Parabens
Widely used as preservatives, can be found in shampoos, moisturizers, shaving gels, cleansing gels and personal lubricants. Known to cause skin irritation, contact dermatitis and other allergic skin reactions. Parabens, also known as methyl, propyl, butyl and ethyl (alkyl-p-hydroxybenzoates) mimic your body´s own hormones and can have endocrine-disrupting action when rubbed into your body or washed down the drain.

Some studies identified parabens to be present in breast cancer tissue samples (linked to use of underarm deodorants), but more research needs to be conducted before a link can be proven.

Petroleum
Mineral oil and petroleum are central ingredients found in many cosmetics and contain similar origins as fossil fuels. Generally found in foundations, cleansers, and moisturizers, mineral oil sits on the surface of the skin and can likely block pores. This may result in pimples, as the skin cannot suitably “breathe.” A popular chemical additive is propylene glycol and also a derivative of petroleum. Past research connects propylene glycol to liver and kidney damage.

Phthalates
This group of industrial chemicals is linked to birth defects and used in a variety of cosmetics and embedded in the ingredient, " fragrance."

Phthalates is not listed as an ingredient on product labels and can only be detected through laboratory analysis. The FDA completed a study on the safety of phthalates in cosmetics, but is refusing to release its findings. According to preliminary information uncovered by the CSC (Campaign for Safe Cosmetics), two-thirds of health and beauty products analyzed by the FDA contained phthalates.

Carcinogenic Hair Coloring
The Environmental Working Group found that seventy-one hair dye products contained ingredients derived from carcinogenic coal tar. The FDA issued consumer advice on reducing use of this chemical to potentially lessen the risk of cancer.