Here’s the thing: there aren’t any clear or legal definitions as to what constitutes a toxic ingredient. Neither are there specific certifying bodies or watchdog organisations that provide standards on what’s safe to include in products.
For now, the general rule for toxin-free or non-toxic products is that they should not contain any ingredients that are widely recognised as health hazards. This means no skin irritants, suspected or known carcinogens, hormone or endocrine disruptors, or anything that could be bad for your organs, fertility and immune system. You can also look out for certification by established and trusted bodies like EcoCert, USDA Organic, BDIH, Natrue and The Soil Association. These are trusted international agencies that carry out due diligence to ensure that a product’s contents are what it claims.
Read the next slide to find out what are the toxic stuff you should try to avoid.
This story was first published in the November 2017 issue of Her World magazine.
As a consumer, it helps to be aware of the list of 10 things that you shouldn’t find in toxin-free beauty products. They are:-
- Artificial fragrances
- Sodium lauryl/laureth sulfate
- Propylene glycol (PEG)
- Formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers
- Petroleum derivatives, paraffin and mineral oil
- Coal tar derivatives like synthetic colours
- Parabens
- Phthalates
- Triclosan and triclocarban
- Sunscreen chemicals like benzophenone and avobenzone
Want to grab yourself some toxin-free beauty products? Look out for these brands featured here!
Photo: 123rf.com
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Certified organic and cruelty-free, Juice Beauty rocketed to fame after its Green Apple Peel received rave reviews from celebrities and the media. It carries a wide range of skincare products for oil control, brightening and anti-wrinkle concerns, and boasts Hollywood star Gwyneth Paltrow as its creative director of makeup.
Try: Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-wrinkle Moisturiser, $117. From Bud Cosmetics
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Isoi is a Korean natural skincare brand that is free from parabens, synthetic colouring and fragrances, mineral oils and silicones. The key ingredient in its extensive skincare ranges, which include hydrating, pore tightening and brightening lines, is Bulgarian Rose Oil, is said to have 20 times more vitamin A than a tomato and 17 times more vitamin C than a lemon, and suitable for all skin types. Isoi also body care and men’s skincare products, and a skincare line for people with acne-prone skin.
Try: Juice Beauty Stem Cellular Anti-wrinkle Moisturiser, $117. From Bud Cosmetics
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Mukti is an organic, vegan and cruelty-free Australian brand that carries an extensive range of skin, body and hair care products. The active ingredients in the products are sourced and extracted from Australia’s native plants, and supports the indigenous communities that harvest them. The ingredients are said to be extra potent because the plants have evolved to protect themselves from the oxidative stress and sun-induced free radicals present in Australia’s extreme climate conditions.
Try: Mukti Rosehip Eye Gel, $63. From Bud Cosmetics
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Suki’s products are tested safe for pregnant women, nursing mothers and babies. The American natural skincare brand carries face and body care products free from allergens, parabens, phthalates, petrochemicals, synthetic fragrances and dyes, and sulfates, and also sell makeup brushes, applicators and wash cloths. They are also cruelty-free, with the only animal ingredient, 100 per cent organic beeswax, sourced from farms that do not harm bees or burn hives.
Try: Suki Radical Results Youth Serum, $83. From Pure Tincture
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Singapore-based Frankskincare uses 100 per cent certified organic ingredients in its skincare products, which are made in small batches to ensure quality and freshness. They are also free from synthetic chemicals and formulated with Singapore’s living conditions – hot and humid weather and constant exposure to air-conditioning – in mind.
Try: Frankskincare Juicier Luxury Face Oil, $58. From www.frankskincare.com
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Ilia is a Canada-born, now-US-based makeup brand that focuses on lip care products. The brand first launched with its iconic Tinted Lip Conditioners in six shades, and the range has since grown to 17 shades, and expanded to carry a full range of makeup products including foundation, concealers, eyeshadows, blushers, highlighters and makeup brushes.
Try: Ilia Beauty Balmy Days Lip Balm, $46. From Pure Tincture
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100% Pure is a US brand that carries an extensive range of skincare, makeup and haircare products. From foundations to eyeliners and lipsticks, this cruelty-free brand uses fruit and vegetable pigments in its cosmetics products, while its skincare is formulated with high-performing antioxidants, naturally occurring vitamins and essential oils.
Try: 100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Pomegranate Oil Anti Aging Lipstick, $48.50. From Bud Cosmetics
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Swedish certified organic brand Estelle & Thild has four skincare ranges – Biocalm for sensitive skin, Biohydrate to moisturise, Biodefense as an age-preventative range and Super Bioactive, an anti-ageing range. It also carries body care products that include hand creams and lotions, and body scrubs, wash and oils, makeup (liquid foundation, face powder, eyeshadows, lip gloss, lip balms, mascara and makeup brushes), and even diaper cream for babies.
Try: Estelle & Thild Biohydrate All-in-One Tinted Moisturiser, $63.
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