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Best Non-Toxic Dry Shampoo in 2025
Updated:
Aug 28, 2025
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What we look for:
- Simple formulations using fully natural or safe synthetic ingredients
- No parabens, PEGs, phthalates, harsh sulfates, BHA/BHT, artificial dyes, formaldehyde or formaldehyde releasers, or undisclosed synthetic fragrance (unless certified safe)
- Minimal, necessary preservatives only
- Trusted third-party certifications when available
- Transparent sourcing, ingredients, and manufacturing practices
Find Non-Toxic Dry Shampoo
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.
Powder Dry Shampoo - Qet Botanicals
Welpr Rating
4.95
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.00
Product Details
- Absorbs excess oil naturally while freshening your hair and scalp.
- Crafted with natural and nontoxic ingredients for peace of mind.
- Free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and other harmful chemicals.
- Provides a clean, light feeling without any artificial fragrances.
- Made in small, hand-crafted batches for quality assurance.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effectively reduces grease and extends time between washes.
- Contains no harmful toxins and is EWG verified.
- Lightweight feel and pleasant lavender scent.
- Many users appreciate knowing what is in the product.
Cons
- Packaging requires a makeup brush for application, which may feel less convenient for some users.
- Some users with sensitive scalps experienced clumping and itchiness.
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: Maranta Arundinacea (Arrowroot Root) Powder, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Flower Oil, *Organic Ingredient
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 Organic Dry Shampoo - Butter Me Up Organics
Welpr Rating
4.9
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$23.95
Product Details
- Keeps hair fresh and clean without using harmful chemicals.
- Free from butane and other toxic ingredients.
- Handcrafted with all-natural ingredients for health-conscious use.
- Perfect for quick touch-ups between regular washes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Dark shade blends well with black/brown hair for a natural look.
- Leaves hair feeling clean and fresh.
- Seller provides good customer service with prompt replacements for damaged items.
Cons
- Packaging may be insufficient, leading to product breakage during shipping.
- Shade may be slightly lighter than pictured, which could affect expectations for those seeking a very dark color.
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: Sodium Bicarbonate, White Kaolin Clay, Arrowroot Powder, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Cocoa Powder, Activated Charcoal
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.
Dry Shampoo for Dark Hair - The Earthling Co.
Welpr Rating
4.9
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$25.99
Product Details
- Refresh and volumize hair naturally and keep it looking clean without any build-up.
- Strengthen and nourish your hair with natural ingredients like rice protein, biotin, and rosemary.
- Suitable for all hair types, including both light and dark shades.
- A non-aerosol formula free from harsh chemicals, sulfates, silicones, and parabens.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Great for maintaining clean hair without toxic aerosols.
- Nourishes the scalp and supports hair growth.
- Leaves no white residue, even on dark hair.
- More effective at oil absorption compared to spray dry shampoos.
- Eco-friendly packaging and completely plastic-free.
- Long-lasting with minimal product use per application.
Cons
- The packaging can be messy and may need transfer for easier use.
- Some with lighter hair or thinner hair might find the powder slightly visible.
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 Arrowroot Powder, Bentonite Clay, Organic Raw Cacao Powder, Organic Rosemary Essential Oil, Organic Clary Sage Essential Oil, Organic Geranium Essential 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 Natural Dry Shampoo Powder for Dark Hair - Chagrin Valley
Welpr Rating
4.85
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$20.50
Product Details
- Absorbs excess oil, keeping hair clean and refreshed between washes.
- Enhances volume and bounce, ideal for post-gym or travel touch-ups.
- Infused with organic lavender and rosemary for a fresh, uplifting scent.
- Free from talc, aluminum, and synthetic residues for gentle care.
- Eco-friendly packaging, perfect for those conscious of their environmental impact.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effective for oily hair, absorbs excess oil quickly.
- Made with organic, non-toxic ingredients.
- Available in hair color-matching options, reducing visible residue.
- Environmentally friendly and sustainable packaging.
- Leaves hair feeling soft and adds volume.
Cons
- Some users find the packaging difficult to manage and messy during application.
- Users who dislike a chocolate scent may not appreciate the fragrance.
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 Arrowroot Powder, Organic Cornstarch, Organic Cocao Powder (Fair Trade), Organic Tapioca Flour, Kaolin Clay, Organic Burdock Root, Organic Plantain, Organic Lavender Essential Oil, Organic Rosemary Essential 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.
Refresh Dry Shampoo Powder - Captain Blankenship
Welpr Rating
4.85
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.00
Product Details
- Contains no harmful chemicals, using a non-aerosol sprayer for easy application.
- Absorbs oil and boosts volume with organic ingredients for refreshed hair.
- Features a unique formula with organic arrowroot powder and glacial marine clay.
- Certified cruelty-free and vegan, prioritizing ethical and sustainable practices.
- BPA-free recyclable packaging aligns with environmentally conscious values.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Long-lasting and ideal for reducing frequent hair washes, extending cleanliness.
- Pleasant scent that is subtle and not overpowering, appreciated by multiple users.
- Environmentally friendly packaging, with no harmful impact on the ozone layer.
- Gentle and safe for sensitive skin, making it suitable for those with allergies.
- Provides excellent volume and texture, delivering a fuller look to thinning hair.
Cons
- Some users found the scent too strong or unusual for their liking.
- May leave a visible white cast on darker hair, requiring careful application.
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: Maranta Arundinacea Root Powder, Kaolin, Sodium Bicarbonate, Silica, Lactobacillus Ferment, Sea Salt, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Cymbogon Martinii Oil, Certified Organic Ingredient
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.
Dry Shampoo - Acure
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$11.99
Product Details
- Instantly refreshes hair without the need for water, saving time and effort.
- Made with natural, vegan ingredients including arrowroot powder, rosemary, and peppermint for scalp health.
- Enhances hair vibrancy, strength, and overall health, suitable for all hair types.
- Compact and convenient for travel, providing fresh hair on the go.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effectively absorbs oil without leaving hair brittle or dry.
- Suitable for sensitive scalps and those avoiding aerosol products.
- Pleasant and subtle fragrance, ideal for those sensitive to scents.
- Great for reducing oiliness between washes and adding volume.
- Compact and travel-friendly without TSA restrictions.
Cons
- Some users, especially those with dark hair, may notice a white residue if not applied carefully.
- Application can be a bit messy, requiring extra time to blend in properly.
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: Zea Mays (Corn) Starch, Sodium Bicarbonate, Maranta Arundinacea Root Powder, Kaolin, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Oil, *Certified Organic
Save 10% on purchases on Primally Pure.
Dry Shampoo - Primally Pure
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Discount Code
WELPR
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$18.00
Product Details
- Refreshes second or third-day hair with lightweight texture and volume
- Oil-absorbing clays help lift roots and eliminate grease
- Organic essential oils purify and soothe the scalp
- Supports healthy hair growth and scalp balance
- Clean, non-toxic formula for that just-showered feel—no wash needed
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effectively refreshes hair and absorbs oil without leaving residue.
- Easy to use with controlled spray application.
- Works well on dark hair and blends in naturally.
- Has a pleasant, soothing scent.
- Lightweight formula that doesn’t weigh hair down.
Ingredients
Ingredients: Arrowroot Powder*, Kaolin Clay, Cocoa Powder*, Baking Soda, Essential Oils of Grapefruit*, Lavender* and Peppermint*
Save 10% on purchases on Toups & Co via our link.
Dry Shampoo - Toups & Co
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Discount Code
No code needed
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$30.00
Product Details
- Refreshes hair and scalp by absorbing oil and buildup without washing.
- Soothes irritation and helps prevent dandruff with natural ingredients.
- Made with arrowroot powder and kaolin clay for a lightweight, invisible finish.
- Available in light and dark shades for all hair types and colors.
- Perfect for post-gym touch-ups or extending time between washes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Absorbs oil effectively, helping extend time between washes.
- Non-toxic formula with simple ingredients is a safer alternative to aerosol sprays.
- Adds volume and freshness, especially helpful for fine or silver hair.
- Easy to apply and comes with a convenient brush for targeted use.
- Works well for spot-refreshing areas like bangs without full washing.
Cons
- Choosing the correct shade is important—lighter formulas may be visible on darker hair.
Ingredients
Ingredients: Organic Arrowroot Powder, Kaolin Clay, Sodium Bicarbonate (Baking Soda), Ho Wood Oil, Organic Cacao Powder (for dark hair only)
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.
Plant-Based Fulvic Acid Volumizing Dry Shampoo - Act + Acre
Welpr Rating
4.75
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.00
Product Details
- Absorbs oil, odor, and impurities to refresh hair and boost volume.
- Contains just six plant-based ingredients for a simplified and effective formula.
- Features fulvic acid to detoxify the scalp and deliver essential minerals.
- Made without toxins, ensuring a safe and natural hair care option.
- Suitable for all hair types, colors, and genders, blending seamlessly with any style.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- No scent, perfect for sensitive noses.
- Free from harsh chemicals and additives.
- Great for absorbing oil and adding volume.
- Eco-friendly, non-aerosol application.
- Does not leave white residue on dark hair.
Cons
- Some users find the pump difficult to use effectively, especially halfway through.
- Not ideal for those seeking long periods without hair washing due to small bottle size.
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: Oryza Sativa (Rice) Starch, Tapioca Starch, Oryza Sativa (Rice) Powder, Silica, Water/Aqua/Eau, Ioniplex Fulvic Ionic Mineral Complex
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 Natural Dry Shampoo Powder - Chagrin Valley
Welpr Rating
4.75
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$20.50
Product Details
- Absorbs oil with plant-based ingredients, leaving hair vibrant and minty-fresh.
- Adds texture, volume, and bounce without residues, perfect for post-workout touch-ups.
- Infused with essential oils for a crisp, minty scent, nourishing the scalp.
- Free from talc, aluminum, micas, or preservatives, suitable for all hair types.
- Packaged in recyclable paperboard tubes, ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
- Revitalizes hair between washes, perfect for quick fixes or gym sessions.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Contains organic and non-toxic ingredients, offering a safe option for health-conscious users.
- Perfect for those with oily hair, effectively absorbing excess oil.
- Environmentally friendly formula and packaging, catering to eco-conscious buyers.
- Blends well with darker hair colors for a natural look without white residue.
- Leaves hair feeling soft with a pleasant, subtle scent.
Cons
- Some users find the packaging difficult to manage, which can lead to a messy application.
- The cocoa scent may not appeal to everyone, particularly those who prefer a different fragrance.
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 Arrowroot Powder, Organic Cornstarch, Organic Fair Trade Cocoa Powder, Organic Tapioca Flour, Kaolin Clay, Organic Burdock Root, Organic Plantain, Organic Essential Oils: Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Rosemary, Spearmint, Lime & Tea Tree
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.
Voluminous Dry Shampoo - Rahua
Welpr Rating
4.7
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$32.00
Product Details
- Refreshes hair and scalp without the need for water, ideal for on-the-go lifestyles.
- Adds instant texture and volume, simplifying styling and extending hairstyle life.
- Infused with natural ingredients that absorb excess oil and perspiration, leaving hair clean and refreshed.
- Leaves a subtle, pleasant botanical aroma.
- Made with organic, plant-based ingredients, aligning with health-conscious values.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Offers a natural, non-toxic alternative to traditional dry shampoos.
- Enhances hair volume and thickness, especially for those with oily hair.
- Leaves a pleasant light scent that's not overwhelming.
- Environmentally friendly with a non-aerosol formula, perfect for travel.
- Users find it effective with a little practice in application.
Cons
- Some users find the applicator difficult to manage, requiring practice for consistent use.
- May cause scalp irritation or a dull appearance for some individuals.
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: Fuller's Earth (Clay), Organic Tapioca Starch (Cassava Root), Illicium Verum (Star Anise), Vanilla Planifolia, 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.
Organic Flowers in Her Hair Dry Shampoo - Living Libations
Welpr Rating
4.7
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$32.00
Product Details
- Crafted with natural minerals, botanicals, and essential oils for a toxin-free experience.
- Absorbs excess oil, dispels dandruff, and soothes the scalp to maintain healthy hair.
- Increases shine and restores your hair's natural vitality without the need for water.
- Convenient for use anywhere, saving time on hair care routines.
- Packed in recyclable glass and free from parabens, sulfates, and gluten.
- Suitable for all hair types and colors, extending the life of color-treated hair.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Convenient shaker makes it easy to apply to the scalp.
- Natural ingredients appeal to health-conscious users.
- Faint wildflower smell may be appreciated by some users.
Cons
- Some users may find the container size quite small.
- Those preferring smoothness might notice a slightly grainy texture.
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: Arrow Root (Maranta Arundinacea), Kaolin Clay (Kaolinite, White Clay), Silk Peptides, Rosemary Antioxidant Extract (Rosmarinus Officinalis, CO2), Baking Soda (Sodium Bicarbonate), Probiotics (Bacillus Subtilis), Chamomile Flowers (Anthemis Nobilis), Lavender Flowers (Lavendula Officinalis), Jasmine Sambac (Jasmine Sambac), Ylang Ylang (Cananga Odorata), Magnolia Blossom (Michelia Champaca), Roman Chamomile (Anthemis Nobilis), Alpine Lavender (Lavandula Angustifolia)
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 Refresh Dry Shampoo - Innersense
Welpr Rating
4.65
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$24.00
Product Details
- Eliminates excess oil, builds body, and creates texture for renewed second-day hair.
- Formulated with natural ingredients like tapioca starch and witch hazel for oil absorption.
- Contains organic honey to add body and shine, suitable for all hair types and textures.
- Made with ingredients grown organically and sustainably without chemicals.
- Free from parabens, sulfates, gluten, and is cruelty-free.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Smells great and brings life back to hair between washes.
- Pump application makes it travel-friendly and easy to use.
- Ingredients are safer than many alternatives, ideal for health-conscious users.
- Adds volume to hair, especially when plucked up while drying.
Cons
- Some users find that the foam takes time to dry, which could affect styling for those in a hurry.
- A few users with darker hair noticed a slight powdery residue.
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, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Leaf Extract, Tapioca Starch, Alcohol, Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Peel Oil, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Zea Maize (Corn) Starch, Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Dehydroacetic Acid, Benzyl Alcohol, Galactoarabinan, Pullulan, Glycerin, Xanthan Gum, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Hydroxypropyltrimonium Honey, Sorbic Acid, Panthenol (Vitamin B-5), Hydrolyzed Rice Protein, Hydrolyzed Quinoa, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Extract, Ginkgo Biloba Leaf Extract, Aspalathus Linearis Leaf Extract, Honey Extract, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Linalool, Limonene
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 Dry Shampoo
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Talc
Talc, a naturally occurring mineral, is commonly used in cosmetics and personal care products for its moisture-absorbing, smoothing, and anti-caking properties. It is also utilized in food products and animal feed. However, some talc may be contaminated with asbestos fibers, which are linked to cancer. This contamination occurs due to the proximity of talc deposits to asbestos mining sites. Health concerns associated with talc include irritation, cancer risks, and potential organ system toxicity.
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.
Benzene
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.
Sources:
Isobutane
Isobutane is a colorless gas used in various applications including organic synthesis, as a refrigerant, in motor fuels, aerosol propellant, and in synthetic rubber. In humans, isobutane can cause rapid breathing and heart rate with severe cases leading to low blood pressure, apnea, and cardiac arrest. Cases of ventricular fibrillation due to isobutane have been reported, along with substance abuse-related health issues in children and adolescents. Animal studies involving isobutane exposure led to various health effects such as eye irritation, fatal outcomes, anesthesia, and central nervous system depression. It, however, tested negative in a mutagenicity assay.
Propane
Propane is a colorless and odorless gas utilized in the formulation of cosmetics and personal care products like shaving cream, cleansing products, hair conditioners, and makeup. However, inhaling or ingesting propane can be harmful as it displaces oxygen in the lungs, leading to breathing difficulties or even suffocation.
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
Butylparaben
Butylparaben, a chemical used in various products, has been shown to cause skin irritation in humans and potential sensitization in dermatitis patients. Animal studies indicate that it has low to moderate oral toxicity and can cause damage to the liver, spleen, and thymus. It can also lead to cell proliferation in rats' stomachs, though it was not found to be carcinogenic or mutagenic. However, it may negatively impact sperm viability and activity, as demonstrated in different in vitro and in vivo studies. Lastly, it proposed weaker aquatic toxicity compared to parabens with longer alkyl chains, but still showed estrogenic effects in certain fish species.
Ethylparaben
Ethylparaben is a chemical used as a preservative in various products including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and adhesives. It exhibits low toxicity in humans and animals, but can cause skin irritation, particularly when applied to damaged skin, and may worsen pre-existing skin conditions. Despite causing cell proliferation in rats' forestomachs and chromosomal aberrations in a hamster ovary cell test, it has shown no evidence of causing cancer. However, it was found to be toxic to fetuses at doses toxic to the mother, though it did not cause malformations (nonteratogenic). Interestingly, while it impacted sperm viability in lab conditions, it showed no negative effects on mouse sperm in actuality.
Sources:
Campaign For Safe Cosmetics: Parabens, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Parabens At A Glance, What to Know About Parabens, The effects of ethylparaben and propylparaben on the development and fecundity of Drosophila melanogaster, Ethylparaben, Amended Safety Assessment of Parabens as Used in Cosmetics, WHAT ARE PARABENS: CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, Biomonitoring Summary
Methylparaben
Methylparaben is an antimicrobial preservative used in food, drugs, and cosmetics. Some individuals can develop contact dermatitis on skin exposure, and allergic reactions have been reported on ingestion, though the evidence is not conclusive. Data from animal studies suggest that methylparaben is practically non-toxic and non-irritating in normal skin conditions, with high thresholds for observed adverse effects. However, it showed chromosome aberrations in a cell assay and variable results in different uterotrophic assays. An ecotoxicity study found changes in the expression of certain genes at specific concentrations in male medaka, a type of fish.
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.
Isobutylparaben
Isobutylparaben belongs to the paraben family of preservatives used in the food, pharmaceutical, and personal care product industries. Parabens mimic estrogen and have been found in breast cancer tumors in some studies. Parabens are commonly found in various personal care products and foods and have been associated with endocrine disruption, skin cancer risk, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential behavioral changes in offspring when exposed during gestation.
Isopropylparaben
Isopropylparaben belongs to the parabens family of preservatives utilized in the food, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors. Parabens have estrogen-mimicking properties and pose a potential risk as endocrine disruptors. Research has detected parabens in the breast cancer tumors of a significant number of studied women, raising concerns about their safety and hormonal effects.
Authors
Camille May, Product Curator
Olushola M. Awoyemi, Medical Reviewer
