Our black list of ingredients
In formulating our products, we only use ingredients proven to be non-harmful to the skin and biodegradable in nature.
1. Talc
Why it's toxic: Talc is often contaminated with asbestos, a substance known to cause cancer. When inhaled, it can cause serious respiratory problems, including lung cancer.
Environmental impact: Talc is a non-biodegradable mineral that persists in the environment, contributing to long-term pollution.
EU Regulation: The European Union does not ban talc in cosmetics, but it does impose strict restrictions on asbestos content.
2. Petroleum
Why it's toxic: Petroleum products, such as petroleum jelly or mineral oil, can clog pores, preventing skin from breathing and exacerbating skin problems like acne. They're also linked to allergic reactions.
Environmental impact: Petrochemicals are derived from non-renewable resources and are non-biodegradable, which contributes to environmental pollution.
EU Regulation: The use of petroleum derivatives in cosmetics is regulated in Europe, requiring rigorous purification to remove harmful impurities.
3. Phthalates
Why it's toxic: Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with the hormonal system and cause fertility problems. They are also associated with an increased risk of cancer.
Environmental impact: Phthalates do not degrade easily in the environment, leading to persistent contamination of soil and water.
EU Regulation: The European Union bans the use of certain phthalates (such as DEHP, DBP, and BBP) in cosmetics due to their harmful effects on human health.
4. PEG (Polyethylene Glycol)
Why it’s toxic: PEGs can be contaminated with toxic impurities like 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen. They can also irritate the skin and disrupt the skin barrier.
Environmental impact: PEGs are derived from petroleum and are not readily biodegradable, contributing to water and soil pollution.
EU Regulation: Although PEGs themselves are not banned, the European Union imposes strict restrictions on the levels of contaminants in these ingredients.
5. Formaldehyde
Why it's toxic: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, which can cause skin, eye and respiratory irritation, as well as severe allergic reactions.
Environmental impact: Formaldehyde is a persistent chemical that can contaminate air, water and soil, harming aquatic life and human health.
EU Regulation: The European Union bans the use of formaldehyde in cosmetics due to its toxicity and carcinogenic potential.
6. Sulfates (SLS and SLES)
Why it's toxic: Sulfates like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) can cause severe skin irritation, dryness, and disrupt the skin's natural barrier.
Environmental impact: Sulfates are derived from petroleum and are not readily biodegradable, leading to contamination of water sources and affecting aquatic wildlife.
EU Regulation: Although sulfates are not banned, their use is monitored, and restrictions are imposed to limit their concentration in cosmetic products.
7. Lead
Why it's toxic: Lead is a powerful neurotoxin that can cause serious health problems, including developmental disabilities in children, cognitive impairment, and kidney and nervous system damage.
Environmental impact: Lead is a heavy metal that does not degrade in the environment, contributing to soil and water pollution, with devastating effects on animal and human life.
EU Regulation: The European Union bans the use of lead in cosmetic products due to its serious health effects.
8. Parabens
Why it's toxic: Parabens are preservatives that can disrupt the endocrine system, and certain types of parabens are suspected of being linked to breast cancer.
Environmental impact: Parabens do not degrade easily and can accumulate in the environment, disrupting aquatic ecosystems.
EU Regulation: The European Union has banned some parabens (such as isopropylparaben, isobutylparaben) in cosmetics, while others are strictly regulated to minimize risks.
9. Silicones
Why it’s toxic: Silicones, like dimethicone, are often used to give products a smooth, silky texture. However, they can form an occlusive barrier on the skin, trapping dirt, bacteria, and oil, which can lead to breakouts, irritation, and a buildup of toxins under the skin.
Environmental impact: Silicones are not biodegradable and persist in the environment, contributing to aquatic pollution. They can accumulate in ecosystems, affecting marine life.
EU Regulation: Silicones are not banned in the European Union, but their use is increasingly under scrutiny, particularly cyclopentasiloxanes (D4) and cyclotetrasiloxanes (D5), which are restricted in some products due to their environmental impact.