8 Toxic Skincare Ingredients to Avoid for a Healthy Glow
“Watch out for these sneaky toxic skincare ingredients that could be ruining your glow and harming your health!”
If you’re like most skincare lovers, there’s a high chance that you have a skincare product you trust with your entire chest. A moisturizer you never go a day without. A face cleanser or serum that is your ride or die.
But what if I told you that your most loved skincare product might be doing more harm than good?
Yes, it’s unsettling—but true. Many conventional skincare products on the market today are packed with ingredients that seem effective on the surface but can have long-term harmful effects on your skin and overall health.
These products may give temporary results like glow or softness. But behind the scenes, they might be disrupting your skin barrier, weakening your skin’s natural defenses, and even allowing toxins to seep in.
Researchers have linked some of these ingredients to hormonal imbalances, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and in severe cases, an increased risk of certain cancers.
The scary part? Companies often don’t clearly label these substances making it hard for everyday users to spot them.
And in Africa, where regulations around skincare formulations and product imports are often relaxed or inconsistently enforced, the chances of encountering these toxic ingredients are even higher.
This makes it important for us to look beyond the label and pay attention to not just what we apply on our skin, but also what we put into our bodies to support our skin health from within.
That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive, expert-backed guide to help you identify and eliminate toxic skincare ingredients from your routine.
Whether you’re embracing organic beauty, or just looking to make informed choices, here are 8 harmful ingredients you should never ignore.
1. Hydroquinone: One of the Major Toxic Skincare Ingredients
Hydroquinone is commonly used in products marketed for treating hyperpigmentation, dark spots, and melasma. It works by decreasing the production of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color.
Why it is harmful:
Hydroquinone can cause exogenous ochronosis (bluish-black skin discoloration) with prolonged use, especially in darker skin tones. It can also lead to contact dermatitis, redness, and skin irritation. More concerning, some hydroquinone products (especially unregulated ones) may contain mercury or other toxic compounds.
The U.S. FDA has banned over-the-counter sale of hydroquinone-containing products since 2020, citing safety concerns due to long-term use and contamination risks.
“Hydroquinone should only be used under a dermatologist’s supervision. Prolonged or unsupervised use can lead to severe side effects like ochronosis, especially in individuals with darker skin.”— Dr. Michelle Henry, Board-Certified Dermatologist, Clinical Instructor at Weill Cornell Medical College.
Safer alternatives:
Niacinamide, kojic acid, azelaic acid, alpha-arbutin, and licorice root extract all offer brightening benefits with significantly lower risks.
2. Parabens: Another of the Toxic Skincare Ingredients
Parabens such as methylparaben, ethylparaben, and butylparaben are preservatives used to prevent bacteria and mold in products.
Why they’re harmful:
Parabens are endocrine disruptors, meaning they mimic estrogen in the body. Although present in small amounts, studies show they may accumulate in the body over time.
Scientists have detected parabens in breast cancer tissue, and also that they can contribute to hormone-related cancers and fertility issues.
The European Commission has banned the use of certain parabens in cosmetics for children under 3 and in products that remain on the skin.
“While the science on parabens is ongoing, many dermatologists recommend avoiding them—especially in leave-on products—due to their potential to mimic estrogen.”— Dr. Debra Jaliman, Dermatologist and Assistant Professor at Mount Sinai.
Safer alternatives:
Vitamin E (tocopherol), sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, phenoxyethanol (in low concentrations), or rosemary extract.
3. Phthalates
Phthalates (like diethyl phthalate or DEP) are used in cosmetics to make fragrances last longer and to soften formulas. They’re often not listed individually and are instead hidden under “fragrance” or “parfum.”
Why they’re harmful:
Studies have linked phthalates to reproductive toxicity, reduced sperm count, early puberty in girls, and thyroid dysfunction. Long-term exposure to phthalates can also increase the risk of developmental issues in children.
The European Union has banned several types of phthalates in cosmetics, and the EWG strongly advises consumers to avoid fragrance unless the brand discloses its components.
“Phthalates are concerning because they’re endocrine disruptors and can be absorbed through the skin. Fragrance formulas are considered trade secrets, so companies often don’t disclose them.”— Dr. Ava Shamban, Board-Certified Dermatologist, Founder of SkinFive.
Safer alternatives:
Opt for fragrance-free or essential oil-based scents. Look for labels that say “phthalate-free” or “transparent fragrance.”
4. Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
Formaldehyde is used directly or released by ingredients like DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, imidazolidinyl urea, and diazolidinyl urea to preserve products.
Why it’s harmful:
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies formaldehyde as a known human carcinogen. Formaldehyde causes allergic reactions, asthma, skin irritation, and over time, increase the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer.
Though the U.S. allows limited use in cosmetics, several countries, including Japan and Sweden, have banned formaldehyde in personal care items.
“Formaldehyde is particularly dangerous when inhaled in large amounts, such as in hair straightening treatments. But even topical exposure over time can sensitize the skin and cause long-term health issues.”— Dr. Whitney Bowe, Dermatologist and Clinical Assistant Professor, Mount Sinai Hospital.
Safer alternatives:
Phenoxyethanol (when used responsibly), potassium sorbate, and certified organic preservatives.
5. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) and Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
SLS and SLES are surfactants found in cleansers, shampoos, and toothpaste that create foam and remove oils.
Why they’re harmful:
SLS is a known skin irritant, especially for people with sensitive skin or eczema. SLES is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen according to the U.S. National Toxicology Program.
These ingredients strip the skin’s natural oils, causing dryness, irritation, and potential long-term damage to the skin barrier.
‘SLS and SLES can trigger flare-ups in people with eczema or rosacea. They’re best avoided in facial skincare or baby products.”— Dr. Sandra Lee (Dr. Pimple Popper), Board-Certified Dermatologist.
Safer alternatives to these toxic skincare ingredients:
Coco-glucoside, decyl glucoside, lauryl glucoside, or sodium cocoyl isethionate are gentle, plant-based surfactants.
6. Triclosan
Triclosan is a part of the toxic skincare ingredients to avoid. It was once widely used in antibacterial soaps, toothpaste, and acne products for its bacteria-fighting properties.
Why it is harmful:
Research has linked triclosan to hormone disruption, thyroid dysfunction, and antibiotic resistance. The U.S. FDA banned triclosan from over-the-counter antibacterial hand soaps in 2016 due to safety concerns and lack of evidence of superior effectiveness.
“There’s no added benefit of triclosan in consumer soaps, and its health risks far outweigh any potential gain.”— FDA Official Statement, 2016 Rule on Antibacterial Products.
Safer alternatives:
Use regular soap and water or products with tea tree oil, neem, or honey are all effective natural antibacterials.
7. Mercury
Some manufacturers illegally add mercury to skin-lightening creams to reduce pigmentation by blocking melanin production.
Why it is harmful:
Mercury is a potent neurotoxin that can damage the nervous system, kidneys, and liver. It is absorbed through the skin and affect unborn children during pregnancy. Although banned in most countries, regulators still encounter mercury-laced products in unregulated imports.
WHO lists mercury as one of the top ten chemicals of public health concern, especially due to its widespread use in unregulated cosmetic products.
“Exposure to mercury in cosmetics poses serious health risks. The danger is heightened because these products are often used long-term without users knowing the risk.”— World Health Organization (WHO), Mercury in Skin Lightening Products Report.
Safer alternatives:
Use regulated, dermatologist-recommended brightening products. Look for brands certified by NAFDAC, FDA, or EU Cosmetics Regulation.
8. Mineral Oils
Mineral oil is a byproduct of petroleum used in moisturizers and ointments to create a protective barrier on the skin.
Why it’s controversial:
While regulators consider pharmaceutical-grade mineral oil safe and non-toxic, cosmetic-grade mineral oil can contain impurities (PAHs) that may be carcinogenic. It is also comedogenic, potentially worsening acne and preventing the skin from breathing.
Some environmental concerns also arise from its non-renewable fossil fuel origin.
“While purified mineral oil is safe, I don’t recommend it for acne-prone or oily skin because it can clog pores and exacerbate breakouts.”— Dr. Rachel Nazarian, Dermatologist, Schweiger Dermatology Group.
Safer alternatives to these toxic skincare ingredients:
Plant-based oils like squalane, jojoba oil, argan oil, and rosehip oil are lightweight, non-comedogenic, and eco-friendly.
Protect Your Skin From These Toxic Skincare Ingredients
You don’t need a chemistry degree to have radiant, healthy skin. What you need is to always read labels, do your research, and choose products that prioritize safety over hype.
Switching to clean, non-toxic skincare protects not just your face but your entire body …from hormonal balance to long-term wellness.
- Look for transparent brands that share full ingredient lists.
- Choose fragrance-free or essential oil-scented products
- Avoid harsh chemicals in daily-use items like cleansers, lotions, and serums
Choose organic-health-chewable-natural-vitamin e.It is the best and the most convenient way to maintain your skin health from within.
These chewables are gentle on the stomach, easy to take, and packed with antioxidant power making them ideal for busy lifestyles or those struggling with nutrient gaps.
Remember: long-term beauty starts with healthy choices.