Toxic Ingredients to Avoid in Eye Cream & Face Moisturizer

Our skin's natural oil production decreases as we age, becoming more dry overall. Still, because the skin around our eyes has explicitly fewer oil glands, it's already dry.
You may be surprised to hear that the United States currently only forbids 11 substances in cosmetics suspected of being harmful. On the other hand, the European Union has outlawed over 2,400 potentially dangerous cosmetic ingredients. 

The cosmetic industry in the United States is very flexible. Because of that, it's essential to check the ingredients in your favorite beauty and skincare products. There may be ingredients of concern that may be linked to harmful side effects. It's critical to read and understand your ingredient labels. 

A Comprehensive Guide to Cosmetic Ingredients You Should Avoid (And Their Safer Alternatives)

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates the safety of cosmetics and personal care products. However, the agency's current oversight leaves much to be desired. As a result, it's up to you—the consumer—to be vigilant about the ingredients in the products you use.

Even if you're familiar with ingredient lists, navigating the sea of chemical names, acronyms, and greenwashing can be overwhelming. That's why having a go-to list of ingredients to avoid is crucial when shopping online or in stores.

Learning about natural ingredients that can replace harmful synthetics is equally essential. Here's a detailed list of 14 cosmetic ingredients you should ditch immediately, along with healthier alternatives. We'll also cover why they're harmful, where they're restricted, and how to spot them on labels.

14 Cosmetic Ingredients to Avoid (and Healthier Alternatives)

 1.  1,4 Dioxane

According to the EPA, a byproduct of ingredient processing, 1,4 Dioxane is a probable human carcinogen. It's also linked to cardiovascular, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and skin toxicity.

- Found in Shampoo, cleansers, body wash, and liquid soap.
- Restricted in: Canada.
- Look for Sodium laureth sulfate, PEG compounds, and ingredients containing "xynol," "ceteareth," or "oleth."
- Healthier Alternatives: Opt for 100% organic products free from ethoxylation processes or those using natural foaming agents.

 2. DEA, TEA, MEA

These ammonia compounds are used as foaming agents and emulsifiers but are linked to cancer, organ toxicity, and skin irritation.

- Found in: Makeup, shampoo, sunscreen, and hair dye.
- Restricted in: European Union.
- Look for DEA, TEA, MEA, and compounds like cocamide DEA.
- Healthier Alternatives: Natural emulsifiers like beeswax or lecithin and surfactants like Castile soap.

 3. Dimethicone

This silicone-based ingredient locks in moisture and blocks pores, leading to acne and irritation.

- Found in: Moisturizers, serums, sunscreens, and hair care.
- Look for: Dimethicone, methicone, and similar compounds.
- Healthier Alternatives:** Shea butter, mango butter, and jojoba oil offer moisture without clogging pores.

 4. Formaldehyde

A known carcinogen, formaldehyde, is released by certain preservatives and can cause organ toxicity and skin irritation.

- Found in Hair straighteners, nail polish, and deodorant.
- Restricted in Japan, Sweden, EU, Canada.
- Look for: Formaldehyde, formalin, quaternium-15, and DMDM hydantoin.
- Healthier Alternatives:** Choose products with natural preservatives like Vitamin E and essential oils.

 5. Heavy Metals

Lead, aluminum, and other metals can disrupt hormones and lead to cancer and reproductive issues.

- Found in Lip products, nail polish, and sunscreen.
- Restricted in EU, Canada, and Japan.
- Look for Aluminum, lead acetate, chromium, and thimerosal.
- Healthier Alternatives: Use trusted natural brands and check for non-nano titanium dioxide in sunscreens.

 6. Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)

Used as a preservative, MIT is linked to neurotoxicity and allergic reactions.

- Found in Water-based products like hair care and body wash.
- Restricted in: EU.
- Look for: Methylisothiazolinone and its derivatives.
- Healthier Alternatives: Natural preservatives like grapefruit seed extract or Vitamin E.

 7. Parabens

Parabens mimic estrogen and have been found in breast tissue. They're linked to fertility issues and fetal development problems.

- Found in: Hair care, body wash, sunscreen, and skincare.
- Restricted in Denmark (children's products).
- Look for Methylparaben, butylparaben, and similar compounds.
- Healthier Alternatives: Essential oils and antioxidants offer safer preservation.

 8. Petrochemicals

Petroleum jelly and mineral oil may be contaminated with carcinogens and can cause skin issues.

- Found in Skincare, body care, and lip balm.
- Restricted in EU (requires entire refining history).
- Look for: Petrolatum, mineral oil, paraffin wax.
- Healthier Alternatives: Cocoa butter, shea butter, and other natural emollients.

 9. Phthalates

Phthalates are linked to cancer and hormonal disruption, particularly affecting fertility and fetal development.

- Found in Hair spray, perfume, and nail polish.
- Restricted in EU (DBP and DEHP banned).
- Look for DEP, DBP, DEHP, and often listed under "fragrance."
- Healthier Alternatives: Choose fragrance-free or naturally sourced fragrance products.

 10. PEG Compounds

These petroleum-based chemicals can irritate the skin and allow harmful ingredients to penetrate the skin more easily.

- Found in Skincare, makeup, and baby care products.
- Look for: PEG followed by a number (e.g., PEG-20).
- Healthier Alternatives: Aloe vera, honey, and hyaluronic acid provide natural moisture.

 11. Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate

These foaming agents strip natural oils from the skin and cause dryness and irritation.

- Found in: Shampoo, toothpaste, and bubble bath.
- Look for Sodium laureth sulfate and sodium lauryl sulfate.
- Healthier Alternatives: Castile and soapwort are safer, natural alternatives.

 12. Artificial Colorants

Petroleum-based colorants can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions and are linked to carcinogens.

- Found in Shampoo, cleansers, makeup, and baby products.
- Restricted by: FDA (some colors).
- Look for: FD&C or D&C followed by a color and number (e.g., FD&C Red No. 40).
- Healthier Alternatives: Opt for mineral pigments or plant-based dyes.

 13. Synthetic Sunscreens

Chemical sunscreens can disrupt hormones and irritate skin, making them less safe for long-term use.

- Found in Sunscreens, facial moisturizers, and lip protection.
- Restricted in: Japan.
- Look for Oxybenzone, octinoxate, and homosalate.
- Healthier Alternatives: Use sunscreens with non-nano zinc oxide for safe UV protection.

14. Triclosan

Initially used in hospitals, triclosan is linked to organ toxicity, allergic reactions, and hormonal disruption.

- Found in: Hand soaps, toothpaste, and deodorant.
- Restricted by: FDA (must be removed from OTC products).
- Look for: Triclosan and its derivatives.
- Healthier Alternatives: Stick with warm water and natural soap for handwashing.

Conclusion

Safe, organic beauty products aren't a luxury but a necessity. By educating yourself on harmful ingredients and making smarter choices, you can protect your health and promote safer beauty standards.