Identifying Safe Cosmetics
Here are some tips for selecting safer beauty products*:
- Read ingredient labels. Look for plant-based (botanical) products and names you can pronounce. Keep in mind that even some botanicals can cause allergic reactions. Be wary of ingredients in ALL CAPITAL LETTERS, which are often acronyms for synthetic or petroleum-based chemicals of concern.
- Use certified organic products. These are free of phthalates, parabens, and other questionable ingredients.
- Be aware that simple, familiar, and fewer ingredients usually indicate safer products.
- Look for products that state they are “readily biodegradable” (able to be decomposed naturally) and “non-toxic to humans and aquatic life.”
- Use a diluted vinegar rinse to reduce fungal related conditions and to treat and prevent dandruff (Use a 4:1 dilution of water to vinegar.)
- Avoid products with formaldehyde, such as hair-straighteners.
- Use safer nail products. Nail polish can contain very harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates, and more. Many of these become volatile organic chemicals that should not be inhaled. Check EWG’s Skin Deep to find safe polishes. Most nail polish removers are made of acetone. Acetone is a strong solvent capable of dissolving materials, including plastics and nail polish. It can irritate the skin and eyes. It is unclear whether non-acetone nail polish removers are preferable.
*Research ingredients and safer personal care products at EWG’s Skin Deep. Please see the Toolkit for the link to the website and a 2-minute video on how to use the Skin Deep website and app.