The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Best Non-Toxic Makeup Wipes in 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
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 makeup wipes 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.
Find Non-Toxic Makeup Wipes
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.
Makeup Remover Facial Wipes - Honest Beauty
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$7.99
Product Details
- Upgraded formula for a gentle, fragrance-free cleanse
- Plant-based cloths designed to remove makeup, including waterproof types, dirt, and oil
- Non-drying formula with a sugar-derived surfactant suitable for sensitive skin
- No rinse required and leaves no residue
- Made without PEGs, silicones, fragrance, parabens, phenoxyethanol, and EDTA
- Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic
- EWG Verified and cruelty-free
- Dermatologist and ophthalmologist tested
- Safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers
- Recognized by the National Eczema Association with the Seal of Acceptance
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Odor
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, Propanediol, Isopropyl Palmitate, Glycolipids, Hydroxyacetophenone, Glyceryl Citrate/Lactate/Linoleate/Oleate, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol, Polyglyceryl-4 Cocoate, Polyglyceryl-3 Caprate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Sodium Citrate
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.
Gentle Makeup Remover Cleansing Wipes - C'est Moi
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$34.99
Product Details
- Made with organic aloe, glycerin, green tea, and cucumber extract for a gentle cleansing experience suitable for sensitive skin.
- Biodegradable wipes contained in a recyclable pouch, promoting an eco-friendly skincare routine.
- Cruelty-free and vegan-friendly, ensuring no testing on animals.
- Fragrance-free formulation to accommodate sensitive skin types.
- Effectively removes makeup, oil, and dirt without the use of harsh chemicals.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Gentle
- Biodegradable
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: Aqua/Water/Eau, Propanediol, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Sodium PCA, Glycerin, Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate, Polyglyceryl-4 Cocoate, Disodium Cocoamphodiacetate, Sodium Laurylglucosides Hydroxypropylsulfonate, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Sodium Chloride, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate, Sodium Hydroxide, Sodium Benzoate, Potassium Sorbate, Phenoxyethanol
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.
Hydrating Facial Cleansing Makeup Remover Wipes - CeraVe
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.97
Product Details
- pH balanced and rinse-free face cleansing wipes remove dirt, oil, and makeup, including waterproof mascara.
- Contains ceramides and glycerin to help lock in moisture.
- Made with a 100% plant-based face cloth that is biodegradable in home compost.
- Specially formulated for sensitive skin; fragrance-free, oil-free, allergy-tested, ophthalmologist-tested, and non-comedogenic.
- Includes three essential ceramides (1, 3, 6-II) to help restore and maintain the skin’s natural barrier.
- Dermatologist recommended and developed in conjunction with dermatologists.
- Free from parabens, fragrances, alcohol, and suitable for all skin types.
- Accepted by the National Eczema Association.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Gentle
- Hydrating
- 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: Water, Mineral Oil, Ceramide 1, Ceramide 3, Ceramide 6-II, Hyaluronic Acid, Sodium Hydroxide, Niacinamide, Caprylyl Glycol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Butylene Glycol, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Dimethicone, Ceteareth-20, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Peg-40 Stearate, Xanthan Gum, Sodium Polyacrylate, 1,2 Hexanediol, Polyacrylamide, Disodium Edta, Isoparaffin, Laureth-7, Phytosphingosine, Cholesterol, Carbomer, Sodium Lauroyl Lactylate
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.
Take The Day Off Micellar Cleansing Towelettes - Clinique
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$21.00
Product Details
- Pre-moistened towelettes designed to remove face and eye makeup.
- Saturated with gentle micellar cleansing liquid for effective cleaning.
- Suitable for use without water.
- Causes no irritation during makeup removal.
- Re-sealable package, ideal for gym or travel use.
- Free from parabens.
- Allergy tested and fragrance-free.
- Does not require rinsing after use.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Hydrating
- Gentle
- Effective
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: Wateraquaeau, Isopropyl Palmitate, Pentylene Glycol, Dimethicone, Trisiloxane, Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Peg-20 Methyl Glucose Sesquistearate, Caprylyl Glycol, Arginine, Hexylene Glycol, Sorbic Acid, Disodium Edta, Phenoxyethanol
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.
Eye Make Up Remover Pads - Andrea Eye Q's
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$6.00
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Gentle
- Moisturizing
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: Mineral Oil, Chamomila Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Glycine Soja (Soybean) Seed Extract Carthamus Tinctorius (Safflower) Seed 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.
Gentle Glow Cleansing Cloths - Ogee
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$28.00
Product Details
- Effectively removes makeup and environmental impurities with emulsion properties and a microporous surface that breakdown and capture particles.
- Instantly moisturizes using a formula packed with Aloe Vera Juice, Jojoba Oil, and Oat Extract, combining cleanser and moisturizer technologies without detergents or alcohol.
- Stimulates cell regeneration by gently exfoliating with Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), promoting renewal of skin cells.
- Formulated with all natural and certified organic ingredients such as Blueberry Fruit Extract, Sugar Cane Extract, and Jojoba Seed Oil.
- Cruelty-free, GMO-free, vegan, gluten-free, and free from harsh chemicals, parabens, synthetic fragrances, phthalates, dyes, or petrochemicals.
- Dermatologist reviewed for safety and certified to contain 74% organic ingredients.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Moisturizing
- Soft
- Convenient
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: Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Coconut Alkanes (From Coconut), Water, Glycerin* (From Vegetable Sources), Coco-Caprylate (From Vegetable Sources), Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate (From Vegetable Sources), Polyglyceryl-6 Ricinoleate (From Vegetable Sources), Polyglyceryl-4 Cocoate (From Vegetable Sources), Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate (From Vegetable Sources), Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil*, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Blueberry) Fruit Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Cananga Odorata (Ylang-Ylang) Flower Oil, Geranium Maculatum (Geranium) Oil, Tagetes Minuta (Marigold) Flower Oil, Artemisia Pallens (Davana) Flower Oil, Ferula Galbaniflua (Galbanum) Resin Oil, Avena Sativa (Oats) Extract*, Borago Officinalis (Borage) Seed Oil*, Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters (From Jojoba Oil), Tocopheryl Acetate (From Vegetable Sources), Lactobacillus Arundinaria Gigantea Ferment Filtrate (From Bamboo), Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate (From Radish), Coco-Caprylate/Caprate (From Coconut), Xanthan Gum (From Corn & Sugar Beet), Phytic Acid (From Corn), Citric Acid (From Cassia), Sodium Benzoate (From Cassia Oil), Benzyl Alcohol (From Cinnamon), Gluconic Acid (From Fruit & Vegetable Sugar), Citronellol,** Geraniol,** Linalool***Certified Organic Ingredient **Naturally Occurring Component Of Floral Essential Oils
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.
Seriously Soothing Micellar Water Towelettes - Acure
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.95
Product Details
- Formulated for dry to sensitive skin
- Gently removes makeup, dirt, sweat, and environmental toxins
- No rinsing required after use
- 100% Vegan and certified cruelty-free
- Free from parabens, sulfates, mineral oil, petrolatum, and formaldehyde
- Ideal for travel, post-gym, hangovers, or beach outings
- Convenient for nights when washing your face is too taxing
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Gentle
- Effective
- Quality
Cons Mentioned
- Dry
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 (Eau), Glycerin, Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Rosa Damascena Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Extract, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Fruit Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Poloxamer 184, Decyl Glucoside, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid
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.
Essential Face Wipes - Ursa Major
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.00
Product Details
- Individually-wrapped face wipes infused with a 4-in-1 Essential Face Tonic formula designed to clean, exfoliate, soothe, and hydrate the skin.
- Contains naturally-derived ingredients such as hydrating aloe, toning birch sap, conditioning willow bark, and brightening sugarcane.
- Includes a built-in AHA/BHA exfoliating complex.
- Free from parabens, fragrances, cruelty, and vegan-unfriendly ingredients; contains no petrochemicals, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, colors, glycols, silicones, or PEGs.
- Made from biodegradable natural bamboo material.
- Suitable for all skin types including normal, oily, combination, acne-prone, and sensitive skin.
- Features a refreshing, outdoorsy aroma with hints of orange, lavender, and fir.
- Travel-friendly and ideal for use on-the-go, post-workout, or for makeup removal.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Refreshing
- Cleansing
- Convenient
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: Aloe Barbadensis (Aloe Vera) Leaf Juice*, Water/Aqua/Eau, Leuconostoc/Radish Root Ferment Filtrate, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf/Flower Water, Salix Nigra (Willow) Bark Extract, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Pulp Water*, Glycerin*, Sodium Hyaluronate, Levulinic Acid, Sodium Levulinate, Vaccinium Myrtillus (Bilberry) Fruit/Leaf Extract, Saccharum Officinarum (Sugar Cane) Extract, Acer Saccharum (Sugar Maple) Extract, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Fruit Extract, Citrus Limon (Lemon) Fruit Extract, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Seed Extract*, Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract*, Betula Alba (Birch) Sap, Lactobacillus/Arundinaria Gigantea (Bamboo) Ferment Filtrate, Caprylyl/Capryl Wheat Bran/Straw Glycosides, Fusel Wheat Bran/Straw Glycosides, Polyglyceryl-5 Oleate, Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate, Glyceryl Caprylate, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Pseudotsuga Menziesii (Fir) Needle Oil*, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Oil*, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens (Geranium) Leaf/Flower Oil*, Boswellia Carterii (Frankincense) Resin Extract, Leuconostoc Ferment Filtrate, Propanediol, Soybean Peroxidase, Superoxide Dismutase, Citric Acid, Potassium Sorbate, Alcohol, Linalool, Citronellol, Geraniol, Limonene
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.
Makeup Remover Cleansing Cloths - e.l.f.
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.98
Product Details
- Infused with vitamin E and aloe to nourish and hydrate the skin.
- Leaves skin refreshed and smooth.
- Travel-friendly packaging for convenient use anytime, anywhere.
- Includes 20 pre-moistened wipes.
- Free from Parabens, Sulfates, and Phthalates.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Effective
- Gentle
- Affordable
Cons Mentioned
- Irriating
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, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Ceteareth-20, Cetearyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Ceteareth-12, Cetyl Palmitate, Peg-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Polysorbate 20, Propylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Phenoxyethanol, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate, Citric Acid
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.
Biodegradable Cleansing Wipes - No 7
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.99
Product Details
- Facial cleansing wipes help clear pores and remove impurities, pollutants, and makeup.
- Infused with vitamin pro B5, witch hazel, and fennel extracts to leave skin feeling smooth, clean, and revitalized.
- Effectively removes waterproof and long-lasting makeup.
- Formulated to help protect the skin's natural, healthy balance.
- Suitable for all skin types, fragrance-free and hypo-allergenic.
- Dermatologically tested.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Gentle
- Soft
- Biodegradable
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: Aqua (Water/Eau), Propylene Glycol, Cetearyl Isononanoate, Phenoxyethanol, Glycerin, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Hexyldecanol, Hexyldecyl Laurate, Ceteareth-20, Cetearyl Alcohol, Benzoic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Sodium Citrate, Tetrasodium Edta, Tocopheryl Acetate, Dehydroacetic Acid, Citric Acid, Ceteareth-12, Cetyl Palmitate, Butylene Glycol, Panax Ginseng Root 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.
Glowing Makeup Remover Wipes - Pacifica
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$4.99
Product Details
- Effectively removes makeup, dirt, and oil, aiming to reveal a beautiful glow.
- Gently brighten, cleanse, and exfoliate the skin without the need for scrubbing.
- Ingredients include glycolic acid, coconut water, calendula, and aloe.
- Made with natural plant fiber towelettes.
- Suitable for travel with packaging designed to prevent leaks or spills, containing 30 wipes.
- Manufactured in the USA utilizing desirable elements.
- Free from parabens, phthalates, and other harsh chemicals.
- 100% vegan and cruelty-free product.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Refreshing
- Effective
- Gentle
Cons Mentioned
- Strong-scented
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, Sodium Cocoyl Hydrolyzed Soy Protein, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Extract, Glycerin, Potassium Sorbate, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract, Rosa Damascena (Rose) Flower Water, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Water, Calendula Officinalis (Calendula) Flower Extract, Carica Papaya (Papaya) Fruit Extract, Glycolic Acid, Parfum (Natural), Polysorbate 20, Phenoxyethanol
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 Makeup Wipes
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Triclosan
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.
Sources:
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
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
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
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.
Propylparaben
Propylparaben is a stable, non-volatile compound utilized as an antimicrobial preservative in food, drugs, and cosmetics. Human exposure can cause sensitization especially if applied to damaged skin and may cause contact sensitivity with high concentrations. Extensive animal studies reveal that propylparaben is relatively non-toxic, yet it can mildly irritate skin, affect sperm counts in substantial levels, and trigger cell proliferation in the forestomach of rats. However, it is not carcinogenic, mutagenic, or clastogenic, and a significant no-observed-adverse-effect level was reported in rats. Ecotoxicity studies show that it can lead to an increase in plasma vitellogenin levels in rainbow trout and a significant decline of vitellogenin production in zebrafish at varying concentrations.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable gas with a pungent smell that's naturally produced in small quantities in human bodies and is also known as methanal amongst other names. It's used in the production of various items such as fertilizers, paper, plywood, and urea-formaldehyde resins as well as in some foods and household products like antiseptics, medicines, and cosmetics. Exposure to formaldehyde, which can occur through breathing contaminated indoor air, tobacco smoke, or ambient urban air can lead to respiratory symptoms, irritation of the eyes, nose and throat and has been linked to lung and nasopharyngeal cancer as well as leukemia. The EPA considers formaldehyde a probable human carcinogen (Group B1) and inhaling it can cause bronchospasm and pulmonary edema. Commercially, it's sold as formalin in solutions of 37%, 44%, or 50% and long-term exposure can cause first-degree burns, skin sensitization, squamous cell nasal cancer, and chronic pulmonary obstruction.
Sources:
Formaldehyde and Cancer Risk, Cleaning Products & Indoor Air Quality, No More Toxic Tub, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Preservatives, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Formaldehyde And Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives, Formaldehyde may be found in cosmetic products even when unlabelled, Formaldehyde Found in Popular American Beauty Products, Hair Salons - Formaldehyde in Your Products, Formaldehyde in cosmetic products
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