Best Non-Toxic Hair Serum in 2024
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Find Non-Toxic Hair Serum
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User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Magic Serum - SEEN
Product Details
- Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic, suitable for sensitive, eczema, and acne-prone skin.
- Formulated without fragrances, sulfates, silicones, phthalates, parabens, dyes, cocamidopropyl betaine, gluten, and formaldehyde-releasing preservatives.
- Provides UV, pollution, and heat protection up to 450º Fahrenheit.
- Serum reduces frizz, adds shine, nourishes, and strengthens hair.
- Contains hemisqualane for color protection, frizz reduction, and to maintain smooth hair.
- Includes squalane, a plant-derived moisturizer that restores luster and adds shine.
- Features ethylhexyl olivate from olives to soften and nourish hair.
- Awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance and "Best for Sensitive Skin" Trusted Choice badge by SkinSAFE.
- Reduces hair breakage by up to 81% after a single use, as per independent third-party lab testing.
- Application instructions suggest using 2-5 drops on damp or dry hair, focusing on mid-lengths and ends, and can be mixed with SEEN styling creams.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Shiny
- Smooth
- Fragrance-free
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: Ethylhexyl Olivate, C13-15 Alkane (Plant Derived), Squalane
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User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Nourish Hair & Scalp Serum - Captain Blankenship
Product Details
- Nourishing serum suitable for all hair types and textures.
- Formulated with rosemary extract to promote hair growth and scalp health.
- Includes Camellia Seed Oil, Argan Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Fir Needle Oil to restore damaged hair and enhance scalp health.
- Reduces frizz and adds shine with a blend of vegan and organic plant oils.
- Scented with organic essential oils for a fresh hair fragrance.
- Can be used on damp or dry hair to tame frizz or massaged into the scalp as a nourishing treatment.
- All-natural, non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free with Leaping Bunny certification.
- Sustainable packaging using recyclable materials aligned with environmentally friendly practices.
- Free from synthetic fragrances and parabens.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Softening
- Nourishing
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Itchy
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: Camellia Oleifera Seed Oil*, Argania Spinosa Kernel Oil*, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil*, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil*, Abies Balsamea (Balsam Canada) Needle Oil*, Laminaria Digitata Extract*, Fucus Vesiculosus Extract*, Ascophyllum Nodosum Extract*, Porphyra Umbilicalis Extract*, Alaria Esculenta Extract*, Juniperus Virginiana Oil* * Certified Organic Ingredient ** Wildharvested Ingredient
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User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Cold Processed Apple Stem Cell Scalp Serum - Act + Acre
Product Details
- Contains clinically proven Swiss Apple Stem cells to protect hair follicle stem cells against premature thinning and shedding, promoting stronger and fuller hair.
- Includes bamboo and pea extract to hydrate the scalp and support collagen production, enhancing scalp quality and hair growth.
- Formulated with soothing aloe vera for immediate relief and lasting healing of itchy scalp.
- Features apple stem cell and French oak extract to delay scalp aging and promote healthier skin and hair.
- Color safe, vegan, silicone free, sulphate free, paraben free, and phthalates free.
- User-proven results with 91% reporting that scalp feels nourished and 89% noting healthier scalp and improved hair health.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Lightweight
- Non-greasy
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
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: Water (Aqua), Glycerin, Butylene Glycol, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice (Aloe), Bambusa Vulgaris Leaf/Stem Extract (Bamboo), Caprylyl Glycol, Carbomer, Citric Acid, Plant-Based Collagen, Ethylhexylglycerin, Glucosamine Hcl, Glycereth-26, Lecithin, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (Radish), Malus Domestica Fruit Cell Culture Extract (Apple), Pentylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Pisum Sativum (Pea) Extract (Pea), Propanediol, Quercus Petraea Fruit Extract (Oak), Sodium Hyaluronate, Sodium Hydroxide, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Xanthan Gum
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.
Create Shine Glossing Serum - Innersense
Product Details
- Silicone-free serum that nourishes, protects, and adds shine to all hair types and textures.
- Contains a lightweight blend of cold-pressed plant extracts that absorb quickly to enhance shine from beneath the hair’s surface.
- Formulated with macadamia and cranberry seed oils to lock in moisture and reduce frizz.
- Incorporates sunflower and sesame oils which are rich in antioxidants to protect against damage.
- Features grounding lotus flower for a soothing floral fragrance that enhances both strands and senses.
- Made from natural and organic ingredients ethically harvested and sourced from trusted, transparent locations worldwide.
- Free from parabens, sulfates, gluten, phthalates, propylene glycol, ethoxylates, synthetic fragrances, and cruelty practices.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Shiny
- Lightweight
- Moisturizing
Cons Mentioned
- Overpowering
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: Hydrogenated Ethylhexyl Olivate* (Olive Oil), Ethyl Macadamiate* (Macadamia Oil), Sesamum Indicum (Sesame) Seed Oil*, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil*, Hydrogenated Olive Oil Unsaponifiable, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil*, Coco-Caprylate, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Triethyl Citrate, Persea Gratissima (Avocado) Oil, Fragrance**, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Vaccinium Macrocarpon (Cranberry) Seed Oil*, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter*, Tocopherol, Malic Acid, Linalyl Acetate**, 2,6-Dimethyl-7-Octen-2-Ol**, Gamma Decalactone**, Hexenyl Acetate**, Delta Decalactone**, Dimethyl Heptenal**, 3-Hexenol**, Dimethyl Anthranilate**, Gamma Nonalactone**, Dodecahydro Tetramethylnaphthofuran**, Mentha Viridis (Spearmint) Leaf Oil**, Octanal**, Methylbenzyl Acetate, Cis-2-Methyl-4-Propyl-1,3-Oxathiane**
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.
Tame Hair Serum - Aesop
Product Details
- Formulated to gently smooth and control flyaway strands and frizz without causing stickiness or build-up.
- Can be applied to both damp or dry hair, and is easily removed with shampoo.
- Contains natural ingredients including Petitgrain, Bergamot Rind, and Patchouli.
- Suitable for most hair types and lengths, especially those prone to flyaways or frizz.
- Features a fresh, citrus, floral aroma.
- Comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee for customer satisfaction.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Improves
- Control
- Fragrant
Cons Mentioned
- Ineffective
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: Water (Aqua), 1,2-Hexanediol, Glycerin, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Acrylates Crosspolymer-3, Benzyl Alcohol, Hydrolyzed Oats, Xanthan Gum, Aminomethyl Propanol, Maltodextrin, Panthenol, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Polysorbate 20, Dehydroacetic Acid, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Biosaccharide Gum-1, Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Leaf/Twig Oil, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Jasminum Officinale (Jasmine) Oil, Limonene, Linalool, Benzyl Benzoate, Geraniol, Benzyl Salicylate
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.
Mighty Majesty - Fortifying Hair Serum - RANAVAT
Product Details
- Restores scalp health and adds shine to hair using a powerful treatment to prevent damage and maintain lustrous strands.
- Contains an ultra-nourishing blend of Amla extract, jasmine oil, and sunflower oil to manage breakage, nourish the scalp, and protect against heat damage.
- Multi-tasking functionality allows the serum to be used for enhancing shine, controlling frizz, or as a weekly overnight repair masque, with customizable treatment intensity.
- Awarded Highly Commended Best Hair Oil in Marie Claire UK 2022 Hair Awards, Best Scalp Oil for Wavy Hair in Women's Health 2021, and included in Harper's Bazaar 2019 Conscious Beauty Awards.
- Adheres to clean beauty standards with a formulation that is certified organic, vegan, cruelty-free, non-GMO, and free of synthetic fragrances.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Aromatic
- Softening
- Refreshing
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: Organic Sunflower Oil, Organic Jasmine Oil And Organic Amla 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.
Organic Seabuckthorn Styling Serum - Living Libations
Product Details
- Clarifies curls, fixes frizz, and defies dry ends, making it easier to style hair.
- Ultra-thin, highly conditioning, lightweight, and non-sticky gel format.
- Designed to maintain optimum moisture in the hair.
- Contains nourishing botanicals, going beyond chemical-filled styling products.
- Made from natural, organic, and wildcrafted ingredients.
- Handmade in small batches, with normal slight variations in color, consistency, and scent.
- Paraben-free, sulfate-free, cruelty-free, and gluten-free.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Magical
- Effective
- Heavenly
Cons Mentioned
- Runny
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: Pure Vitalized Spring-Water, Wild Harvested Seaweed Extract, Aloe Vera Gel, Seabuckthorn Berry, Acacia Gum, Grapefruit Seed Extract, Colts Foot, Horse Chestnut, Horsetail, Nettle, Rosehips, Peppermint, Rosemary, Patchouli, Grapefruit, Super-Critical Antioxidants of Rosemary
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
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
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.
Hair Growth Serum - Alika
Product Details
- Utilizes Liposome technology for efficient delivery of active ingredients into hair follicles.
- Features clinically proven actives such as Redensyl, Capixyl, and Baicapil, which aid in reducing hair loss and stimulating hair growth.
- Formulated to work on both the men's and women's scalp with specific DP+ and DP- formulas.
- Redensyl is noted to increase hair growth by 214% over 10 days and can potentially help grow 28,000 hairs in 3 months.
- Capixyl enhances protein production and strengthens hair attachment to the epidermis.
- Baicapil boosts hair thickness and length.
- Does not contain harmful chemicals such as sulfates, silicones, parabens, phthalates, dyes, DEA, or phosphates.
- Designed to treat various hair issues such as thinning, breakage, and bald patches, and is safe for dry, oily, and normal scalps.
- Comes with a pleasant herbal fragrance suitable for both men and women.
- Can be an effective gift for individuals facing hair loss, showing noticeable results after 2 weeks.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Thickening
- Smoothing
Cons Mentioned
- Expensive
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: Cocos Nucifera (Coconut Oil), Sesamum Indicum (Sesame Oil), Camellia Oleifera (Camellia Oil), Argania Spinosa (Argan), Azadirachta Indica (Neem Oil), Cedrus Atlantica (Cedarwood), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender), Cymbopogon Martini (Palmarosa), Citrus Aurantium Amara (Petitgrain), Emblica Officinalis (Amla), Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Liquorice), Ocimum Tenuiflorum (Tulsi), Bacopa Monniera (Brahmi), Boswellia Carterii (Frankincense), Pogostemon Cablin (Patchouli), Santalum Spicata (Sandalwood)
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.
Hair Flourish - Sunday II Sunday
Product Details
- Best suited for curly and coily 3A - 4C hair types and medium to thick hair thickness.
- Application involves twisting open the nozzle and applying a few drops directly to thinning or weakened areas; recommended for nightly use under scarves and headbands.
- Oil-based formula provides intense overnight nourishment and hydration without leaving a greasy residue.
- Made with clean ingredients including Coconut Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, and Biotin; features Banana Extract.
- Vegan, gluten-free, and cruelty-free formulation.
- Free from benzene, silicone, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, and mineral oil.
- Recognized as Self 2021 Best New Hair Styling award winner.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Hydrating
- Softening
- 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: Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Diisostearyl Dimer Dilinoleate, C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate, Cocoyl Adipic Acid/Trimethylolpropane Copolymer, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, PEG/PPG-8/3 Diisostearate, Silica Dimethyl Silylate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed Oil, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polyurethane-79, Methyl Glucose Dioleate, Biotin, Musa Sapientum (Banana) Fruit Extract, Trimethylolpropane, Fragrance (Parfum)
Common Harmful Chemicals in Hair Serum
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
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.
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
Sodium laureth sulfate, derived from ethoxylated lauryl alcohol, is a surfactant used in sudsy products like toothpaste, detergents, and shampoos. While it acts as a cleansing and emulsifying agent, it can sometimes contain toxic impurities such as 1,4-dioxane. This chemical has raised health concerns due to its potential to cause skin, lung, and eye irritation, organ toxicity, and, primarily because of contamination by 1,4 dioxane, cancer.
The Dirty Dozen: Sodium Laureth Sulfate, 15 Toxic Trespassers, SKIP PRODUCTS MADE WITH SLES (AND SLS, TOO!), Campaign for Safe Costmetics: 1,4-DIOXANE, WHAT IS SODIUM LAURETH SULFATE: CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, A new formula for a mild body cleanser: sodium laureth sulphate supplemented with sodium laureth carboxylate and lauryl glucoside,
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is recognised as a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant according to ICSC. It may cause allergic reactions and eye irritation as stated by the HSDB. Exposure may even result in eye burns, as per CAMEO. Depending on its form - which may range from a solid (90-98% purity), to a paste (30-41%), or an aqueous solution (28-50%) - it can significantly irritate skin and eyes, with adverse effects escalating with increased concentration. Despite these hazards, it is not a skin sensitizer according to CHEMINFO, while eChemPortal: ERMA and MSDSonline endorse its classification as an irritant.
Triclosan is a synthetic pesticide with antibacterial properties commonly added to detergents, soaps, and various personal care products such as deodorants and toothpastes. Although it lacks the ability to combat viruses causing colds and flus, it's used in products like body washes, disinfectants, and some toothpastes to resist bacterial growth. In 2016, the FDA limited its use in antibacterial soaps, but the compound is still permitted in other products. The European Union prohibited its presence in food-contact items in 2010. Exposure to triclosan has been associated with hormone disruption, increased breast cancer risk, liver damage, and the development of resistant super-germs.
Triclosan Exposure, Transformation, and Human Health Effects, Are antibacterial products with triclosan fueling bacterial resistance?, Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, The Effects of Triclosan on Puberty and Thyroid Hormones in Male Wistar Rats, Triclosan is a potent inhibitor of estradiol and estrone sulfonation in sheep placenta, The in Vitro estrogenic activities of triclosan and triclocarban, Antibacterial Soap? You Can Skip It, Use Plain Soap and Water, Environmental Exposure of Aquatic and Terrestrial Biota to Triclosan and Triclocarban, Triclosan: Environmental Fate and Effects, Chemical Profile: Triclosan / Triclocarban, 5 Things to Know About Triclosan, Underarm Harm? Whats So Bad About Antiperspirants?, Some flame retardants and the antimicrobials triclosan and triclocarban enhance the androgenic activity in vitro, Triclocarban Enhances Testosterone Action: A New Type of Endocrine Disruptor?, Triclosan, a commonly used bactericide found in human milk and in the aquatic environment in Sweden
Benzene is a colorless, sweet-smelling, highly flammable liquid that evaporates quickly into the air and slightly dissolves in water. It's a byproduct of both natural processes and human activities, used extensively in the U.S production of other chemicals for plastics, resins, nylon, rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. Present in crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke, benzene is also released into the air from burning coal, oil, gasoline stations, and vehicle exhaust. Short-term exposure may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and irritation, while long-term exposure leads to blood disorders, reproductive effects, and even leukemia. Benzene has been classified by EPA as a known human carcinogen, and regulations apply to various industry sectors with potentially high exposure risks.
Triethanolamine appears to cause occupational asthma and allergic contact dermatitis in machinists and photographers, as well as liver and kidney damage in animals with high-dose feeding. It's noted to be an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract, with potential to cause skin sensitization, though the rate of skin sensitization in humans is low. Triethanolamine has low acute toxicity, with median oral LD50 values of 4,190-11,260 mg/kg in rats and 5,300-8,000 mg/kg in guinea pigs, and a median dermal LD50 greater than 2,000 mg/kg in rabbits. Triethanolamine is not carcinogenic, developmental toxicant, or toxic to the reproductive system. However, chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage.
Safety assessment of triethanolamine and triethanolamine-containing ingredients as used in cosmetics, Toxicology of mono-, di-, and triethanolamine, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Ethanolamine Compounds (MEA, DEA, TEA And Others), The Dirty Dozen: DEA-related ingredients, Chemical Profile, Special Chem, Safety assessment of triethanolamine and triethanolamine-containing ingredients as used in cosmetics
Diethanolamine is a chemical found in various consumer products like shampoos, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals. Acute exposure in humans can result in irritation of the nose, throat, and skin. However, no detailed data is available on its chronic, reproductive, developmental or carcinogenic effects on humans. Studies on animals reveal that acute oral exposure can influence the liver, blood, kidney, and central nervous system, while dermal exposure has been connected with an increased incidence of liver and kidney tumors in mice. Production of first-degree burns, skin irritation, occupational asthma, kidney, and liver injury risk, and potential skin sensitization are some other adverse effects associated with diethanolamine.
Chemical Safety Facts: Ethanolamines, NTP Toxicology and Carcinogenesis Studies of Diethanolamine, California Environmental Protection Agency: Diethanolamine , International Agency for Research on Cancer: Diethanolamine, Initial List of Hazardous Air Pollutants with Modifications, What is the Toxics Release Inventory?, OPINION CONCERNING DIALKYL- AND DIALKANOLAMINES AND THEIR SALTS IN COSMETIC PRODUCTS, Ethanolamine Compounds (MEA, DEA, TEA And Others), WHAT ARE ETHANOLAMINE COMPOUNDS (DEA, MEA, OR TEA): CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, The Dirty Dozen: DEA-related ingredients, FDA: Diethanolamine, Chemical Profile: Diethanolamine ,
2-Phenoxyethanol is a hazardous substance toxic by all routes of exposure, and is used widely in products like cosmetics, soaps, and inks, among others. The effects of exposure to this faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid can include eye irritation, headaches, tremors, and CNS depression. It's crucial to rinse exposed eyes with tepid water for at least 15 minutes and to wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water in case of contact. The substance requires preheating before ignition can occur, and if involved in a fire, gentle water spray can extinguish the fire by inducing frothing.
Methylisothiazolinone can reportedly cause allergic contact dermatitis in workers who interact with products containing it. This substance is recognized as a contact allergen for consumers using cosmetics that include it. It can cause skin burns and sensitization, and inhaling it may lead to corrosive injuries in the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Ingesting this substance is harmful, and inhalation is toxic. This preservative is linked to the category of isothiazolinones.
Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, Methylisothiazolinone toxicity and inhibition of wound healing and regeneration in planaria, Methylchloroisothiazolinone and/or methylisothiazolinone in cosmetic products, Isothiazolinone Biocides: Chemistry, Biological, and Toxicity Profiles, Methylisothiazolinone and isothiazolinone allergy, Analysis of isothiazolinones in environmental waters by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, Methylisothiazolinone induces apoptotic cell death via matrix metalloproteinase activation in human bronchial epithelial cells, EU REGULATIONS , Methylisothiazolinone contact allergy: a review, Effects of methylisothiazolinone and octylisothiazolinone on development and thyroid endocrine system in zebrafish larvae, Two Cases of Chloromethylisothiazolinone and Methylisothiazolinone-associated Toxic Lung Injury, An update of the risk assessment for methylchloroisothiazolinone/methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) with focus on rinse-off products, Effects of a mixture of chloromethylisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone on peripheral airway dysfunction in children, Isothiazolinone preservative: cause of a continuing epidemic of cosmetic dermatitis, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Methylisothiazolinone and Methylchloroisothiazolinone
Isopropyl alcohol has been shown to cause narcosis in animals during acute studies, as cited by ACGIH. However, according to research by Zimmerman, it is not hepatotoxic in either experimental animal studies or in human exposures. It's known to be a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant, and if inhaled in high concentrations, it can cause CNS depression, as indicated by the ICSC.
Octinoxate, commonly found in various cosmetic and personal care products such as hair color products, sunscreen, lipstick, and skin creams, is an endocrine disruptor that mimics estrogen and can affect thyroid function. It has been detected in human urine, blood, and breast milk, indicating systemic exposure. Octinoxate's potential health concerns include its impact on cell proliferation in response to estrogen exposure, disruptions in thyroid hormones, alterations in reproductive systems, and adverse effects on the development of male and female fetuses, as well as their offspring.