What’s In Your Personal Care Products?

Looking through my collection of personal care products one day, I realized they were full of ingredients I knew nothing about. What’s “SLS” and why is it in everything from my soap to my toothpaste? I learned what I could about all these different ingredients that are at the top of the discussion lately.   

I’m ready to share with you what I know about these substances so you can make informed choices, too! 💚  

In this article, you will learn about:

• What’s In Your Personal Care Products?
• What Are Parabens, Phthalates, and Sulfates?
• Full list of chemicals common to the skincare line in your products.
• FAQs About Parabens, Phthalates, and Sulfates

What’s In Your Personal Care Products?

Personal care products refer to a wide range of items used for grooming, hygiene, and enhancing personal appearance. This includes:

• Haircare Products: Shampoos, conditioners, hair masks, styling gels, and serums.
• Skincare Products: Moisturizers, cleansers, exfoliants, sunscreens, serums, and toners.

These products are designed to improve the health and appearance of skin and hair, often containing various active ingredients that can have beneficial or harmful effects.

Good Ingredients vs Bad Ingredients in Your Personal Care Items

Good Ingredients In Haircare & Skincare	Bad Ingredients In Haircare & Skincare
Natural Oils: Argan oil, coconut oil, jojoba oil (moisturizing and nourishing).	Sulfates: Sodium lauryl sulfate (can strip natural oils, leading to dryness).
Aloe Vera: Soothes the scalp and conditions hair.	Parabens: Used as preservatives (linked to hormonal disruptions).
Proteins: Keratin, silk proteins (strengthen hair).	Synthetic Fragrances: Can cause irritation and allergic reactions.
Vitamins: Vitamin E, B vitamins (promote healthy hair growth).	Formaldehyde: A preservative that can be harmful with prolonged exposure.
Skincare	Skincare
Hyaluronic Acid: Hydrates and plumps skin.	Alcohols: Isopropyl alcohol (can be drying and irritating).
Retinol: Promotes cell turnover and reduces signs of aging.	Synthetic Dyes: Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions.
Natural Botanicals: Chamomile, calendula (soothing and anti-inflammatory).	Phthalates: Often used in fragrances (linked to hormonal issues). Mineral Oil: Can clog pores and lead to breakouts in some individuals.

What Are Parabens, Phthalates, and Sulfates?

Lately, the inclusion of parabens, phthalates, and sulfates in personal care items has become more controversial. These substances appear to have been forever removed from the list of acceptable skin care ingredients by numerous companies.

Parabens

Every product, from personal care items to food and pharmaceuticals, has a shelf life – the length of time during which a product can be safely used without the risk of spoilage or degradation.

It’s essential to note that natural products generally possess an even shorter shelf life compared to most synthetic products. This is primarily due to the absence of chemical preservatives that help extend the longevity of synthetic alternatives.

To maintain the freshness and integrity of products throughout their intended usage period, chemists are often required to incorporate preservatives into their formulations.

Parabens are a specific category of compounds that serve as preservatives in a wide range of cosmetic, food, and pharmaceutical products. These compounds are effective in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria, mold, and yeast, which can compromise the safety and effectiveness of products.

Their use dates back to the 1930s, when they began to gain popularity in the beauty industry as a reliable method to keep cosmetics free from contamination. As a result, many items you might find in your daily routine, such as serums, face creams, shampoos, and shower gels, are likely to contain parabens.

The common types of parabens include methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben, each of which varies slightly in chemical structure but shares a common function as a preservative. Despite their effectiveness, parabens have come under scrutiny in recent years due to concerns about their potential health effects. Some studies suggest that parabens can be absorbed through the skin and may mimic estrogen in the body, leading to debates about their role in hormonal disruption and potential links to certain health conditions.

As a response to these concerns, many consumers have pushed for “paraben-free” products, leading several brands to reformulate their items by eliminating parabens or replacing them with alternative preservatives.

However, it is important for consumers to understand that while paraben-free products may seem like a safer choice, they can still harbor other preservatives that may pose their own sets of questions regarding safety and toxicity.

Phthalates

Phthalates are substances utilized to render plastics soft and flexible.

They can be present in various items, including cosmetics and personal care products (such as perfume, shampoo, soap, moisturizers, and nail polish), as well as food, wood finishes, detergents, plastic plumbing pipes, vinyl flooring, and numerous other everyday products.

Studies have suggested links between phthalate exposure and reproductive problems, developmental issues in children, and other health risks. Because of these concerns, many manufacturers are seeking alternatives and reformulating products to minimize or eliminate the use of phthalates.

Consumers can reduce exposure by checking product labels, opting for phthalate-free items, and choosing natural or organic alternatives whenever possible. Regulatory bodies in several countries are also implementing stricter guidelines to limit phthalate use in consumer products to ensure public safety.

Sulfates

Sulfates contribute to the foamy lather you experience with most shampoos.

If you’ve ever tried a sulfate-free shampoo, you’ll quickly realize that the washing experience is less frothy and bubbly. Sulfates encompass a broad category of chemicals utilized as cleansing agents in numerous beauty and personal care items.

While effective at creating lather, it can sometimes strip natural oils from your hair and scalp, leading to dryness or irritation for some individuals. This is why many people with sensitive skin or color-treated hair opt for sulfate-free alternatives. These products are formulated to cleanse gently without compromising the hair’s natural moisture balance.

While they may not produce as much foam, they still effectively remove dirt and buildup, leaving your hair clean and healthy. Additionally, sulfate-free shampoos are often enriched with nourishing ingredients like essential oils and plant extracts, which can enhance hair’s overall condition and shine.

List of Chemicals You Need To Avoid In 2025

Chemical	Why to Avoid

Denatured Alcohol

Strips natural oils and disrupts skin’s moisture barrier. Can lead to dryness, irritation, and increased sensitivity.

Benzyl Alcohol

May cause skin sensitization and allergic reactions. Can irritate compromised or sensitive skin types.

Alcohol Denat

Harsh solvent that dehydrates and weakens skin barrier. Repeated use can exacerbate dryness and flakiness.

Isopropyl Alcohol

Extremely drying; evaporates quickly, pulling moisture out. Leads to tightness, redness, and potential micro‑cracking in skin.

SD Alcohol

Fast‑evaporating denaturant; strips lipids from skin. Promotes transepidermal water loss, increasing irritation risk.

Benzyl Chloride

Listed as a potential carcinogen and mutagen. Can also cause respiratory and skin irritation on contact.

Glycolic Acid

Over‑exfoliation risk when used in high concentrations. It can weaken the barrier function and increase sun sensitivity.

Propylene Glycol

Common irritant and penetration enhancer. May cause redness, itching, and amplify absorption of other harmful ingredients.

Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde‑Releasing Preservatives

Classified human carcinogen; linked to allergies. Releasers (e.g., DMDM hydantoin) continuously emit formaldehyde over time.

Phenoxyethanol

Potential neurotoxin in high doses; skin irritant. May cause eye and lung irritation, and impacts sensitive skin.

Polyethylene Glycols (PEG)

Often contaminated with 1,4‑dioxane and ethylene oxide. Can disrupt skin barrier and accumulate toxins over time.

Alpha‑Isomethyl Ionone

Synthetic fragrance allergen, linked to contact dermatitis. A common trigger of redness, itching, and flare‑ups in sensitive individuals.

FD&C Colors

Synthetic dyes linked to allergic reactions and hyperactivity in children. Bioaccumulate and may contain heavy‑metal impurities.

• FD&C Blue No. 1 (Brilliant Blue)

• FD&C Yellow No. 5 (Tartrazine)

• FD&C Red No. 40 (Allura Red)

D&C Colors

Cosmetic‑grade dyes that can trigger skin irritation. Tend to be contaminated with carcinogenic impurities.

• D&C Red No. 27 (Rosamine)

• D&C Green No. 5

CI Numbers (Color Index)

Standardized dye codes, often synthetic and irritating. Same concerns as FD&C/D&C colors apply.

• CI 19140 (Yellow 5)

• CI 42090 (Blue 1)

• CI 16035 (Red 40)

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

Excessive use can thin the skin barrier and cause photosensitivity. Leads to redness, stinging, and increased sunburn risk if not paired with SPF.

Let’s Learn About These Chemicals

What are these chemicals, and why are they bad? Let’s dive a little deeper into these big questions.  

(For all my research enthusiasts, I’ve got plenty of articles and studies for you to check out below!)  

Long-Term Exposure  

The biggest problem with these chemicals is that they are in everything, so you will get repeated, long-term exposure. If they were rarer, occasional exposure wouldn’t cause much of an issue at all.  

Here are the basics to know about the big 3 chemicals to watch out for in your cleaning and personal products:  

• Parabens: These are preservatives used to prevent mold and bacteria from growing in your personal care products. They’re found in everything from moisturizers to shampoos.
  But here’s the catch: Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially leading to hormone disruption. There’s growing evidence that parabens are linked to certain cancers, including breast cancer. 

• Phthalates: These chemicals are often used to make fragrances last longer. The problem? Phthalates have been linked to reproductive issues and can cause hormone disruption. Worse, they’re often hidden on ingredient labels under the term “fragrance,” making them hard to avoid. They’re even banned in some countries due to evidence showing they are harmful.  

• Sulfates (like SLS): These are the foaming agents in shampoos, body washes, and toothpaste. While they help create that satisfying lather, they can strip your skin and hair of natural oils, leaving you feeling dry and irritated. Plus, sulfates are known skin irritants and have been linked to long-term issues like eczema.  

Some of these chemicals (phthalates in particular) are also found in plastic packaging. Many foods absorb some level of phthalates when stored in plastic (as in- the plastic packaging from the factory that you have no control over!), increasing the average person’s exposure and ingestion.  

Environmental Concerns  

Emerging studies suggest that parabens and phthalates are accumulating in the environment, posing risks to plants, animals, and people.  

• Studies have shown parabens cause water contamination. Parabens, commonly used as preservatives in cosmetic and pharmaceutical products, can seep into waterways through wastewater systems.
  This contamination poses risks to aquatic life and potentially affects human health. Efforts to reduce paraben usage and improve wastewater treatment processes are crucial in mitigating their impact on the environment.

• This article from Science Direct discusses the effect of phthalate contamination in the environment. 

• SLS tends to biodegrade at a rate that means it’s not an immediate and obvious threat to the environment, but ultimately, there needs to be more studies on the subject. 

I, and everyone here at Tangie, believe you deserve better. Better information. Better ingredients. And better products that care for you and the planet.  

Why These Ingredients Are Everywhere  

These chemicals—parabens, phthalates, sulfates—are in so many of our everyday products. Sure, they make your shampoo foam up, keep your lotion shelf-stable for months, or help your dish soap cut through grease like a pro. But here’s the thing: they can also come with some pretty serious health risks. 

Why Are These Chemicals in So Many Products? 

The simple answer? They’re cheap and effective. Parabens prevent bacteria, phthalates give products a lasting scent, and sulfates create that luxurious foam we’ve all been conditioned to love. But just because something works doesn’t mean it’s good for you. 😓 

Companies often use these chemicals because they’re inexpensive and they get the job done. But the health risks simply aren’t worth it. 

Making the Switch to Safer Alternatives 

The good news? You don’t need these harmful chemicals to keep your body and hair clean. There are plenty of non-toxic, safe alternatives available that work just as well, without the risk. 

Of course, I would love for you to choose Tangie products for the switch, but the fact is there are several great companies out there choosing to do the right thing and being transparent about their ingredients and packaging. 

At Tangie, we’re committed to offering products that are free from parabens, phthalates, and sulfates. Check out our line of cleaning and personal care products made with safe, plant-based ingredients, so you can feel good about what you’re putting on your body. 🌸

Other safe swaps you can make include: 

• Switching to sulfate-free shampoos 

• Using fragrance-free products to avoid hidden phthalates 

• Choosing lotions and moisturizers that are paraben-free 

Choose Safer, Healthier Products 

You don’t have to sacrifice your health for the sake of foamy shampoos or long-lasting lotions. Honestly, have you seen a Tangie shampoo bar lather? It’s like a foam party in your shower! )🚿 (Are foam parties still a thing – am I dating myself right now??) 

By choosing products that are free from parabens, phthalates, and sulfates, you’re making a mindful decision that benefits both your health and the environment. 🌍  

If you’re ready to make the switch, check out Tangie Co for clean, natural products that keep harmful chemicals out of your routine.  

Frequently Asked Questions