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Best Non-Toxic BB Cream in 2024
Updated:
Nov 18, 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
+ 1 more
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
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What you should know when choosing non-toxic bb cream on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
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Find Non-Toxic BB Cream
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Perfecting BB Beauty Balm Natural Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 30 - Andalou Naturals
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$12.69
Product Details
- Formulated with fruit stem cell complex and non-nano zinc oxide for broad-spectrum sun protection with a natural mineral tint.
- Enriched with super fruit antioxidants, Resveratrol, and CoQ10 to boost dermal vitality.
- Self-adjusting natural tint color for flawless coverage and a radiant finish.
- Suitable for daily use, alone or under makeup; apply liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- 98% nature-derived and vegetarian ingredients, with a large offering of vegan products.
- Free from gluten and cruelty; does not test on animals.
- Products are non-GMO, aligning with core brand values of sourcing superior non-GMO ingredients.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Lightweight
- Sheer
Cons Mentioned
- Inconsistent
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Zinc Oxide 20.0%, Inactive Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Purified Water (Aqua), Caprylic/Capric Triglycerides, Vegetable Glycerin, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Polyglyceryl-2 Oleate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Polyglyceryl-2 Stearate, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Dimethicone, Magnesium Sulfate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Malus Domestica Fruit Stem Cells, Solar Vitis Fruit Stem Cells, Bioactive Berry Complex, Sodium Hyaluronate, Resveratrol, Ubiquinone (Coq10), Borago Officinalis (Borage) Seed Oil, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Leaf Extract, Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract, Tocopherol, Iron Oxides, Phenethyl Alcohol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Complexion Rescue Tinted Moisturizer for Face with SPF 30 + Hyaluronic Acid - bareMinerals
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$39.00
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Smooth
- Lightweight
Cons Mentioned
- Pricey
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide %; Inactive Ingredients: Water, Coconut Alkanes, Propanediol, Squalane, Trehalose, Isostearic Acid, Glycerin, Silica, Agar, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Globularia Cordifolia Callus Culture Extract, Coco-Caprylate/ Caprate, Butylene Glycol, Lauroyl Lysine, Sodium Hyaluronate, Succinoglycan, Polysorbate 60, Cellulose Gum, Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate/Succinate, Sorbitan Sesquiisostearate, Magnesium Stearate, Magnesium Hydroxide, Magnesium Chloride, Potassium Chloride, Calcium Chloride, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol, May Contain: Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Clean Matte BB Cream - Covergirl
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$6.45
Product Details
- Oil-free matte formula
- Won't clog pores
- Evens skin tones and hides blemishes
- Water-based foundation
- Goes on easily and blends perfectly
- 100% cruelty-free
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Natural
- Lightweight
Cons Mentioned
- Settling
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Cyclopentasiloxane, Propylene Glycol, Talc, Dimethicone, Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate, Sodium Chloride, Peg/Ppg-18/18 Dimethicone, Pvp, Benzyl Alcohol, Silica, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylene/Methacrylate Copolymer, Synthetic Beeswax, Trihydroxystearin, Methicone, Sodium Benzoate, Synthetic Wax, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Cetyl Peg/Ppg-10/1 Dimethicone, Hexyl Laurate, Isopropyl Titanium Triisostearate, Ethylene Brassylate, Polyethylene, [May Contain/+/-:Titanium Dioxide (Ci 77891), Iron Oxides (Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499)]
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
True Match Nude Hyaluronic Tinted Serum Foundation - Loreal Paris
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.18
Product Details
- Formulated with Hyaluronic Acid to leave skin smoother and more hydrated.
- Contains luminous mineral pigments for lightweight coverage and to brighten the complexion.
- Vegan and formulated without parabens and fragrances.
- Dermatologically tested and non-comedogenic.
- Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Combines makeup and skincare.
- Available in 14 nude, radiant shades.
- Designed to blend seamlessly with a variety of skin tones.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Buildable
- Natural
- Lightweight
Cons Mentioned
- Drying
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: G2047128 Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Isododecane, Dimethicone, Alcohol Denat, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Butylene Glycol, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Perlite, Sodium Hyaluronate, Nylon-12, Isopropyl Lauroyl Sarcosinate, Diisopropyl Sebacate, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Hdi/Trimethylol Hexyllactone Crosspolymer, Bis-Peg/Ppg-14/14 Dimethicone, Magnesium Sulfate, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Ethylhexyl Hydroxystearate, Phenoxyethanol, Cellulose, Dipentaerythrityl Tetrahydroxystearate/Tetraisostearate, Silica Silylate, Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Tocopherol, Moroccan Lava Clay, Glycerin, Empetrum Nigrum Fruit Juice, Aluminum Hydroxide, Silica, Potassium Sorbate [+/- May Contain: Ci 77491, Ci 77492, Ci 77499/Iron Oxides, Ci 77891/Titanium Dioxide, Ci 77163/Bismuth Oxychloride]
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
BB Cream with Ginseng - Erborian
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$46.00
Product Details
- Lightweight buildable coverage
- Contains SPF
- Ultra-soft matte finish
- Minimizes pores and imperfections
- Incorporates Korean skincare elements
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Buildable
- Natural
- Lightweight
Cons Mentioned
- Orange
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water, Cyclomethicone, Glycerin, CI 77492/Iron Oxides, Dipropylene Glycol, Peg-10 Dimethicone, Dimethicone, Isoeicosane, Talc, Hexyl Laurate, Betaine, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Panax Ginseng Root Extract, Kigelia Africana Fruit Extract, Portulaca Oleracea Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Dioscorea Villosa (Wild Yam) Root Extract, Equisetum Giganteum Extract, Glycosyl Trehalose, Palmitic Acid, Magnesium Sulfate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Dimethicone/Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Acrylates/Dimethicone Copolymer, Hydrogenated Starch Hydrolysate, Stearic Acid, Methicone, Phenoxyethanol, Tocopheryl Acetate, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Parfum/Fragrance, Ethylhexylglycerin, Butylene Glycol, Hexyl Cinnamal, Citronellol, Alpha-Isomethyl Ionone, Linalool, Geraniol, Eugenol, Limonene, CI77499/Iron Oxides, CI77491/Iron Oxides
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
BB Cream - Lily Lolo
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$22.00
Product Details
- Toning and firming effect on skin
- Contains sodium hyaluronate, organic aloe, and jojoba oil to moisturize
- Provides light coverage
- Promotes skin luminescence
- Made with natural perfume essential oils
- Long-wearing and remains colour true throughout the day
- Silicone-free formula
- Vegan, GMO-free, and cruelty-free
- Contains wheat germ and nut oil
- Award-winning hybrid between skincare and natural makeup
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Natural
- Light
Cons Mentioned
- Sticky
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Glycerin, Coco-Caprylate, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel Oil, Stearic Acid, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Boron Nitride, Benzyl Alcohol, Natural Parfum (Cedarwood Oil Virginia, Orange Oil Brazilian, Lavender Oil 38/40, Ylang Ylang III (Sdo25531), Bergamot Oil), Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Tocopherol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice Powder, Leptospermum Scoparium (Manuka) Oil, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil, Dehydroacetic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Sodium Hyaluronate, Limonene, Linalool, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Ci 77891 (Titanium Dioxide), Ci 77491 (Iron Oxide), Ci 77492 (Iron Oxide), Ci 77499 (Iron Oxide)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Instant Age Rewind Instant Perfector 4-In-1 Glow Makeup - Maybelline New York
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$8.96
Product Details
- Combines primer, concealer, highlighter, and BB cream in one product.
- Features an illuminating formula that primes, conceals, highlights, and evens skin tone.
- Offers light coverage suitable for instant skin perfection.
- Includes a built-in, flow-through sponge tip applicator for easy and quick application.
- Available in 5 self-adjusting shades designed to blend seamlessly with various skin tones.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Glow
- Easy
- Blendable
Cons Mentioned
- Liquidy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua/Water/Eau, Isohexadecane, Dimethicone, Glycerin, Isododecane, Diisopropyl Adipate, PEG-9 Polydimethylsiloxyethyl Dimethicone, Propylene Glycol, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, PEG-10 Dimethicone, Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Kaolin, Sodium Chloride, Polyglyceryl-4 Isostearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Synthetic Fluorphlogopite, Butyrospermum Parkii Butter/Shea Butter, Ethylhexylglycerin, Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Disodium Stearoyl Glutamate, Aluminum Hydroxide, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hyaluronate, Tocopherol, Hexylene Glycol, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Citric Acid [+/- May Contain: Mica, CI 77891/Titanium Dioxide, CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499/Iron Oxides]
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic BB Cream - Inika
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$49.00
Product Details
- Contains the highest percentage of organic ingredients in a BB cream
- Lightweight formula that melds into the skin, restoring moisture and masking imperfections
- Provides a delicate veil of softness
- Infused with prickly pear oil to moisturize and soften the skin
- Pomegranate seed oil helps to reinvigorate the skin, promoting a youthful appearance
- Jojoba oil enhances collagen production and reduces wrinkles
- Cruelty-free, vegan, and made with organic and natural ingredients
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Beautiful
- Light
- Coverage
Cons Mentioned
- Thick
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Neroli) Flower Water*, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil*, Vitis Vinifera (Grapeseed) Seed Oil*, Helianthus Annuus Seed (Sunflower) Oil*, Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Olivate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil*, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Seed Oil*, Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Seed Oil*, Argania Spinosa Kernel (Argan) Oil*, Glycerin*, Opuntia Ficus Indica (Prickly Pear) Seed Oil*, Pelargonium Roseum/Graveolens (Geranium) Flower Oil*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil*, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Peel Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil*, Lactobacillus Ferment+, Cetyl Alcohol, May Contain (+/-) Titanium Dioxide (CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499), Ultramarines (CI 77007) +Preservative
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Crème Mineral Beauty Balm SPF 50 - MDSolarSciences
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$42.00
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Velvety
- Hydrating
- Sheer
Cons Mentioned
- Silicony
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Actives Ingredients: Titanium Dioxide 2%, Zinc Oxide 17%; Inactive Ingredients: Dimethicone, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Dimethicone/ Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer, Butyloctyl Salicylate, Glyceryl Isostearate, Polysilicone-15, Niacinamide, Caffeine, Ubiquinone (CoQ10), Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (Vitamin C), Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Squalane, Punica Granatum Extract (Pomegranate), Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract (Green Tea), Silica, PEG/PPG-18/18 Dimethicone, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Triethoxycaprylylsilane, Iron Oxides (CI 77491, CI 77492, CI 77499)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Alight Multi-Mineral BB Cream - Pacifica
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$11.20
Product Details
- Provides a dewy, radiant finish with a light fluid formula.
- Functions as a hydrator, primer, illuminator, and skin perfector with a sheer finish.
- Infused with coconut water, hyaluronic acid, and plant stem cells.
- Helps diminish the appearance of pores, fine lines, and uneven skin tone.
- Formulated to be 100% vegan and cruelty-free.
- Suitable for all skin types.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Lightweight
- Glimmer
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Uneven
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Aqua, Caprylic / Capric Triglyceride, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Esters, Glycerin (Vegetable), Cetearyl Olivate, Sorbitan Sesquioleate, Mica, Iris Pallida (Sweet Iris) Leaf Cell Extract, Rosa Damascena (Damascus Rose) Leaf Cell Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Laminaria Hyperborea (Kelp) Extract Blend, Hyaluronic Acid, Withania Somnifera Root (Ginseng) Extract, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Potassium Cetyl Phosphate, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Titanium Dioxide, Iron Oxides, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Dehydroacetate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid, Punica Granatum (Pomegranate) Extract, Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Parfum (Natural)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Don't Sweat It Light-Coverage BB Cream Stick - Lique Active
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.99
Product Details
- Lightweight, vegan formula ensures breathable coverage suitable for all-day wear.
- Contains white tea to help reduce redness and inflammation while strengthening collagen and elastin for smoother, youthful skin.
- Infuses antioxidants into the skin to help smooth fine lines and wrinkles, providing a natural, dewy finish.
- Features a no-touch applicator for quick and easy glide-on coverage that suits an active lifestyle.
- Can be paired with LIQUE Active Oil-Infused Primer and Lip + Cheek Balm for a coordinated, fresh-faced look.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Blendable
- Lightweight
- Moisturizing
Cons Mentioned
- Greasy
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Ethylhexyl Palmitate, Pentaerythityl Tetraisostearate, Synthetic Wax, Dimethicone, Microcrystalline Wax (Cera Microcristallina), Dipentaerythrityl Hexahydroxystearate/Hexastearate/Hexarosinate, Polyglyceryl-3 Diisostearate, Polyhydroxystearic Acid, Phenoxyethanol/Ethylhexylglycerin, Tocopheryl Acetate, Water (Aqua), Disteardimonium Hectorite, Caprylyl Glycol, Propylene Glycol, Glycerin, BHT, 1,2-Hexanediol, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Punica Granatum Fruit Extract, May Contain (+/-) Titanium Dioxide(CI 77891), Iron Oxides (CI 77491, 77492, 77499)
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in BB Cream
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Disteardimonium Hectorite
Disteardimonium Hectorite is a versatile ingredient in cosmetics, functioning as a light stabilizer and viscosity controller. It is derived from natural smectite clay and chemically modified for compatibility with formulations. Its primary role is to provide stability, enhance texture, and prevent ingredient separation in cosmetic products, including creams, lotions, gels, foundations, and eyeliners. While generally safe, it can potentially cause skin irritation or rare allergic reactions in individuals with sensitivities or allergies.
Propylene Carbonate
Propylene carbonate, a colorless liquid, is principally used in paints, the pigment and dye industry, and lithium batteries. Human exposure in studies has demonstrated that it can cause moderate skin irritation in its undiluted form, although in diluted form (5 to 10%) and as a component in cosmetic products (0.54 to 20%), it presents no skin irritation. Some products containing propylene carbonate were found to be non-phototoxic, with one potentially causing a low-level photoallergic reaction. Animal studies reveal minimal irritation to skin and eyes. No significant toxic effects were found in rats subjected to high concentrations over an extended period, though some maternal toxicity was observed. Tests also show propylene carbonate is negative for mutagenicity and genotoxicity.
Triethoxyoctylsilane
Triethoxycaprylylsilane is a clear-to-yellow liquid with various functions in cosmetics, including acting as a binder, skin conditioning agent, and surface modifier. Trimethylsiloxysilicate is considered safe for skin and hair at lower concentrations, but it should not be ingested as it can be toxic. A patch test is advisable before full application, especially for individuals with highly sensitive skin.
Butylene Glycol
1,3-Butanediol is a colorless, viscous liquid used in the manufacturing of polyester plasticizers and as a mold inhibitor. It does not irritate human skin or mucous membranes but can cause severe stinging in the eyes, quickly relieved by water. Animal studies showed it has low acute oral toxicity in rodents with no major toxic effects observed. However, when used as an energy source in replacement of carbohydrates, it had central nervous system effects on rats, dogs and calves and decreased glucose while increasing beta-hydroxybutyrate in lactating goats. Also, it was found to be fetotoxic in rats during pregnancy, hinted at reduced male fertility, yet showed no genotoxic effects.
Mica
Mica, a natural mineral dust, is commonly used in makeup, cement, asphalt, and electric cable insulation. It is a color additive in cosmetics and provides a shimmer effect in foundations. Workers exposed to mica, especially in muscovite mills, face health risks like respiratory problems and lung scarring from long-term inhalation. Labels may list "Mica" or "Muscovite." Regulatory agencies have established exposure limits for worker safety.
Pentaerythrityl Tetra Adipate
Pentaerythrityl Adipate/Caprate/Caprylate/Heptanoate is a mixed ester compound derived from pentaerythritol and various acids such as adipic, capric, caprylic, and heptanoic acids. This ingredient is commonly found in products like lipstick, foundation, blush, bronzer/highlighter, and lip balm.
Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate
Calcium aluminum borosilicate, a glass-type material, serves as a bulking agent in the cosmetics and personal care industry. It enhances volume and texture in formulations, generally considered safe with low toxicity and no known cancer-causing properties. Although it's generally safe, individual sensitivities can differ, so patch tests are recommended for those with allergies. Regulatory classification includes a possibility of being carcinogenic and possibly toxic to reproduction, but it is deemed safe for cosmetic use, with concentration or use restrictions.
Alpha-Tocopherol Acetate
Tocopheryl acetate is a compound composed of acetic acid and tocopherol (vitamin E). Alpha-tocopheryl acetate (ATA), a specific form of vitamin E, is commonly found in skincare products and dietary supplements. It is used in various cosmetics and personal care items, including lipstick, eye shadow, blushers, face powders, moisturizers, bath soaps, hair conditioners, and more.
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