It’s easy to assume that all the products in your favorite beauty shop are safe to use. After all, there are governing bodies meant to ensure that businesses only sell products that meet certain safety standards, right? Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
Many popular beauty products contain harmful chemicals like parabens, phthalates, and PFAS. And while some of these chemicals have been FDA-approved for different uses, they’ve been linked to a range of long-term effects. With enough exposure, they can cause issues with fertility, increased heart disease risk, and pre- and postnatal development. Let’s take a closer look at these chemicals, why they’re so dangerous, and how you can protect yourself:
Parabens
Parabens are preservatives and are often used to provide a longer shelf-life for makeup, skincare, and hair products. They help prevent the growth of molds, fungi, bacteria, and other harmful substances. The Food and Drug Administration says parabens are safe in small amounts. However, the concern with chemicals like parabens is that scientific studies show they can act like the hormone estrogen in the body. This hormonal mix-up can mess with how your body functions and may potentially increase the risk of health issues like:
- Skin irritation
- Fertility issues
- Cancer
These endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can also harm pregnant women. According to one study published by the NIH, EDCs are linked to fetal growth retardation, neurological disorders, and thyroid dysfunction. The FDA scientists are still reviewing published studies on the safety of parabens. Currently, they don’t have data showing that parabens (as they’re used in cosmetics), affect human health.
Common parabens you’ll see on labels include methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. More brands are offering “paraben-free” products, but keep an eye out—sometimes, they swap parabens for other chemicals that aren’t much better. So, when in doubt, look for brands that are clear about what’s inside their products.
Phthalates
You may have come across the word "phthalates" before, but it’s likely not a term that stands out on ingredient labels. That’s because phthalates are often hidden within the term “fragrance” or “parfum.”
This labeling loophole allows companies to protect their secret fragrance formulas, but it also means they don’t have to disclose the chemicals they contain—including potentially harmful ones like phthalates. Surprisingly, most of the toxic chemicals in personal care products are found in these undisclosed fragrance blends.
You’ll find phthalates in things cosmetics, hair dyes, colognes, skin moisturizers, shampoos, lotions, and many other personal care products. They’re also present in products labeled “unscented”—which often contain chemicals to neutralize the smell. That’s why it’s wise to avoid products that list “fragrance,” “parfum,” or “aroma” unless the brand specifically states that it’s phthalate-free or fully discloses the fragrance components.
So, why are phthalates such a big deal?
Research has shown that they can disrupt hormones, particularly affecting reproductive health. Phthalate exposure has been linked to infertility in men, developmental issues in children, and a host of other health concerns. The people in the high-exposure group are also more likely to die early, according to one study. However, the researchers only suggest a link between phthalates and dying early but doesn’t prove cause and effect.
PFAS
PFAs, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl, are also widely used in beauty products. They’re added to things like foundations and moisturizers to make them waterproof or give a smooth feel. In fact, they’re nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they are notoriously slow to break down and may linger in the human body and environment for many years.
PFAs exposure has been linked to health problems, including cancer, fertility issues, and hormone disruption. Although the FDA and other agencies have started regulating some PFAS, companies often replace them with new versions that haven’t been fully tested. Besides, most products don’t even disclose the chemical on their ingredient labels. But when they do, you’ll see ingredients with “fluoro” in the name, like perfluorononyl dimethicone or polytetrafluoroethylene.
Other chemicals to avoid include:
- Oxybenzone, a sunblock ingredient that poses great danger to coral reefs around the world.
- Toluene, a toxic ingredient used in nail products and treatments, can cause dizziness, headaches, and respiratory issues.
- Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT) are common preservatives in lipsticks, moisturizers, and other cosmetics. They are linked to hormone disruption and potential cancer risks.
- Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents are found in hair treatments, nail polishes, and eyelash glue. These are known carcinogens that can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
- N-ethylpentedrone (NEP) and N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone (NMP) are solvents found in some cosmetics and hair care products that may pose risks to reproductive health and can irritate the skin and eyes.
- Triclosan, an antimicrobial agent used in soaps, toothpaste, and deodorants, has been linked to hormone disruption and can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
While most of these don’t fall under chemicals of major public health concerns, they could still cause health issues in the long run. Many cosmetics have also been linked to acute risks like infections and burns. Keratin hair treatments (formaldehyde-based) have been associated with nosebleeds, blisters, rashes, hair loss, bleeding gums, and loss of smell and taste.
How To Protect Yourself
When it comes to picking out beauty products, it’s easy to get lost in all the fancy packaging and promises. But protecting yourself starts with knowing what’s actually in those bottles and jars. Start by reading labels carefully—watch out for those sneaky toxic ingredients like parabens, phthalates, and oxybenzone. Unfortunately, many harmful chemicals are often hidden behind words like “fragrance” or “parfum,” so it’s not always straightforward.
You can also make a switch to natural and organic alternatives. Organic beauty products skip the harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and preservatives that can mess with your hormones, irritate your skin, and cause other health issues. Instead, they’re packed with nourishing, plant-based ingredients that work with your body, helping your skin look and feel its best without the hidden dangers.
Still, not all natural or organic products are created the same. The beauty industry is largely unregulated, and brands can get away with misleading labels. That’s why it’s super important to look for products with genuine organic certifications. If you’re looking for a brand you can trust, Pure Treesy is a solid choice. Our products are certified organic, which means they meet strict standards for quality and safety. Give us a try; we promise you won’t regret it.
