Harmful Ingredients in Cosmetics: A Scientific Breakdown

Written By Vivance Cosmetics

Debunking Myths

Consumers today are increasingly examining product labels, aiming to choose safe and effective skincare. However, it's important to remember: not all synthetic ingredients are harmful, and not all "natural" ingredients are safe.

This article outlines cosmetic ingredients that may negatively affect the skin when used frequently or in high concentrations.

What Science Actually Says

Much of the fear surrounding cosmetic ingredients stems from outdated or misinterpreted studies.

The real risk lies not in occasional use but in the accumulative effect of regular exposure. Over time, certain ingredients may disrupt the skin’s protective barrier, microbiome, and natural renewal processes.

A woman in a white suit holding a lab test tube rack with red liquid. The image promotes Vivance Cosmetics' scientific approach to skincare and safe ingredients.

Ingredients to Avoid or Minimize

These compounds are known to cause dryness, irritation, or sensitivity—especially with frequent use or on reactive skin. If an ingredient appears in the first 1–5 positions in the INCI list, it is present in higher concentrations and should be considered with caution.

Harsh Surfactants (Cleansing Agents)

These substances can strip the skin’s natural lipids, damage the protective barrier, and lead to dehydration.

  • Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)

  • Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate

  • Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate (ALS)

  • Ammonium Laureth Sulfate (ALES)

  • C12-C14 Olefin Sulfonate

  • Sodium Myristate

  • Sodium Palmitate

  • Sodium Stearate

Not recommended for children’s skincare:

  • Sodium Coco-Sulfate

  • Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate

  • Ammonium Laureth Sulfate

These ingredients may also overstimulate sebum production in oily skin and cause additional irritation on sensitive or inflamed skin.

A safer alternative for sensitive skin types is using oil-based cleansing balms, which gently remove impurities without disrupting the skin barrier.

A close-up of a beige skincare texture with droplets and cream swirls. Text reads: 'SLS and SLES damage the skin’s protective barrier'. Vivance Cosmetics branding on top.

Ingredients in Deodorants and Antiperspirants

These compounds block sweat glands and interfere with the skin's natural detox process. With prolonged use, they can cause irritation or inflammation.

  • Aluminum Chlorohydrate

  • Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex Gly

  • Aluminum Sulfate

  • Aluminum Chloride

  • Zirconium Compounds

Occasional use may be appropriate for events requiring maximum protection, but these ingredients should not be used on a daily basis.

Potentially Irritating UV Filters

Commonly found in chemical sunscreens, these filters may cause allergic reactions or inflammation in individuals with sensitive skin.

  • Oxybenzone

  • Octinoxate

  • Homosalate

  • Avobenzone

  • Octocrylene

  • PABA

Before full application, patch-test any SPF product or consult a dermatologist for recommendations.

A hand applying a streak of SPF cream to a bare leg. Text reads: 'Check the ingredients of your SPF product'.

Problematic Preservatives

Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives:

  • DMDM Hydantoin

  • Imidazolidinyl Urea

  • Diazolidinyl Urea

  • Quaternium-15

  • 2-Bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol (Bronopol)

  • Sodium Hydroxymethylglycinate

Halogenated preservatives:

  • Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)

  • Methylchloroisothiazolinone (CMIT)

These preservatives are known skin sensitizers and may cause contact dermatitis and allergic reactions, particularly with frequent use.

Modern alternatives approved by international certifying bodies (e.g., COSMOS, ECOCERT) include:

  • Ethylhexylglycerin

  • Benzyl Alcohol

A woman with her eyes closed and hand over her forehead, showing a skin reaction on her chin. Text reads: 'Some preservatives cause allergy and irritation'.

Antifungal Agents

  • Triclosan

This ingredient has been associated with microbiome disruption, resistance buildup, and skin imbalance after discontinuation.

Chelating Agents

Used to stabilize formulas and bind metal ions, these substances can interfere with calcium balance and potentially irritate sensitive skin.

  • EDTA and derivatives (Disodium EDTA, Tetrasodium EDTA, Calcium Disodium EDTA, Trisodium EDTA)

Antioxidants

  • Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)

This compound can increase skin permeability and sensitivity, with a potential risk of dermatitis or hives in sensitive individuals.

Glycols in High Concentration

These compounds serve as solvents and humectants, but when used in high concentrations, may trigger irritation or dryness in sensitive skin.

  • Propylene Glycol

  • Butylene Glycol

  • Pentylene Glycol

  • Hexylene Glycol

  • Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)

  • Caprylyl Glycol

  • Dipropylene Glycol

  • Ethoxydiglycol

  • Trimethyl Glycol

Typically safe at low concentrations, they may become problematic when listed among the top ingredients.

Conclusion

Refer to this list when choosing personal care products. It will help you:

  • Make informed ingredient choices

  • Avoid irritation and allergic reactions

  • Protect sensitive or compromised skin barriers

Conscious ingredient selection is the foundation of effective and safe skincare.

Vivance Cosmetics
Next

Solutions for Problem Skin