Parabens, Phthalates, and Sulfates: What You Need to Know 

Looking through my collection of personal care items 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! 💚  

At Tangie, we do the deep digging into these chemicals so you don’t have to.  

Let’s Break It Down  

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.  

• This article talks about parabens causing water contamination. 

• This article 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 actually 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’s shop for clean, natural products that keep harmful chemicals out of your routine.  

Xo Angie Ringler