If you’re focused on buying organic and healthy products, there is a long list of EWG ingredients to avoid. In today’s world, consumers like you and me are becoming increasingly conscious of the ingredients used in the products they use on a daily basis.
As one of the most valuable resources for public health, EWG understands the importance of doing expert research into every product we consume. Surprisingly, there are many ingredients that are outrightly harmful to us. But even more surprisingly, we can make a difference when we know what to avoid. Like making your own homemade lip balm!
So in this article, we’re diving into what EWG ingredients to avoid can make your life healthier and fuller. For those of you hearing EWG for the first time, let’s have a quick recap of what the acronym stands for…
Who is EWG?
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a prominent non-profit organization in the United States that focuses on promoting public health and environmental protection.
Established in 1993, the EWG has become a leading authority on the potential health risks associated with consumer products and their impact on the environment. They are responsible for an array of elements such as:
- Conducts research on toxic chemicals, pesticides, air and water pollution, and consumer product safety.
- Maintains databases such as the Skin Deep Cosmetics Database and the Food Scores Database to assess the safety and potential health effects of various products and ingredients.
- Provides accessible information to consumers about potential risks associated with consumer products, helping them make informed choices.
- Raises awareness about environmental and health issues through reports, findings, and educational resources.
- Advocates for policy changes to protect public health and the environment, working to improve regulations and standards.
- Engages in lobbying efforts and collaborates with lawmakers to promote policies that promote public health and environmental protection.
- Empowers individuals to live healthier lives and make choices that support a healthier environment.
- Promotes transparency in labeling and encourages companies to produce safer and more environmentally friendly products.
Recently, some light has been shed on the credibility of EWG research since they are claimed to be exaggerated, dramatic, and misleading. The reason why is that the organic food industry directly funds this research and proving synthetic materials as carcinogens only benefits the industry. We do not believe that this is a reason to ignore the lists of EWG ingredients to avoid as it sounds like only one side wants to be able to fund research.
10 EWG Ingredients To Avoid
EWG has a long list of toxic chemicals they want users to avoid for a healthier life. While it’s not possible to tick off all of them in a single article, we’ll check out the top 10 EWG ingredients to avoid.
Propyl Parabens
Propyl parabens are a type of preservative commonly used in various personal care products, cosmetics, and even some food products. The EWG has expressed concerns about propyl parabens due to potential health risks associated with their use.
Research suggests that propyl parabens, like other parabens, have endocrine-disrupting properties. They can mimic estrogen in the body and interfere with hormone function. Estrogenic activity has been linked to various health issues, including reproductive problems, hormonal imbalances, and potential impacts on breast tissue.
Common personal care and cosmetic products that may contain propyl parabens, the first in our list of EWG ingredients to avoid, includes the following products:
- Lotions and creams,
- Shampoos and conditioners,
- Moisturizers and facial cleansers,
- Make-up products such as foundation, mascara, and lipsticks,
- Sunscreen and other sun care products.
Phthalates
Phthalates are a group of chemical compounds commonly used in various consumer products, including plastics, cosmetics, fragrances, and personal care items. The EWG has expressed concerns about phthalates due to potential health risks associated with their use.
Research suggests that phthalates have endocrine-disrupting properties, meaning they can interfere with hormone function in the body. They have been shown to mimic or block hormones, particularly estrogen, and testosterone, which can lead to adverse effects on reproductive health and development.
Exposure to phthalates has been associated with a range of health issues, including reproductive abnormalities, decreased fertility, hormone-related cancers, and potential impacts on fetal development.
Some studies have even suggested links between phthalate exposure and respiratory problems, neurodevelopmental disorders, and obesity.
Now, where are phthalates found in terms of regular products you’re already using? Our second in our list of EWG ingredients to avoid, phthalates, can be found in a wide array of products, including:
- Plastics such as PVC products, vinyl flooring, shower curtains, and plastic food containers.
- Personal care products like fragrances, deodorants, lotions, hair sprays, and nail polishes.
- Cosmetics such as perfumes, foundations, lipsticks, and eyeshadows.
- Children’s toys including plastic toys, especially made of soft or flexible materials.
- Household products such as air fresheners, cleaning products, and vinyl upholstery.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a pungent odor and is classified as a known human carcinogen by reputable organizations such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the National Toxicology Program (NTP). It is commonly used as a preservative in various consumer products and can be released as a byproduct of certain chemical reactions.
Research has shown that formaldehyde exposure is associated with several health risks. Prolonged or repeated exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to an increased risk of nasopharyngeal cancer and respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. It can also cause skin irritation, and eye irritation, and is known to be a potent allergen.
Due to these health concerns, the EWG strongly discourages the use of formaldehyde and preservatives that release formaldehyde in consumer products.
They recommend avoiding products containing formaldehyde-releasing preservatives (FRPs) such as DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea, and quaternium-15.
Many everyday necessities, unfortunately, include the third on our list of EWG ingredients to avoid. Things that have formaldehyde or preservatives that exude the chemical include:
- Personal care products: Such as shampoos, conditioners, hair styling products, body washes, and moisturizers.
- Cosmetics: Including nail polishes, nail hardeners, eyelash glues, and some makeup products.
- Household cleaners: Some cleaning products, especially those labeled as disinfectants or sanitizers.
- Building materials: Certain types of pressed wood products, such as furniture, cabinets, and flooring.
- Textiles: Some wrinkle-resistant fabrics, including certain clothing items, bedding, and curtains.
Triclosan
Triclosan is an antimicrobial agent that has been widely used in consumer products, such as antibacterial soaps, toothpaste, and deodorants. And yes, it has some serious threat to your health, especially if you’re aiming for any sustainable development goals (SDG).
Research has proven that triclosan may disrupt hormone function and contribute to antibiotic resistance. Studies have indicated that triclosan has the potential to interfere with thyroid hormone regulation and may impact reproductive hormones.
Additionally, triclosan exposure has been associated with changes in microbial communities, which could contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
The EWG has raised concerns about triclosan’s potential impact on human health and the environment. While FDA banned the use of triclosan in over-the-counter antibacterial soaps in 2016, it is still permitted in other products, such as toothpaste. The EWG recommends avoiding products containing triclosan to minimize potential risks.
Our fourth on our list of EWG ingredients to avoid is Triclosan, which can be found in various consumer products, including:
- Antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers,
- Toothpaste and mouthwash,
- Deodorants and antiperspirants,
- Shaving products, such as shaving creams and gels,
- Cosmetics, including certain makeup products and facial cleansers.
Retinyl palmitate and retinol
Retinyl palmitate and retinol are forms of vitamin A commonly used in skincare and cosmetic products. If you’re like me who loves skincare, you must be already familiar with retinol products that are circulating markets for high prices and being approved by viral dermatologists on social media.
Let me take you in on a secret!
According to research, retinyl palmitate and retinol may accelerate skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer when applied topically and exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In easy words, you might be lovingly absorbing a carcinogen into your skin willingly!
A study conducted by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) found an increased incidence of skin tumors in mice exposed to the combination of retinyl palmitate and UV radiation. This has led to concerns about their safety when used in sunscreens and other products intended for sun-exposed skin.
Keep in mind, Retinol and retinyl palmitate have shown benefits in skincare only when used appropriately and under controlled conditions.
So which products may contain the fifth of our EWG ingredients to avoid? Retinyl palmitate and retinol can be found in various skincare and cosmetic products, including:
- Anti-aging creams and serums,
- Facial moisturizers,
- Eye creams and treatments,
- Acne treatments,
- Sunscreens and sun care products.
Oxybenzone
Oxybenzone is a chemical compound commonly used as an ultraviolet (UV) filter in sunscreens and other personal care products.
Oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and act as an endocrine disruptor, mimicking or interfering with hormone function in the body. Studies have shown associations between oxybenzone exposure and disruptions in reproductive hormones, as well as potential impacts on thyroid function.
EWG also raised concerns about oxybenzone’s potential role in coral reef damage. Research has suggested that oxybenzone can contribute to coral bleaching, impair coral growth, and negatively impact marine ecosystems.
Oxybenzone can be found in various personal care products, including:
- Sunscreens and sunblocks,
- Moisturizers and lotions with SPF protection,
- Lip balms and chapsticks with sun protection,
- Makeup products with added sun protection.
To reduce exposure to oxybenzone, the sixth on our list of EWG ingredients to avoid, choose sunscreens labeled as oxybenzone-free or using mineral-based sunscreens that contain ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are considered safer alternatives.
Hydroquinone
Have you ever used one of those skin-lightening skincare products? Well, you might have already been in contact with hydroquinone! Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent commonly used in skincare products to treat hyperpigmentation and uneven skin tone.
Research suggests that hydroquinone may pose risks when used in high concentrations or inappropriately.
Studies have shown that long-term and high-dose exposure to hydroquinone in animal models can lead to adverse effects, such as skin irritation, cytotoxicity, and potential carcinogenicity. However, it’s important to note that most studies demonstrating these effects have used much higher concentrations than those typically found in over-the-counter skincare products.
Hydroquinone is primarily present in skincare products designed to lighten skin or treat hyperpigmentation, including:
- Whitening creams and serums,
- Spot correctors and brightening treatments,
- Fade creams and lotions.
While hydroquinone, the seventh on our list of EWG ingredients to avoid, is considered safe and effective when used as directed and under the guidance of a healthcare professional, its use should be monitored, especially at higher concentrations.
It is advisable to follow the instructions on the product label and consult with a dermatologist before incorporating hydroquinone-based products into a skincare routine.
Mineral oil
Mineral oils, derived from petroleum, have been the subject of concerns raised by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) due to potential health risks associated with their use in personal care products.
Research suggests that certain types of mineral oils, such as highly refined mineral oils (HRMOs) and untreated or mildly treated mineral oils (U/M/MTOs), may be contaminated with impurities, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).
PAHs are known to be potentially harmful to human health and have been associated with various adverse effects, including skin irritation, allergies, and potential carcinogenicity.
While the exact health risks of mineral oils, the eighth on our list of EWG ingredients to avoid, are still a subject of scientific debate, some studies have raised concerns about potential long-term effects.
However, it’s important to consider that the research often focuses on high-exposure scenarios or industrial settings rather than the levels typically found in cosmetic products like lotions and lip balms!
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) are surfactants commonly used in personal care products, such as:
- Shampoos and conditioners,
- Body washes and shower gels,
- Facial cleansers and scrubs,
- Toothpaste and mouthwash,
- Foaming cleansers and bubble baths.
Research suggests that SLS and SLES can cause skin and eye irritation, especially in individuals with sensitive skin. They have the potential to disrupt the skin’s natural moisture balance and strip away its protective oils, leading to dryness and irritation.
Plus, some studies have indicated that SLS and SLES can penetrate the skin and may have the potential to interact with other chemicals, resulting in further adverse effects.
You can also protect yourself from these EWG ingredients to avoid by opting for sulfate-free or milder alternatives. These alternatives can include:
- Coco-Glucoside,
- Decyl Glucoside,
- Sodium Cocoyl Isethionate.
Siloxanes
Siloxanes, specifically certain types of cyclic siloxanes such as D4 (octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane) and D5 (decamethylcyclopentasiloxane), have raised concerns due to potential health and environmental risks associated with their use.
Research suggests that D4 and D5 siloxanes have the potential to bioaccumulate and persist in the environment. They are also known to be readily absorbed through the skin and have been detected in human tissues and breast milk.
However, the health effects of siloxanes on humans are still a subject of ongoing scientific debate.
Some studies have suggested that D4 and D5 siloxanes may exhibit endocrine-disrupting properties, potentially interfering with hormone function. They have been linked to reproductive and developmental toxicity in animal studies, although their relevance to human health is still uncertain.
The tenth on our list of EWG ingredients to avoid, Siloxanes, can be found in various personal care and cosmetic products, including:
- Hair care products such as shampoos, conditioners, and hair styling products.
- Skincare products including moisturizers, creams, and anti-aging serums.
- Cosmetics such as some foundations, primers, and makeup products, especially those with a silicone-based formulation.
- Personal care products including certain deodorants, antiperspirants, and body lotions.
Final Thoughts
By familiarizing ourselves with the EWG ingredients to avoid, we can make more informed decisions about the products we bring into our lives. Armed with knowledge and awareness, we have the power to prioritize our health and contribute to a safer, more sustainable future.
So with these EWG ingredients to avoid, let’s save our families and planets– one ingredient at a time! Please comment below with your thoughts on these, did you know these were in these everyday products?
