Birth defects, such as pre-term birth, low birth weight and abnormal development, have been scientifically linked to a variety of ingredients that are widely used in cosmetics. Some do their damage when applied during conception and pregnancy but it is unknown how long they remain in the body, potentially affecting long-term personal health as well as subsequent births. The relative toxicity of these ingredients depends on their concentration in the product and how much of it is applied. Knowing that the FDA does not regulate the concentration of these potentially toxic ingredients, we advocate avoiding them altogether. Why chance it?
These are the most commonly found birth defect-associated cosmetic ingredients along with the basics of what you’ll want to know about them.
Dibutyl Phthalate
(DBP, Diethyl Phthalates, Phthalates)
Banned from cosmetic formulations in the European Union.
Most commonly found in nail polish and fragrance, phthalates are fragrance-enhancing plasticizers. Phthalates, listed under various names, are also found in many other products, including skin care, antiperspirants and make-up. Phthalates, when applied as nail polish, are absorbed through our nails. This water-soluble component also dissolves out and is potentially absorbed through our skin when we wash our hands, prepare our children’s food or place our hands in water.
PEG
(Polyethylene Glycol, Ceteareth Glycol)
Find PEGs in every class of personal care product, from shampoos and sunscreen, to face and body lotions and makeup. Polyethylene Glycol is a chemical compound made by adding glycols to polyethylene (aka plastic) to make liquefied plastic of varying molecular weights (i.e. PEG-6, PEG-75, PEG-100). They are often “attached” to other chemicals such as PEG-100 Stearate and are used to help ingredients blend together, give products a smooth and silky feel and increase product absorption. They have been found toxic in varying degrees – from highly toxic to non-toxic – based on their chemical makeup. Some release 1,4 Dioxane (a carcinogen) while others have a high probability of being contaminated with heavy metals such as lead and mercury and can cause birth defects. While the most toxic PEGs are PEG-4, -6, -7, -8, -32, -75, -100, -150, -14M and -20M, all PEGs are plastics derived from petrochemicals and probably shouldn’t be in or on our bodies at all.
Fragrance
This vague and unregulated ingredient term legally includes such varied components as synthetic fragrance, essential oils and preservatives. When appearing on its own in a list of ingredients, Fragrance (aka Parfum) may contain any number of potentially toxic ingredients. One of these, Dibutyl Phthalate is often used as a fragrance extender and has been associated with birth defects: If specific Fragrance components aren’t sub-listed, it may be present.
All Spa Heroes products are free of Villain Ingredients. We support Superpower Ingredients that nurture skin and beauty toward optimal health and function and never compromise your wellbeing. To help you shop for the smartest skin, body, sun and hair care, use our FREE Spa Heroes Pocket Guide to Ingredient Intelligence, a list of the most commonly found Villains and the most effective Superpowers.
