Shopping for holiday beauty products for friends, family, or that special someone? Before grabbing the first festive product that catches your eye, take a closer look at the skincare label. Not all skincare products are created equally, and some may contain hidden ingredients that can do more harm than good. By understanding what’s inside, you can gift skincare products that are safe, clean, and loved by the skin!
Let’s dive into a few commonly overlooked ingredients in holiday beauty products, so you can avoid gifting toxic surprises.
Here’s your guide to navigating ingredient labels like a pro!
Commonly Overlooked Ingredients
When shopping for holiday beauty this year, start with the label. Ingredient labels list components in descending order of concentration, so pay attention to the top ingredients and avoid the following:
Preservatives
Preservatives are everywhere — in perfumes, nail polish, moisturizers, lotions, and cleansers — helping extend product shelf life by preventing bacteria growth. Unfortunately, they’re known to cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Some are harsher than others, and certain preservatives can strip the skin of its natural oils.
Plus, these sneaky preservatives often go by multiple names! Look out for the following on ingredient lists:
- Formaldehyde (Rated 8)
- Methylparaben (Rated 8)
- Propylparaben (Rated 8)
- Isobutylparaben (Rated 9)
- Sodium hydroxymethyl glycinate (Rated 8)
Studies on parabens and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives have indicated potential endocrine-disrupting effects and links to skin irritation. For more details on preservative safety, check out this study on parabens in cosmetics.
Artificial Colours
Artificial colours are often used to give holiday skincare products a festive look, but they provide zero benefits for your skin. In fact, they’re often irritants that can cause redness, dryness, and irritation. Here are some artificial colourings to avoid:
Instead, look for plant-based colourings like turmeric, green tea extract, or beetroot powder, which can be safer options for sensitive skin.
Phthalates
Phthalates are chemicals that may disrupt the endocrine system and, in some cases, are carcinogenic. One big issue with phthalates? They’re rarely labelled as such. Instead, look for acronyms like:
Research has linked phthalates to potential health risks, including endocrine disruption. Phthalates can also be found in synthetic fragrances and even product packaging. Switching from plastic to glass packaging and avoiding synthetic fragrances are easy ways to reduce exposure. For more on phthalates, check out our blog on phthalates in personal care products.
Tips for Avoiding Toxic Ingredients
Navigating skincare labels can feel overwhelming, especially during the holidays when there’s no shortage of options! Here are a few extra tips to help you find clean, non-toxic skincare gifts:
1. Switch to Clean or Organic Ingredients
Clean and organic ingredients tend to be gentler on the skin and may even provide more benefits when used consistently. Look for natural powerhouses like honey, aloe vera, tea tree oil, and coconut oil. Research supports the benefits of honey and aloe vera for their hydrating and anti-inflammatory properties.
2. Always Read the Label
Even brands marketed as “natural” or “organic” may contain synthetic ingredients, so it’s essential to double-check the label. Look for labels marked “fragrance-free” or “phthalate-free” to find cleaner options, and verify claims using a reputable source. Our Think Dirty Verified Brands List is a great resource to help you get started.
3. Skip Synthetic Fragrances
Synthetic fragrances add nothing of value to your skincare routine and can often cause redness, rashes, and irritation. When possible, choose products labelled “fragrance-free” or those using natural fragrances from essential oils and botanical extracts. Synthetic fragrances can contain hidden phthalates, which are linked to endocrine disruption. For more on synthetic fragrance concerns, check out what the FDA has to say on fragrance allergens.
4. Simplify Your Skincare Routine
In skincare, less can sometimes mean more. By using fewer products, you reduce the number of potentially toxic ingredients on your skin. Consider a minimal routine with just the essentials: a high-quality cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. Build from there based on specific skin concerns, and remember that consistency is key. Over time, you’ll find that a simple approach can lead to healthier, happier skin.
Use The Think Dirty App
Don’t let hidden nasties ruin your gift-giving season! With the Think Dirty app, you can scan products in-store to learn more about their ingredients and see their safety ratings. Our app empowers you to make mindful skincare choices, ensuring that every product you give (or keep!) aligns with your health goals.
Download the Think Dirty App today and join the community of ingredient-conscious Dirty Thinkers who put health first. With Think Dirty, a cleaner, safer holiday shopping experience is just a scan away!
Disclosure: We are a professional review and product rating website and mobile app that receives compensation from the companies whose products we review and rate. We are independently owned and the opinions expressed here are our own interpretations of a trusted source.
Holiday Beauty: How to Spot Toxins on Skincare Labels was originally published in Think Dirty on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.