Banned Ingredients
Some conventional cosmetic ingredients, while extending product shelf life or improving texture, have negative long-term effects on human health and the environment. At Clean Studio, we reject brands and products containing these ingredients, instead choosing products formulated with proven and safe ingredients.
Below you'll find the main ingredients we avoid as part of our clean beauty approach.
Parabens
Parabens (Methyl-, Propyl-, Butyl-, Isobutyl-paraben) are the most common preservatives used to extend the shelf life of cosmetic products. However, some types are thought to affect hormonal balance by acting like estrogen in the body and may accumulate over the long term. They can be found in a wide variety of products such as shampoo, cream, deodorant, and foundation. Safer alternatives are used in clean cosmetics.
Sulfates
Sulfates (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate) are surfactants that create foam and a feeling of cleanliness. However, they can weaken the skin's protective barrier, leading to dryness and irritation. In clean cosmetics, gentler, plant-derived cleansers are preferred over sulfates.
Phthalates
Phthalates (Diethyl Phthalate, DBP, BBP, etc.) are commonly used as fragrance stabilizers or to make plastics more flexible. However, there is evidence that some types may affect the hormonal system. In clean cosmetics, natural or biotechnological fragrance components are preferred.
Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
(DMDM Hydantoin, Imidazolidinyl Urea, Quaternium-15) These preservatives can release formaldehyde over time. Formaldehyde is known for its irritating and allergenic effects. Natural acid-based preservatives are preferred in clean cosmetics.
BHA / BHT
(Butylated Hydroxyanisole/Hydroxytoluene) BHA and BHT are synthetic antioxidants that prevent product spoilage, but have been associated with potential hormonal effects. Clean formulations utilize natural antioxidants such as vitamin E and plant extracts.
EDTA and its derivatives
(Disodium/Tetrasodium EDTA) EDTA is an environmental risk because it does not decompose in nature. Clean alternatives include sodium phytate or sodium gluconate.
Ethanolamine Derivatives
(DEA, MEA, TEA) These components carry a risk of nitrosamine contamination. Plant-based emulsifiers are preferred in clean cosmetics.
Silicones
(Cyclotetrasiloxane, Cyclopentasiloxane, D4, D5, D6) Silicones can accumulate in the environment. Squalane, vegetable oils, and natural esters are used as replacements.
Aluminum Salts
Aluminum salts, which prevent sweating, can affect the skin's natural functions. Alternatives such as magnesium hydroxide and zinc ricinoleate are used in cleansing cosmetics.
Petrolatum, Mineral Oil and Paraffin
Petroleum derivatives are unsustainable and carry the risk of impurities. Shea butter, cocoa butter, and plant-based waxes are preferred in clean formulations.
PFAS
(Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) PFAS are not biodegradable and can accumulate in the body. Bio-based polymers and natural film-forming agents are used in clean cosmetics.
Hydroquinone
It is used to lighten skin tone but carries risks of irritation and toxicity. Alternatives include arbutin and niacinamide.
Resorcinol
This substance used in hair dyes can be an allergen and a hormone disruptor. Natural pigments are preferred as an alternative.
Toluene
It is used as a solvent in nail polish formulas, but it is toxic if inhaled. Toluene-free formulas are used in clean cosmetics.
Triclosan / Triclocarban
It is used in antibacterial products, but it can negatively affect hormone balance and the environment. Tea tree oil or herbal extracts are used in cleansing cosmetics.
Chemical Solar Filters
Some chemical filters, such as oxybenzone and octanoxate, have been linked to hormonal effects and environmental damage. Therefore, physical filters are preferred in clean cosmetics.
Opaque Synthetic Perfume Blends
Synthetic perfumes with undisclosed ingredients carry an allergen risk and lack transparency. Clean cosmetics use natural or explicitly listed fragrance components.