ABH Favorite Non-Toxic & Low-Tox Personal Care Brands

The word “fragrance” on a label can represent a mix of up to 1,000 different chemicals, many of which are undisclosed and can include allergens, endocrine disruptors, and respiratory irritants. These compounds can trigger allergic reactions, hormonal imbalances, immune stress, and even lower overall immune function.

If anyone in your household struggles with allergies, headaches, asthma, digestive issues, or chronic illness, switching to fragrance-free products (including those without essential oils) is a critical step in creating a healthier environment.

Remove all products that contain synthetic fragrance or non-organic essential oils processed with solvents.

The EWG Skin Deep® database is a powerful tool that helps consumers make informed choices about personal care products by analyzing their ingredients for safety. Created by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), this resource rates thousands of products based on their potential health risks, such as links to allergies, hormone disruption, and cancer. By using the Skin Deep® tool, you can quickly check whether your skincare, cosmetics, or hair care items contain harmful chemicals and choose safer alternatives. It’s an easy way to reduce toxin exposure and prioritize products that align with a wellness-based lifestyle.

Visit https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/ or download the app

Search by ingredient or product name.

Review the ratings: The ingredients are rated 1-10 with 1 being the safest to 10 being the most toxic.

Throw out any products with an ingredient with a rating of 3 or more.

Use products with all ingredients rate 1 or 2 or EWG Veritifed.

Phthalates often don’t appear clearly on labels—they’re usually hidden under vague terms like:

What Phthalates Look Like on Labels:

• Fragrance or Parfum – The most common disguise (phthalates are used to help scent last longer)

• DBP (Dibutyl phthalate) – Often in nail polish

• DEP (Diethyl phthalate) – Used in perfumes, lotions

• DMP (Dimethyl phthalate) – Sometimes in hair spray or deodorant
  

• Unfortunately, companies aren’t required to disclose all fragrance chemicals, so the word “Fragrance” alone is a red flag unless it’s clearly labeled as “phthalate-free” or “natural essential oils only.”

Parabens are widely used as preservatives and are commonly found in:

On labels, look for names like:
methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, ethylparaben.

Not necessarily always—but with caution.

Mineral oil is a petroleum-derived ingredient often used in moisturizers, baby oil, and makeup. It forms a barrier on the skin that helps lock in moisture.

Concerns:

• Potential contamination with harmful substances (like PAHs) if not highly refined.

• Can clog pores and may worsen acne for some.

• Offers no nutritional benefit for the skin (no vitamins, antioxidants, etc.).

• Environmental impact due to petroleum sourcing.

Safer approach:

• Look for "cosmetic grade" or "highly refined" mineral oil if used.

• Prefer plant-based oils (like jojoba, almond, or coconut) for nourishment and safety.

Bottom line: Not the worst offender, but there are better, more skin-friendly alternatives. Avoid it if you prefer non-petroleum, eco-conscious, or nutrient-rich options.

Coal tar dyes (often listed as FD&C or D&C followed by a color and number, like FD&C Red 40) are synthetic colorants derived from petroleum or coal tar and are commonly found in:

Most Common Personal Care Products with Coal Tar Dyes:

1. Lipstick – especially bright reds and pinks

2. Blush – powder and cream types with strong pigment

3. Eyeshadow & Eyeliner – colorful or shimmery shades

4. Shampoo & Conditioner – especially brightly colored or medicated types

5. Body Wash & Bar Soap – fun colors often mean artificial dyes

6. Toothpaste & Mouthwash – dyes added for appearance, not function

7. Nail Polish – deep reds, purples, and other bold colors

8. Hair Dyes – especially those with permanent or long-lasting claims

These dyes can be contaminated with heavy metals and have been linked to skin irritation and long-term health concerns.

• Talc
  – Used for smooth texture and oil absorption
  Concern: May be contaminated with asbestos if not properly purified

• Fragrance / Parfum
  – Added for scent
  Concern: Can include hundreds of hidden chemicals, often linked to hormone disruption and allergic reactions

• Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben, etc.)
  – Used as preservatives
  Concern: Mimic estrogen and may disrupt hormones

• Phthalates (often hidden in fragrance)
  – Used to make products more flexible or long-lasting
  Concern: Strong hormone disruptors linked to reproductive issues

• Silicones (e.g., dimethicone, cyclopentasiloxane)
  – Create a smooth feel and fill in pores/wrinkles
  Concern: Can trap dirt and oil, potentially irritating sensitive or acne-prone skin

• BHA/BHT (Butylated Hydroxyanisole / Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
  – Synthetic preservatives
  Concern: Possible carcinogens and immune system irritants

• Petrolatum / Mineral Oil / Paraffin
  – Used for moisture and barrier effects
  Concern: Can clog pores and may be contaminated with harmful substances if not highly refined

• Synthetic Dyes (FD&C or D&C colors)
  – Add color to makeup
  Concern: Often derived from coal tar; may be contaminated with heavy metals

• Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (e.g., DMDM hydantoin, imidazolidinyl urea)
  – Prevent microbial growth
  Concern: Linked to skin irritation, allergic reactions, and cancer

• Toluene
  – Found in nail products and some long-wear makeup
  Concern: Linked to developmental and immune system toxicity