.
Citrus Bergamia Fruit Oil
What is it?
A fragrant citrus fruit the size of an orange, with a yellow or green color similar to a lime.
Why's it good?
Loaded with vitamin C and fatty acids, a natural antimicrobial.
EWG Score.
2
Coconut Oil
Latin name.
Cocos Nucifera Oil
What is it?
A plant-derived fatty acid oil extracted from the rich white lining of coconuts.
Why's it good?
A multi-benefit powerhouse that's been used for centuries. Rich in fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants to restore hair’s protein, smooth frizz and help retain moisture and condition hair.
EWG Score.
1
Shea Butter
Latin name.
Butyrospermum Parkii Butter
What is it?
Shea Butter is the creamy fat extracted from the nut of the African butyrospermum parkii tree.
Why's it good?
Rich in essential vitamins and fatty acids to deep condition, strengthen and soften locks.
EWG Score.
1
Amla Oil
Latin name.
Emblica Officinalis Fruit Extract
What is it?
Alma oil come from the nutrient-rich fruit of the Indian gooseberry tree.
Why's it good?
Alma oil's phyto-nutrients, vitamins and minerals help to increase scalp circulation and stimulate healthy hair growth. Alma oil's high vitamin C content offers anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that help soothe a dry, itchy scalp, while its conditioning properties add shine.
EWG Score.
1
Konjac
What is it?
A Konjac sponge is made from natural konjac root - a porous vegetable that grows in Asia. It's hard at first, but quickly softens and swells when hydrated with water into a gel-like cushy pillow.
Why's it good?
Konjac sponges are a very gentle way to exfoliate dead or dry skin (so gentle in fact, they were first created to cleanse baby's skin). The konjac plant is naturally alkaline, which gives it its soap-like cleansing ability and leaves skin perfectly balanced. They are also 100% biodegradable and home compostable, so a big win for our planet over plastic loofahs that last in our landfills for generations.
How do we use it?
When paired with our Waterless Body Wash Concentrate it creates super sudsy in-shower experience and helps make a little product go a long way.
EWG Score.
1
Betaine
Latin name.
Polyglyceryl-3 Betainate Acetate
What is it?
Betaine is a natural substance with a high cationic charge that is plant-derived from sugar beet. Given it also naturally occurs within the body, it's a non-irrigating and safe ingredient to improve the condition of skin.
Why's it good?
Betaine is a humectant that helps increase hydration and protect the skin's natural barrier, leaving skin feeling soothed and silky smooth. Its molecular structure bonds with hydrogen to help maintain moisture and prevent or reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Betaine also has a calming effect on the skin that reduces sensitivity and protects skin from further damage. It's readily biodegradable and palm-free.
How do we use it?
It's near the top of our body wash list to work alongside our cleanser to not only clean, but condition the skin the more you work it in - leaving a dewy, plumped feeling from well hydrated skin.
EWG Score.
1
Vitamin E
Latin name.
Tocopherol
What is it?
A form of Vitamin E derived from vegetable oils.
Why's it good?
Vitamin E is an antioxidant superhero, leaving hair strong, shiny and elastic. It supports a healthy scalp by improving scalp circulation and balancing oil production, while preventing hair loss and adding shine.
EWG Score.
1
Jojoba Esters
What is it?
Jojoba esters come from the jojoba plant and are often referred to as an oil because of how similar they are to sebum oil found in human skin.
Why's it good?
A highly effective moisturizer - jojoba oil is remarkably similar to the natural oils produced by human skin. Jojoba creates a great slip for detangling, reduces frizz, and creates noticeably smoother, softer hair.
EWG Score.
1
Sesame Seed Oil
Latin name.
Sesamum Indicum Seed Oil
What is it?
Sesame oil or gingelly oil is a vegetable oil derived from sesame seeds. The oil is then extracted from these seeds by pressing or toasting techniques.
Why's it good?
Sesame oil is an emollient, meaning it can help to soften skin and make hair strands look smoother. It's rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids that help to soothe and heal the scalp and roots to aid in hair growth.
EWG Score.
1
Sodium N-Lauroyl-L-Glutamate
What is it?
A mild non-irritating anionic surfactant from the natural amino acid family.
Why's it good?
A natural cleanser that removed dirt and excess oil, while leaving hair with a smooth silky feeling.
EWG Score.
1
Propanediol
What is it?
Propanediol is a plant-based, ECOCERT-approved glycol solubilizer and emollient derived from corn.
Why's it good?
This 100% natural ingredient is used to improve moisture blending activity which results in silky smooth hair.
EWG Score.
2
Lysolecithin
What is it?
A hydrolytic substance formed by the enzymatic hydrolysis of a lecithin (a natural fatty acid).
Why's it good?
It is used as an emulsifier to help blend light-weight active ingredients that are smoothing, non-greasy and hydrating.
EWG Score.
1
Xanthan Gum
What is it?
A natural thickener produced from sugar and a microorganism called xanthomonas campestris.
Why's it good?
A water-soluble thickener that functions by binding water when combined to create creamy products.
EWG Score.
1
Sclerotium Gum
What is it?
A 100% natural compound produced by a microorganism called Sclerotium rolfsli.
Why's it good?
Helps bring density and texture to our formulas, making them easier to use.
EWG Score.
1
Pullulan
What is it?
Pullulan is a naturally occurring substance derived from the fungus Aureobasidium pullulans.
Why's it good?
Used as a thickener to get a silicone-like feel.
EWG Score.
1
Coco-Caprylate
What is it?
A wax ester made from coconut fatty alcohol and a vegetable fatty acid.
Why's it good?
A true vegetable replacement for silicone that helps with easy detangling and provides a visible silkiness and shine. Unlike silicone, it doesn't build up on hair, leaving a healthy, light-weight feel.
EWG Score.
1
Clary Sage Oil
Latin name.
Salvia Sclarea Oil
What is it?
Clary sage oil is extracted from the leaves and buds of this flowering herb.
Why's it good?
Clary sage is known to stimulate the growth of healthier, stronger strands while eliminating dandruff and preventing the production of excessive natural oils and sebum on the scalp.
EWG Score.
1
Orange Oil
Latin name.
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil
What is it?
A refreshing essential oil extracted from dry orange peels.
Why's it good?
Orange oil adds shine and bounce to your mane. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, this oil helps cleanse the scalp and acts as a natural conditioner.
EWG Score.
5
Citric Acid
What is it?
A 100% natural ingredient found in citrus fruits, commonly lemon.
Why's it good?
Citric acid is often used as a product stabilizer and pH regulator. It also improved the scalp condition by getting rid of dandruff and increasing blood flow, which aids in healthy hair growth.
EWG Score.
2
Sodium Carboxymethyl Starch
What is it?
A natural thickener derived from starch.
Why's it good?
An instant thickener, stabilizer and binding agent, resulting in more stable formulas.
EWG Score.
1
Glyceryl Caprylate
What is it?
A 100% natural thickener derived from vegetable oil and vegetable glycerin.
Why's it good?
Acts as a natural thickener and surfactant enhancer to help clean and condition hair.
EWG Score.
1
Polyglyceryl-3 Stearate
What is it?
A plant-based ester derived from glycerin and stearyl alcohol, often from rapeseed oil.
Why's it good?
Acts as a natural emulsifier (helps blend stuff) and stabilisation agent.
EWG Score.
1
Lauryl/Myristyl Polyricinoleate
What is it?
An organic compound derived from lauric and myristylic alcohols (fatty alcohols present in coconut and palm oils) and ricinoleic acid (an unsaturated omega-9 fatty acid found in caster oil).
Why's it good?
Offers excellent conditioning properties that provide moisture and leave hair feeling soft and easy to comb.
EWG Score.
1
Behentrimonium Chloride
What is it?
A cleaning and conditioning agent derived from rapeseed oil.
Why's it good?
A highly effective plant-based conditioner. Unlike petrochemical-based ingredients that coat the hair shaft, it is able to penetrate the hair for greater hydration without the buildup. It detangles, softens, and helps strengthen hair.
EWG Score.
4
Cetearyl Alcohol
What is it?
A waxy substance made from fatty alcohols derived from plants, like coconut oil.
Why's it good?
Acts as an emulsifier and stabilizer to prevent products from separating.
EWG Score.
1
Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride
What is it?
An emollient derived from coconut oil and glycerin.
Why's it good?
A unique mix of fatty acids helps to retain moisture and repair hair stands. An excellent conditioning agent for dry hair and skin.
EWG Score.
1
PCA Glyceryl Oleate
What is it?
An natural ester derived from vegetable oils and sugars.
Why's it good?
An excellent conditioner due to its ability to adhere to the hair cuticle and renew the lipid layer of the hair, reducing frizz.
EWG Score.
1
Isopropyl Alcohol
What is it?
An isomer of propyl alcohol with antibacterial properties.
Why's it good?
Helps absorption of other substances into hair follicles.
EWG Score.
2
Brassicyl Isoleucinate Esylate/ Brassica Alcohol
What is it?
A natural emulsifier derived from fermentation and plant materials (rice and sugar cane).
Why's it good?
Provides great natural conditioning system and replacement for silicones. It softens and detangles, without build up, leaving hair feeling light and weightless.
EWG Score.
1
Hyaluronic Acid
Latin name.
Hyaluronate
What is it?
A naturally produced substance that mainly functions to retain water in our bodies to keep tissues and joints well lubricated and moisturized.
Why's it good?
Hyaluronic acid offers multi-benefit hydration. It helps hair follicles lock in moisture, helping with any flaky, dry areas on your scalp and also helps reduce frizz.
How do we use it?
This moisture-binding ingredient can be found in our conditioner, helping you lock in moisture during the last step in your wash routine.
EWG Score.
1
Parabens (methyl-, isobutyl-, propyl- and others)
What is it?
A class of preservatives commonly used to prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, while extending shelf life.
Why's it bad?
Parabens can be endocrine (or hormone) disruptors, which may alter important hormone mechanisms in our bodies. More specifically, they mimic estrogen in the human body, and are linked to reproductive organ harm, thyroid disruption, hormone-related cancers, and obesity.
Where's it found?
Often found in shampoo, conditioner, face cleanser, body wash, body lotion, and foundation.
What we used instead?
Water is prone to bacteria growth, so by removing it from our formulas, we bypass the need for chemical preservatives making them even cleaner.
Other disguises
Methylparaben (E number E218), ethylparaben (E214), propylparaben (E216), butylparaben and heptylparaben (E209) isobutylparaben, isopropylparaben, benzylparaben and their sodium salts.
Sulfates (SLS & SLES)
What is it?
Sulfates are a type of surfactant – they clean things. They are molecules that can attract both oil and water to lift the grease and grime off of our skin and hair, dissolve (emulsify) it into solution and then rinse everything down the drain. Sulfates may give you the most lather or bubbles, but lather is not the best indicator of how well a surfactant actually cleans.
Why's it bad?
Sulfates are inexpensive and widely-used, however they are harsh surfactants that can cause skin irritation or trigger allergies. They often strip away too much moisture, leaving the hair dry and unhealthy and the scalp dry and prone to irritation. They also can strip colour from dyed hair more quickly. SLES (a types of sulfate) is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a by-product of a petrochemical process called ethoxylation which is a known carcinogen.
Where's it found?
Often found in shampoo, body wash, and bubble bath.
What we used instead?
We replaced harsh sulfates with coconut-derived cleansers, including Sodium Cocoyl Isothionate and Sodium N-Lauroyl-L-Glutamate. These gently cleanse the hair follicles and the scalp without stripping the natural oil barrier. Sodium Cocoyl Isothionate is also known as 'baby foam' for its rich, velvety lather. It washes away dirt and excess oil while hydrating to leave the hair and skin feeling soft and silky-smooth.
Other disguises
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate, Sodium Lauroyl Isoethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Taurate, Sodium Cocoyl Isoethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Methyl Isoethionate, Sodium Lauroyl Sarcosinate Disodium Laureth Sulfosuccinate.
Phthalates (DBP, DEHP, DEP and others)
What is it?
A class of plasticizing chemicals used to make products more pliable or to make fragrances stick to skin. They are widely used in personal care products to moisturize and soften skin or to dissolve and combine ingredients. They are also found in one of the most common types of plastic (PVC) and can leach inside packaging before seeping into the skin.
Why's it bad?
Phthalates can disrupt the endocrine system and may cause birth defects. Whenever you see the term fragrance this can mean there are hidden phthalates, which have been linked to breast cancers, reproductive malformation, infertility and hormonal harm in children and men.
Where's it found?
Often found in synthetic fragrance, nail polish, hairspray, and commonly-used plastic materials.
What we used instead?
We do not use any ingredients containing phthalates, nor will we use synthetic fragrance which can contain unwanted chemicals. We do use essentials oils that also have a hair and/or skin benefits and they will always be clearly marked on the label.
Other disguises
DEHP (di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate) DMP (dimethyl phthalate) BBP (benzyl butyl phthalate) DNOP (di-n-octyl phthalate).
Bisphenol A (BPA)
What is it?
A chemical widely used in polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins. Polycarbonate and PVC are the most common plastic packaging used in cosmetics and personal care products.
Why's it bad?
BPA can migrate inside from plastic packaging or epoxy coating, and can also be used inside formulas through BPA-based polymers. It is a well-known endocrine disruptor and has been linked to adverse health effects ranging from infertility to cancer.
Where's it found?
Often found to seep inside from polycarbonate plastic packaging.
What we used instead?
We are and always will be BPA-free. We avoid plastic inside and out and ensure that the thin epoxy lining inside our aluminum tubes is BPA-free and both food-grade and medical-grade safe to use.
Other disguises
BPA (2,2-bis (4-hydroxyphenyl) propane), plastic #7.
Polyethylene glycol (PEGs)
What is it?
PEGs are petroleum-based compounds (ie. plastic) widely used in cosmetics as thickeners, solvents, softeners, and moisture-carriers.
Why's it bad?
Another microplastic! Depending on manufacturing processes, PEGs may be contaminated with measurable amounts of ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, which are both carcinogens, that may cause cancer and respiratory or nervous system damage, as well as a skin and eye irritation.
Where's it found?
Found in creams, sunscreen, foundation, body wash, shampoo, deodorant and toothpaste.
What we used instead?
We use 100% vegetable-derived thickeners such as glyceryl caprylate/caprate and xanthan gum, that act as natural gelling-emulsifying agents and create a soft, silicone-like feel on skin and hair without the plastic.
Other disguises
Macrogol.
Insoluble Microplastics
What is it?
Once the plastic we throw away enters the environment it breaks down in the sun, waves and wind into much smaller pieces. Microplastics are less then 1/4 inch in size and come in many forms, including fragments, pellets, beads, fibers, and film. Plastic takes over 400 years to breakdown on land and can live forever in the ocean.
Why's it bad?
They are everywhere - in the air we breathe, water we drink and food we eat. Now research confirms the inevitable: we have microplastics in our bodies. Plastics also vary in their chemical toxicity, with ocean plastic attracting pollutants like heavy metals and organic pesticides increasing the risk. Interesting note - most bioplastics require specific heat conditions to breakdown and even then often live on in the form of microplastics.
Where's it found?
Everywhere - they're in our environment, but also leach in from plastic water bottles and cosmetic packaging or from everyday products we use.
What we used instead?
Although replacing your plastic water bottle with a reusable metal or glass alternative is a good place to start, we are out to end single-use plastic packaging and replace with safe and reusable materials, such as aluminum and paper.
Other disguises
Plastic Microbeads.
Silicone
What is it?
Silicone in beauty products functions similarly to applying a liquid plastic layer to your body. This water-repellant film creates a barrier against the evaporation of the skin’s natural moisture while trapping foreign particles inside.
Why's it bad?
Silicones are not biodegradable. They wash down into our drains and into the oceans, accumulating inside of wildlife. From a beauty point of view, they also coat the hair shaft which can be detrimental to hair health, resulting in heaviness and build-up over time.
Where's it found?
Often found in conditioners, masks, lotions, and cosmetics.
What we used instead?
We use natural oils and butters, such as amla, jojoba and shea to mimic the smoothing effects of silicone.
Other disguises
Dimethicone.
Petrochemicals
What is it?
Petrochemicals are incredibly pervasive in beauty products. There is a surprising number of things that can be distilled from petroleum, including preservatives, gelifying agents, solvents and stabilizers so they can easily be disguised.
Why's it bad?
The big health concern with petroleum products is that they can generate 1,4-dioxane, a substance known to potentially contribute to some cancers. It’s also a kidney toxin, neurotoxin, and a respiratory toxin, not to mention a leading groundwater contaminant.
Where's it found?
Everywhere.
What we used instead?
We are against plastic inside and out. We go to great lengths to avoid using petroleum-derived ingredients and instead source ingredients that are naturally-derived.
Other disguises
Mineral Oil, Petroleum Jelly, Petrolatum, Paraffin, Polybutene, and Hydrogenated Polyisobutene.
Synthetic fragrances & flavors
What is it?
These scents or flavors are engineered in a lab from any combination of over 3,000 stock chemical ingredients.
Why's it bad?
Fragrance formulas are protected under federal law as trade secrets so the chemical composition of 'fragrance' can remain undisclosed. Sadly this allows traditional beauty products to hide toxic ingredients, including phthalates, hormone disruptors and allergens, inside 'fragrance' on the ingredient list.
Where's it found?
Everywhere - in all types of cosmetics.
What we used instead?
We believe in transparency and ingredients with clear benefits. We use natural essential oils selected with purpose for their skin and hair benefits, which will always be clearly list as an ingredient.
Other disguises
Fragrance, parfum, aroma.
Dyes
What is it?
Artificial colors and dyes are chemical additives that change the shade of soaps, lotions, shower gels, face creams, shampoos, styling products, and more. These dyes are often made up from a variety of synthetic chemicals.
Why's it bad?
You can find dozens of chemicals in a single dye, making it extremely difficult to know exactly what you’re exposing your body to. Many artificial colorants are made from coal tar, and some can contain heavy metal salts, including lead.
Where's it found?
Everywhere - in all types of cosmetics.
What we used instead?
Nothing. Our formulas are the colour that they are supposed to be. Because we use natural essential oils, some colour variation may occur, but for us this trade off is a no-brainer.
Other disguises
Often labeled as a CI #, color or by name (ie. CI 42090 (Blue 1), CI 15985/Yellow 6).
Formaldehydes (& releasing agents)
What is it?
Used as a preservative in cosmetics.
Why's it bad?
A known carcinogen that is also linked to asthma, neurotoxicity, and developmental toxicity.
Where's it found?
Often found in shampoo, body wash and bubble bath.
What we used instead?
Our water-free formulas require minimal (if any) preservatives and if required, we lean towards ones that are naturally derived with a proven safety profile
Other disguises
Present where quaternium-15, DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea, sodium hydroxymethylglycinate, 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3 diol (Bronopol), and several other preservatives are listed.
Talc
What is it?
Talc is a natural mineral (the softest mineral on record) and is used in a variety of cosmetic and personal care products from baby powders to eye shadow. It is mattifying, absorbs oils and gives formulas a soft powdery texture.
Why's it bad?
Talc has become very controversial recently, as can be contaminated with asbestos, a known human carcinogen that's linked to cancer (particularly ovarian and lung cancer). It also puts talc miners at risk. There has yet to be a specific concern with asbestos-free talc in cosmetics, but since its so hard to ensure its not contaminated, we believe it is best to stay away!
Where's it found?
Often found in baby powder, eyeshadow, foundation, lipstick, body and shower products, lotions, feminine hygiene products, deodorants and face masks.
What we used instead?
We do not think you need talc to create great powders. There are plenty of other natural substitutes including arrowroot starch, rice starch, cornstarch, oat flour and kaolin clay that give beautiful results on the skin.
Other disguises
Hydrous magnesium silicate, talcum powder, cosmetic talc.
Coal Tar
What is it?
A by-product of coal processing that's used as a colorant and an anti-dandruff agent.
Why's it bad?
The National Toxicology Program considers it a known carcinogen that are reasonably anticipated to cause cancer, produce skin tumors and neurological damage.
Where's it found?
Found in hair dye in particular, but also shampoo, scalp treatments, soaps, and lotions.
What we used instead?
Stay clear. We will never use and hope in the near future, no one does.
Other disguises
Coal tar solution, tar, coal, carbo-cort, coal tar solution, coal tar solution USP, crude coal tar, estar, impervotar, KC 261, lavatar, picis carbonis, naphtha, high solvent naphtha, naphtha distillate, benzin B70, petroleum benzin.
Triclosan and Triclocarban
What is it?
Antimicrobial pesticides, intended to reduce or prevent bacterial contamination.
Why's it bad?
Has been linked to negatively affect human immune function, decrease thyroid hormone levels, and may impact human reproductive system. Also known to be toxic to the aquatic environment and wildlife.
Where's it found?
Found in liquid soap, soap bars, body wash, facial cleanser, toothpaste.
What we used instead?
We don't see the need to add any active antibacterial chemicals, when regular soap is just as effective. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there is no evidence that soaps marketed as “antibacterial” actually work any better than just plain old soap.
Other disguises
Irgasan DP-300, Lexol 300, Ster-Zac, Cloxifenolum, Trichlorocarbanilide.
Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) / Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
What is it?
Synthetic antioxidants that act as preservatives used to extend shelf life and prevent oils from spoiling.
Why's it bad?
These preservatives are likely carcinogens and hormone disruptors. They may cause liver damage and linked to skin irritation, cancer, kidney and thyroid problems.
Where's it found?
Found in lipsticks, moisturizers, makeup, sunscreen, antiperspirant/ deodorant, and diaper creams.
What we used instead?
Our water-free formulas require minimal (if any) preservatives and if required, we lean towards ones that are naturally derived with a proven safety profile
Other disguises
Butylatedhydroxy Anisole.
Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)
What is it?
A chelating (binding) agent added to cosmetics to improve stability.
Why's it bad?
Is classified as a irritant to skin, eyes and lungs and may be toxic to organs.
Where's it found?
Most often found in hair color and bleaches, but also shampoo, conditioner, bar soap and moisturizers.
What we used instead?
We do not use EDTA in our formulas and have tested our formulas to be shelf-stable.
Other disguises
Edetic acid, 60-00-4, Edathamil.
Methylisothiazolinone (MI / MIT) / Methylchlorisothiazolinone (MCI / MCIT)
What is it?
Widely used chemical preservatives found in liquid cosmetic and personal care products.
Why's it bad?
Among the most common irritants, sensitizers, and causes of skin contact allergies. Has been linked to lung toxicity and neurotoxicity, as well as very toxic to aquatic life.
Where's it found?
Often found in shampoo, conditioner, hair color, body wash, lotion, sunscreen, mascara, shaving cream, hairspray, makeup remover, liquid soaps and detergents.
What we used instead?
Our water-free formulas require minimal (if any) preservatives and if required, we lean towards ones that are naturally derived with a proven safety profile
Other disguises
Benzisothiazolinone (BIT), Chloromethylisothiazolinone (CMIT), Octylisothiazolinone (OIT, OI).
Ethanolamines (MEA/DEA/TEA)
What is it?
Amino acids and alcohols that can act as a surfactant, emulsifier and pH adjuster.
Why's it bad?
Human immune and respiratory toxicant linked to allergies, skin toxicity, hormone disruption, and inhibited fetal brain development.
Where's it found?
Most often found in hair dyes and bleaches, as well as shampoo, body wash, cleansers, fragrances, sunscreens, mascara and foundation.
What we used instead?
We suggest avoiding any products that contain DEA, MEA or TEA due to commonly accepted safety concerns.
Other disguises
Triethanolamine, diethanolamine, DEA, TEA, cocamide DEA, cocamide MEA, DEA-cetyl phosphate, DEA oleth-3 phosphate, lauramide DEA, linoleamide MEA, myristamide DEA, oleamide DEA, stearamide MEA, TEA-lauryl sulfate.
Oxybenzone (Chemical Sunscreen)
What is it?
Sunscreen agent and ultraviolet light absorber. Acts as chemical UV filters to keep harmful rays from the skin.
Why's it bad?
FDA testing confirmed all non-mineral sunscreen chemicals are absorbed into the body and could be measured in blood after just a single use, as well as weeks after use. Toxicity is known, but health impact remains unclear. Some studies have linked to irritation, sensitization and allergies, and possible hormone disruption.
Where's it found?
Often found in sunscreen, moisturizer and foundation.
What we used instead?
We do not currently offer sunscreen, but would suggest mineral sunscreens that use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide to protect your skin.
Other disguises
benzophenone-3 or BP-3 (trade names Milestab 9, Eusolex 4360, Escalol 567, KAHSCREEN BZ-3); or similarly avobenzone, octisalate, octocrylene, homosalate and octinoxate.
Hydroquinone
What is it?
A skin-lightening chemical.
Why's it bad?
A chemical toxin that inhibits the production of melanin and becomes increasing dangerous with prolonged exposure. It's a known human respiratory toxicant and has been linked to organ toxicity, cancer, as well as wildlife and environmental toxicity.
Where's it found?
Found in skin-lightening creams, serums, and essences.
What we used instead?
We love the skin you're in. These chemicals are dangerous and we will never use them in any of our products.
Other disguises
1, 4-Benzenediol, Quinol, Benzene-1, 4-Diol, p-Diphenol, p-Dihydroxyl benzene, Hydrochinone, p-Hydroxylphenol, Hydrochinonium, Hydroquinol, Tequino.
Other stuff we will never use
PTFE/PFOA, Polyacrylamide / acrylamide, Acetaldehyde, Acetonitrile, Methylene chloride, Resorcinol, Acetone, Butoxyethanol, Methyl cellosolve, Mercury and mercury compounds (thimerosal), Ethyl acrylate, Ethyl methacrylate, Methyl methacrylate, Butyl methacrylate, Hydroxypropyl methacrylate, Tetrahydrofurfuryl methacrylate, Trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate, Aluminum Salts, Benzophenone Related Compounds, Butoxyethanol, Carbon Black, Lead, Lead Acetate, Methyl Cellosolve, Methoxyethanol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, Resorcinol,Polyacrylamide, Acrylamide, Bromostyrene, Deastyrene/acrylates/dvbcopolymer, Sodium styrene/divinylbenzene copolymer, Styrene oxide, Styrene and Nanoparticles as defined by EU.
Sources: EWG Skin Deep Cosmetics Database, Health Canada, FDA, National Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences, European Commission CosIng Database, The Endocrine Disruption Exchange.
