PEG’s
It very much depends on the manufacturing process, but in some instances, PEGs may be contaminated with cancer-causing ingredients. While carcinogenic (i.e cancer-causing) are the primary concern, research has shown that some of the contaminate found in PEGs have been known to harm the nervous system. PEGS also functions as a “penetration enhancer,” this means that they increase the permeability of the skin to allow greater absorption of the product — including harmful ingredients that can be present in the formulation

FORMALDEHYDE
Formaldehyde is a highly toxic systemic poison and is released into the air by a number of cosmetic preservatives,. Formaldehydes are classified as ‘carcinogenic by the agency for toxic substances and disease registration. Very low concentrations of formaldehyde have been shown to trigger dermatitis.

PETROCHEMICALS
Include petroleum, paraffin oil, mineral oil and Benzen, petroleum-based products have a higher molecular weight and are considered comedogenic, which means it can clog your pores and increase the risk of acne and blackheads. when included in hair care formulations they can inhibit water absorption and may also have a disruptive effect on the scalp which could inhibit healthy hair growth. When petrochemicals aren’t properly refined, they can be contaminated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), a class of chemicals linked to cancer. Unfortunately, there’s no way to know if a chemical has been properly refined unless the manufacturer requests its full refinement history, so it’s virtually impossible for consumers to know if their petrochemical products are clean or contaminated.

PARABENS
Usually listed on cosmetic labels as methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, or butylparaben, parabens are a common synthetic preservative in beauty products. In 2004, Dr Philippa Darbre, a research scientist at the University of Reading in the UK, published a pioneering study that showed high concentrations of parabens in human breast tumours. Continued use or over exposure to parabens has been linked to hormone-disruptive activities and skin irritation. There are also many studies that suggest parabens are carcinogenic.

PETROCHEMICALS
According to the Environmental Working Group, SLS, and SLES, are toxic ingredients which present a “moderate hazard” that has been linked to cancer, neurotoxicity, organ toxicity, skin irritation and endocrine disruption. SLS and SLES are also very strong detergents and overly harsh on Afro-textured hair which can lead to dry and brittle hair.

SYNTHETIC DYES
The toxins that artificial colours leave on your skin greatly increase your risk of sensitivity and irritation Thyroid tumours, allergic reactions, hyperactivity, and kidney tumours. Many artificial dyes have been banned from use in food because of the health problems they cause, unfortunately, there are only a few restrictions on the types of dyes that can be used in personal care products.