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Best Non-Toxic Hair Oil in 2024
Updated:
Nov 18, 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
+ 1 more
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our use of affiliate links does not influence how we rate products. Learn more about our affiliate policy here.
What you should know when choosing non-toxic hair oil 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 Hair 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.
Organic Moroccan Argan Oil - Pura d'or
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$12.99
Product Details
- Daily protection against environmental damage to skin and hair.
- Enhances hydration in hair, tames frizz, and balances oil production.
- Reduces redness and irritation in skin with anti-aging properties.
- Non-comedogenic facial oil, suitable for not making skin oily.
- Multi-use moisturizer for skin, face, hair, and nails.
- USDA organic certified by California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF).
- Known as "Liquid Gold" for its rarity and value in cosmetics.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Nourishing
- Versatile
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Smell
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: Organic Argania Spinosa (Argan) Kernel 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.
Natural & Vegan Agender Oil - NOTO Botanics
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$46.00
Product Details
- Suitable for hair and body use, designed to soften and protect hair regardless of where it grows
- Formulated with organic hemp oil to deeply nourish and soften skin and hair
- Incorporates a blend of vetiver and lavender, offering a smoky yet sweet aroma
- Free from parabens, sulfates, and cruelty; vegan-friendly
- Produced in the USA
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Hydrating
- Aromatic
- Effective
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: Cannabis Sativa (Hemp) Seed Oil, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Vetiveria Zizanoides (Vetiver) Root Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Citral, Linalool, Limonene, Geraniol, Coumarin
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.
Natural Harmonic Treatment Oil - Innersense
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.00
Product Details
- Formulated with flower essences and oils, including evening primrose, macadamia, and tamanu, which balance skin and scalp health and nourish both.
- Contains key ingredients like safflower seed oil, evening primrose oil, tamanu oil, hazel seed oil, orange flower oil, jojoba seed oil, and rosemary oil, each known for specific skin and hair benefits such as moisture, nourishment, and stimulation for hair growth.
- Free from sulfates, parabens, silicones, phthalates, propylene glycol, ethoxylates, synthetic fragrances, gluten, PEG, MEA, TEA, MIA, EDTA, and artificial dyes, highlighting a commitment to non-toxic, clean haircare.
- Cruelty-free product, not tested on animals.
- Ingredients are ethically harvested and sourced from trusted, transparent plantations, orchards, and farms around the world, ensuring organic and sustainable growth without chemicals.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Hydrating
- Silky
- Shiny
Cons Mentioned
- Oily
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: Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil*, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Flower Extract*, Olibanum, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Corylus Americana (Hazel) Seed Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Oil*, Calophyllum Tacamahaca Seed Oil, Rosmarinun Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil*, Nelumbium Speciosum (Lotus) Flower Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Oil*, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil*, Cananga Odorata Flower 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.
Organic Hair Oil - Butter Me Up Organics
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$29.95
Product Details
- Made with organic Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Camelina Oil
- Designed to make hair smooth and repair damage
- Promotes hair growth and a healthy scalp
- Scented with essential oils of Lavender, Rosemary, and Clary Sage
- Packaging can be reused or recycled
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: Jojoba Oil*, Argan Oil*, Camelina Oil*, Grapeseed Oil, Lavender EO*, Rosemary EO*, Clary Sage EO
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.
Moroccan Argan Oil - Acure
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$43.33
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: Argania Spinosa Kernel 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.
Jojoba Hair Oil with Rosehip Oil - Clary Collection
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$36.00
Product Details
- Suitable for both hair and beard application, can be used on wet or dry strands.
- Composed of unrefined, organic Jojoba Oil, infused with Plantain leaves, Lavender, Chamomile, and Calendula flowers.
- Includes nourishing oils such as Sandalwood, Frankincense, Lavender, Rosehip, and Neroli.
- Designed to calm frizz and tame flyaways for more manageable hair.
- Boosts hair elasticity with Rosehip oil and Neroli, enhancing body and flexibility.
- Formulated with natural and organic ingredients sourced from local herb farmers and ethical beekeepers.
- Free from sulfates, phthalates, parabens, alcohol, and synthetic or artificial additives.
- Certified non-toxic by MADE SAFE®, ensuring it is free from toxins harmful to humans or ecosystems.
- Cruelty-free product with sustainably sourced ingredients.
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: Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Plantain Leaves, Organic Calendula Flowers, Organic Chamomile Flowers, Organic Lavender Flowers, Organic Sandalwood Oil, Organic Frankincense Oil, Organic Neroli (Bitter Orange Blossom) Oil, Organic Rosehip Oil, Organic Rosemary Extract
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.
Cold Processed 5% Argan Repair Hair Oil - Act + Acre
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$39.99
Product Details
- Made with natural ingredients, including Argan Oil and Meadowfoam Seed Oil.
- Designed to strengthen and repair damaged hair, addressing issues like breakage and split ends.
- Provides heat protection to shield hair from damage caused by heat styling tools.
- Lightweight formula that does not leave hair feeling greasy or weighed down.
- Suitable for all hair types, enhancing its versatility for different hair textures and styles.
- Free from harmful chemicals such as sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Lightweight
- Smooth
- Nourishing
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: Limnanthes Alba (Meadowfoam) Seed Oil, Squalane, Argania Spinosa Kernel (Argan) Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil Phytosterol Esters, Fragrance
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.
Legendary Amazon Oil - Rahua
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$44.00
Product Details
- Infused with Real Botanical Aroma scent for a pleasant hair fragrance.
- Incorporates Calendula Officinalis Flower Oil Extract to combat dandruff and support hair growth.
- Made with all-natural ingredients from the Amazon to penetrate and strengthen hair strands.
- Quick absorbing formula that nourishes and repairs hair.
- Suggested for use on clean, towel-dried hair for full hair treatment, and can be applied to dry hair for targeted areas.
- Free from silicones, using lightweight plant and flower oils for a smooth, shiny, anti-frizz finish.
- Formulated for daily use to banish flyaways, heal split ends, and promote hair shine.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Softening
- Silky
- Nourishing
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: Organic Calendula Officinalis Flower Oil, Organic Decolorized Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Oil, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Oil, Organic Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Oenocarpus Bataua (Rahua Ungurahua) Oil, Mauritia Flexuosa (Morete) Fruit Oil, Plukenetia Volubilis (Sacha Inchi) Seed Oil, Aroma, Gardenia Jasminoides (Gardenia Enfleurage) 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.
Organic Crowning Glory Nourishing Nettle Hair Oil - Living Libations
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$31.00
Product Details
- Nourishes hair roots and scalp with essential oils
- Addresses issues like dry, flaky scalps, damaged hair, and split ends
- Strengthens hair strands and restores shine
- Helps cleanse scalp pores and maintains overall hair health
- Formulated with natural, organic, and wildcrafted ingredients
- Handmade in small batches, ensuring slight variations in color, consistency, and scent
- Comes in recyclable glass packaging
- Free from parabens, sulfates, cruelty, gluten, and is vegan
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Nourishing
- Softening
- Long-lasting
Cons Mentioned
- Smelly
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: Pumpkin Seed (Cucurbita Pepo), Jojoba (Simmondsia Chinensis), Stinging Nettles (Urtica Dioica), Rosemary (Rosmarinus Verbenone), Lemon Petitgrain (Citrus Limon), Vetiver (Chrysopogon Zizanioides), Spikenard (Nardostachys Jatamansi), Lime Essential Oil (Citrus Aurantiifolia)
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.
Natural Ever Recovery Hair Oil - Reverie
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$52.00
Product Details
- Formulated with natural ingredients such as Marula oil, Squalane, and Crambe Abyssinica for a luxurious, nourishing experience.
- Penetrates the hair cuticle to seal, coat, smooth, and repair split ends.
- Delivers nutrients to enhance shine, repair damage, protect from color degradation, increase elasticity, and reduce thermal damage.
- Free from sulfates, silicones, parabens, phthalates, artificial fragrances, artificial coloring, glycols, petrochemicals, glutens, animal derivatives, T.E.A, and D.E.A.
- Infused with a new scent blend of jasmine, sandalwood, violet, and ho wood for a warm, floral aroma.
- Suitable for colored hair, including extensions.
- Contains essential oils like jasmine, sandalwood, frankincense, violet, orange, and ho wood.
- Fast-absorbing formula minimizes split ends and adds shine.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Lightweight
- Restorative
- Healthy
Cons Mentioned
- Scent
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: Dicaprylyl Ether, Sclerocarya Birrea (Marula) Seed Oil, Crambe Abyssinica Seed Oil Phytosterol Esters, Squalane (Derived From Olives), Citrus Bergamia (Bergamot) Peel Oil, Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Flower Oil, Vanilla Planifolia (Bourbon Vanilla) Bean Oil, Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Oil, Salvia Officinalis (Sage) Leaf Oil, Laurus Nobilis (Bay Laurel) Leaf Oil, Lavandula Burmati (Lavandin) Flower/Leaf Oil, Zingiber Officinale (Ginger) Root Oil, Santalum Spicatum (Sandalwood) Wood Oil, Piper Nigrum (Black Pepper) Fruit Oil, Foeniculum Vulgare Var. Dulce (Fennel) Seed Oil, Callitris Intratropica (Cypress) Wood Oil, Vetiveria Zizanioides (Vetiver) Root Oil, Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli) Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Extract, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Bud Oil, Mentha Spicata (Spearmint) Leaf 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.
Shine Hair & Beard Oil - Aesop
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$35.00
Product Details
- Paraben-free, cruelty-free, and vegan
- Silicone-free hydrating oil nourishes and softens hair
- Delivers essential fatty acids to hair
- Imparts smoothness and lustre without build-up or oily residue
- Can be used on both damp and dry hair
- Key ingredients include Borage Seed, Jojoba Seed, and Petitgrain
- Suited for coarse, dry, frizzy, thick, and wavy hair
- Lightweight oil texture with a green, citrus, floral aroma
- Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Hydrating
- Smoothing
- Calming
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: Borago Officinalis Seed Oil, Coco-Caprylate/Caprate, Cocoglycerides, Coco-Caprylate, Ethylhexyl Olivate, PPG-3 Benzyl Ether Myristate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Simmondsia Chinesis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Linoleic Acid, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Tocopherol, Bisabolol, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Leaf/Twig Oil, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Jasminium Officinale (Jasmine) Oil, Linolenic Acid, d-Limonene, Linalool, Benzyl Benzoate, Farnesol, Benzyl Salicylate, Geraniol, Eugenol, Benzyl Alcohol, Citral
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.
Bassu Gold Hydrating Oil - Surface
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$34.80
Product Details
- Protects while brightening color and adding shine to hair.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Shiny
- Hydrating
- Lightweight
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: Carrot Oleoresin, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil, Orbignya Oleifera (Babassu) Seed Oil, Linum Usitatissimum (Flax) Seed Oil, Cocos Nucifera Oil, Hydrolyzed Amaranth Protein, Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Laurydimonium Hydroxypropyl Hydrloyzed Soy Protein, Ceramide NP, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Fragrance (Parfum), Cyclopentasiloxane, Cyclomethicone, Dimethicone, Linum Usitatassimum (Linseed) Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract
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.
h a i r (s i l k) Natural Hydrating Peptide Hair Serum - Agent Nateur
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$78.00
Product Details
- Features a blend of nourishing oils, restorative proteins, and replenishing conditioners for silky, soft, and shiny hair.
- Formulated to support hair strength and smoothness over time, not just temporarily.
- Contains French silk peptides, hyaluronic acid, and monoi to hydrate, revive, and soften hair without harsh silicones.
- Designed to address hair issues such as dullness, dryness, breakage, frizz, and damage from styling or the environment.
- Suitable for all hair types.
- Organic, natural, cruelty-free, silicone-free, and non-GMO.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Hydrating
- Lightweight
- Shiny
Cons Mentioned
- Oily
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: Cucurbita Pepo (Pumpkin) Seed, Coco-Caprylate, Crambe Abyssinica Seed, Cocos Nucifera, Gardenia Tahitensis Flower, Copaifera Officinalis (Balsam Copaiba) Resin (And) Passiflora Edulis Seed, Hibiscus Sabdariffa (Hibiscus) Seed, Ethyl Macadamiate, Sodium Hyaluronate, Hydrolyzed Silk, Jasmine Sambac, Myroxylon Balsamum Pereirae Balsam, Amber, Cananga Odorata (Ylang Ylang) Flower
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 Hair Oil
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Phthalate
Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.
Sources:
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Phthalates, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Phthalates in Cosmetics, Phthalates in cosmetic and personal care products: concentrations and possible dermal exposure, A Survey of Phthalates and Parabens in Personal Care Products from the United States and Its Implications for Human Exposure, Phthalates Factsheet, BPA and Phthalates: Chemicals found in our homes
Polyacrylamide
Acrylamide is a man-made white crystalline solid primarily used in the production of polymers and copolymers. In humans, it is toxic and irritates the skin and mucous membranes, and can affect the central, peripheral, and autonomic nervous systems leading to symptoms like memory difficulties, confusion, slurred speech, and excessive sweating. It may cause peripheral neuropathy, resulting in loss of sensation and muscle wasting. Recovery after exposure can take months to years. Animal studies indicate acrylamide accumulates in the nervous system, liver, kidney, and male reproductive system, causing degenerative changes. It might disrupt metabolism, induce oxidative stress, cause chromosomal aberrations, and tumor initiation. There is no evidence of teratogenic effects in humans or causing cancer. It has also shown genotoxic effects in some aquatic species like C. Auratus and mussels.
Polyquaternium
Polyquaternium, modified polymers through quaternization are known for skin toxicity and allergenicity. Prolonged exposure, especially for hairdressers and janitors, may pose risks. It's found in various products, including hair conditioners, creams, and household cleaning items. Concerns include skin irritation, formaldehyde release, and contact dermatitis. Regulations in the EU limit Quaternium-15 to 0.2% in cosmetics, while the US lacks specific regulations.
Resorcinol
Resorcinol is a white crystalline compound with various uses in areas like tanning, photography, resin manufacture, adhesives, and cosmetics. It can be used medically as an antifungal, antibacterial, and keratolytic agent, and in dermatology-related treatments, specifically for acne amongst others. Direct skin contact with the compound can cause redness, itching, dermatitis, and even corrosion of the affected area. Overexposure could lead to symptoms like irritation, dermatitis, dyspnea, drowsiness, hypothermia, and changes to spleen, kidney, and liver. Animal studies have shown that high oral doses can result in fatalities whereas smaller doses can cause changes to liver weights with no reported carcinogenic effect or mutations in Salmonella typhimurium strains.
Styrene
Styrene is a colorless to yellowish, oily liquid used mainly in plastic, synthetic rubber, and resin production but also as a flavoring agent. Acute human exposure can cause irritation, drowsiness, and vertigo, with skin blistering and dermatitis resulting from long-term contact. It has been linked to increased rates of certain types of cancer, liver effects, and problems with the reproductive system. Animal studies have similarly shown irritation, central nervous system effects, and links to cancers. Styrene's endocrine disruptor activity appears negligible in humans and other vertebrates, but there is evidence of impact in certain aquatic species.
Titanium Dioxide
The study on 1,576 U.S. workers exposed to TiO2 for over a year from 1956 to 1985 showed no increase in lung cancer or chronic respiratory disease, and no cases of pulmonary fibrosis. Cases of pulmonary fibrosis related to TiO2 exposure have been reported, possibly due to silica contamination. There are no listed effects for short-term or long-term exposure. Although NIOSH recognises ultrafine TiO2 as a potential occupational carcinogen, data is insufficient to classify fine TiO2 similarly. Epidemiological studies do not provide clear evidence of lung cancer risks from TiO2 dust exposure.
Galaxolide
Galaxolide is recognized as an established contact allergen in humans, according to the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety's 2011 report on fragrance allergens in cosmetic products. This compound has been identified as a reproductive effector and acts as a moderate skin irritant, as documented in The Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS).
Sources:
Galaxolide: A Threat to the Environment and Human Health, Prolonged sub-lethal exposure to galaxolide (HHCB) and tonalide (AHTN) promotes the metastatic potential of glioblastoma tumor spheroids, Galaxolide: A Long-lasting Fragrance Contaminating the Great Lakes, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Galaxolide, Human dermal exposure to galaxolide from personal care products, Human dermal exposure to galaxolide from personal care products, Molecule of the Week Archive: Galaxolide
Quaternium-15
Quaternium-15 is a preservative commonly used in cosmetics which is known to significantly contribute to allergic contact dermatitis in users. This condition has been reported in various professions, including hairdressers, machine maintenance engineers at a chicken processing plant, and photocopy workers. Notably, Quaternium-15, as a formaldehyde releaser, increases dermatitis risk. However, rinse-off products typically pose a lower risk of resulting in allergic contact dermatitis.
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