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 Shaving Cream in 2025
Updated:
Aug 28, 2025
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What we look for:
- Thoughtful formulas made with natural or safe synthetic ingredients
- Free from parabens, PEGs, phthalates, harsh sulfates, BHA/BHT, artificial dyes, formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, and undisclosed synthetic fragrance (unless certified safe)
- Minimal, well-chosen preservatives
- Trusted third-party certifications when available
- Transparent sourcing, ingredient lists, and manufacturing practices
Find Non-Toxic Shaving Cream
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.
Fresh Body Oil for Shaving, Showering & Massage - Qet Botanicals
Welpr Rating
4.95
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$38.00
Product Details
- Helps firm and hydrate the skin naturally, leaving it soft and soothed.
- Enhances razor glide, making shaving a smoother, soothing experience.
- Locks in hydration when applied to damp skin after showering, keeping skin moisturized.
- Enlivens skin and senses with a fresh, natural fragrance from therapeutic oils.
- Contains no toxic substances such as parabens, phthalates, sulfates, artificial fragrances, or dyes.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- None
Cons Mentioned
- Smelly
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: Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil*, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil*, Helianthus Annus (Sunflower) Seed Oil*, Brassica Oleracea (Broccoli) Seed Oil, Tocopherol (Non-GMO Vitamin E), Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Flower Oil*, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil*, Rubus Idaeus (Red Raspberry) Seed Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Flower Oil*, Jasminum Sambac (Jasmine) Flower Oil* Organic Ingredient*
The Classic Shave Cream - Jackfir
Welpr Rating
4.85
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$36.00
Product Details
- Provides a close and smooth shave while calming dry, irritated skin.
- Formulated with natural, organic ingredients to lock in moisture.
- Features a natural earthy scent with essential oils, no synthetic fragrances.
- Certified clean, including EWG Verified and vegan certifications.
- Undergoes allergy and dermatologist testing for safety and efficacy.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Low toxic ingredients ensure a worry-free shaving experience.
- Clean and organic formulation improves skin quality over time.
- Highly recommended with a top rating on EWG.org for its safe ingredients.
- Ideal for sensitive or dry skin with gentle and effective performance.
- Provides a smooth, close shave that many users love.
Cons
- Some may find the cream too thick, which could clog razors.
- Fragrance is subtle and might not be noticeable for everyone.
Ingredients
Ingredients: Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice*, Stearic Acid, Stearyl Alcohol, Glycerin*, Potassium Hydroxide, Cetyl Palmitate, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract*, Bisabolol, Juniperus Virginiana Oil, Pogostemon Cablin Oil, Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil, Panthenol, Anthemis Nobilis Flower/Leaf/Stem Oil, Vetiveria Zizanoides Root Oil, Camphor, Terpineol, Citronellol, Geraniol, Viola Odorata Leaf Extract, Benzyl Acetate, Ethyl Butyrate, Ethyl Acetate, Caprylhydroxamic Acid, Glyceryl Caprylate, Triethyl 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.
Natural Shaving Cream - Pacific Shaving Company
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.99
Product Details
- Crafted with natural, plant-derived ingredients for a smooth shave, reducing the risk of razor burn.
- Paraben-free and synthetic fragrance-free to prevent redness, irritation, and bumps.
- Certified organic ingredients keep even the most sensitive skin healthy, soothed, and hydrated.
- Suitable for sensitive skin and compatible with both men's and women's shaving needs.
- Cruelty-free formula never tested on animals.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Delivers a smooth and close shave, leaving skin refreshed.
- A small amount goes a long way, making it long-lasting.
- Formulated with clean, natural ingredients that are gentle on the skin.
- Available in convenient travel size, perfect for on-the-go.
- Offers both scented and unscented options, catering to personal preferences.
- Helps avoid nicks and cuts, enhancing shaving comfort.
Cons
- Some users found the packaging a bit unsuitable for shower storage due to water retention issues.
- Those who prefer aerosols may find the texture unique, requiring adjustment.
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: Certified Organic Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Myristic Acid (Derived From Palm Kernel And Coconut Oils), Stearic Acid (Derived From Vegetable Fats And Oils), Potassium Hydroxide, Glycerin (Vegetable-Based), Certified Organic Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Certified Organic Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Citrus Tangerina (Tangerine) Peel Oil, Certified Organic Camellia Sinensis (White Tea) Leaf Extract, Camellia Oleifera (Green Tea) Leaf Extract, Certified Organic Calendula Officinalis Flower Extract, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Extract, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Extract, Symphytum Officinale (Comfrey) Extract, Trifolium Pretense (Clover) Extract, Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Fruit Extract, Althaea Officinalis (Marshmallow) Root Extract, Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Extract, Sorbic Acid, Tocopheryl Acetate (Vitamin E), Hydroxyethylcellulose
Save 10% on purchases on Toups & Co via our link.
Men's Shave Soap - Toups & Co
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Discount Code
No code needed
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$19.00
Product Details
- Delivers a smooth, irritation-free shave with nourishing grass-fed tallow.
- Kaolin clay allows for a close glide while protecting skin’s natural balance.
- Free from chemicals, parabens, and synthetic fragrances.
- Suitable for both men and women with sensitive or dry skin.
- Lightly scented with Douglas fir for a clean, refreshing finish.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Creates a rich lather that provides a smooth, comfortable shave.
- Natural ingredients help reduce irritation and leave skin feeling soft.
- Loved by both men and women for face and body shaving.
- Pleasant scent and great glide make it a standout alternative to conventional shaving creams.
Ingredients
Ingredients: 100% Grass-Fed Tallow, Organic Coconut Oil, Kaolin Clay, Orange Fruit Extract, Balsam Copaiba Resin, Pink Grapefruit Peel Oil, Amyris Bark Oil, Douglas Fir Branch/leaf Oil, Ho Wood Oil, Key Lime Peel Oil
Save 10% on purchases on Toups & Co via our link.
The Everything Bar - Toups & Co
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Discount Code
No code needed
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$19.00
Product Details
- Cleanses, hydrates, and protects hair, skin, and body in one simple step.
- Made with organic coconut oil to deeply nourish and lock in moisture.
- Infused with organic grapefruit essential oil for a light, refreshing scent.
- Offers natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Leaves skin soft, balanced, and refreshed without unnecessary ingredients.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Creates a rich, satisfying lather that rinses clean and easily.
- Hydrates and refreshes without drying out the skin.
- Fresh, clean scent is loved by both men and women.
- Gentle enough for sensitive areas and daily use.
- Made with natural, non-toxic ingredients and works for multiple uses.
Cons
- Some users wish it came in a larger size to last longer.
Ingredients
Ingredients: Organic Virgin Coconut Oil, Organic Grapefruit 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 Shaving Soap - Dr. Bronner's
Welpr Rating
4.75
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$14.63
Product Details
- Made with organic and fair trade ingredients to nourish and moisturize skin.
- Combines shaving, cleansing, and hydrating functions for convenience.
- Contains shikakai powder for soothing and hydrating benefits while shaving.
- Free from synthetic preservatives, detergents, and foaming agents for a completely non-toxic experience.
- Certified cruelty-free, vegan, and produced with sustainable practices.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Provides a smooth shave without irritating sensitive skin.
- Free from harmful chemicals, ideal for health-conscious users.
- A small amount lasts a long time, making it economical.
- Lathers nicely, allowing razors to glide with ease.
- Offers a subtle, earthy scent that doesn't linger.
Cons
- Some users find the consistency too watery and messy to use.
- The packaging could be improved for easier dispensing.
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 Sucrose*, Organic White Grape Juice, Organic Coconut Oil*, Organic Palm Kernel Oil*, Potassium Hydroxide**, Organic Olive Oil*, Organic Shikakai Powder, Organic Hemp Seed Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Xanthan Gum, Citric Acid, Tocopherol, *Certified Fair Trade Ingredients
Ultra Gentle Whipped Shave Cream - Billie
Welpr Rating
4.75
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.29
Product Details
- Ultra-gentle formula with allantoin, coconut oil, shea butter, and aloe vera to soothe and moisturize sensitive skin.
- 100% fragrance-free, ideal for those who prefer a scent-free shave experience.
- Whipped texture creates a protective, airy barrier between skin and razor, reducing irritation.
- Dermatologist-approved and safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
- Free from parabens, sulfates, and aerosols, and is vegan and cruelty-free.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Rich, creamy texture creates a smooth, luxurious shave.
- Packed with skin-loving, non-toxic ingredients like shea butter and aloe.
- Vegan, cruelty-free, and free from parabens and sulfates.
- Mild, pleasant scent with options for unscented.
- Moisturizes skin, leaving it soft and hydrated.
Cons
- Some users find it slides off wet skin, preferring a foam texture.
- A few individuals with sensitive skin reported rashes.
Ingredients
Ingredients: Water, Myristic Acid, Glycerin, Potassium Hydroxide, Palmitic Acid, Stearic Acid, Olea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea) Butter, Allantoin, Hydroxyethylcellulose, Sodium Acetate, Isopropyl Alcohol, Tocopherol, Isopropyl Alcohol, Phenoxyethanol, Allantoin Acetate, Tetrasodium Glutamate Diacetate
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.
Stellar Shave Cream - Ursa Major
Welpr Rating
4.75
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$26.00
Product Details
- Minimizes nicks and cushions against razor burn for a smooth shave.
- Formulated with naturally-derived ingredients like hydrating shea and soothing aloe.
- Free from parabens, petrochemicals, sulfates, synthetic fragrances, and other harmful chemicals.
- Vegan and cruelty-free, suitable for both men and women.
- Perfect for shaving face, body, or any preferred area without irritation.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Made with clean, non-toxic ingredients, suitable for health-conscious users.
- Highly effective for sensitive skin, reducing irritation and razor burn.
- Cruelty-free and vegan, aligning with ethical lifestyle choices.
- A little goes a long way, offering great longevity.
- Thick and smooth consistency for a clean, non-messy shave.
Cons
- Some users may find the scent unappealing.
- Could clog razors if too much is applied, possibly extending shave time.
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, Water/Aqua/Eau, Helianthus Annuus Seed Oil*, Zinc Oxide Powder, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Glycerin, Salix Nigra Bark Extract, Avena Sativa Protein, Galactoarabinan, Butyrospermum Parkii Nut Butter, Betula Alba Sap, Arachidyl Alcohol, Behenyl Alcohol, Arachidyl Glucoside, Crithmum Maritimum Extract, Citrus Paradisi Peel Oil, Zingiber Officinale Root Oil*, Vetiveria Zizanoides Root Oil, Pseudotsuga Menziesii Needle Oil, Abies Balsamea Oil* (*Denotes Organic)
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 Shaving Cream
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Benzethonium Chloride
Benzalkonium chloride, when used as a spermaticide, can cause vaginal irritation. A fatal dose by ingestion is 1-3 grams, with symptoms including vomiting, convulsions, and coma. It is corrosive to eyes, a skin irritant, and can cause allergic contact dermatitis, methemoglobinemia and hemolysis. It has a potential to kill within 1-3 hours if concentrated solutions are ingested. Despite the threat it poses, there are no data on its carcinogenicity or teratogenicity and it doesn't interfere with embryo development in rats.
Cetrimonium Bromide
Cetrimonium Bromide is a versatile substance utilized in various products, including topical anti-bacterial and anti-fungal preparations, cosmetics, hair care, throat lozenges, antiseptic gels, and vaccine production. It serves as a surfactant and emulsifier and typically requires skin contact to cause a rash. Its applications range from skincare and haircare products to throat lozenges and vaccine production.
DEA Oleth-3 Phosphate
DEA Oleth-3 phosphate is employed in skincare as an emulsifying, cleansing, and dispersing agent that facilitates the cohesive mixing of oil and water ingredients in cosmetic products. It is a combination of ethoxylated fatty acid oleic acid and liquid phosphoric acid. However, ethanolamines like diethanolamine (DEA), found in various consumer products including cosmetics and cleaning products, have been associated with liver tumors. To reduce contamination from carcinogenic nitrosamines, the European Commission prohibits the use of DEA in cosmetics.
DEA-Cetyl Phosphate
DEA-Cetyl Phosphate serves as an emulsifier and surfactant in cosmetics and personal care products. However, it can accumulate in the liver and kidneys, leading to organ toxicity and potential neurotoxic effects like tremors. Maternal exposure to DEA may also have lasting impacts on memory function and brain development in offspring. Furthermore, DEA has been linked to male reproductive health issues, causing abnormalities in sperm structure and function.
Lauramide DEA
Lauramide DEA is an ethanolamide mixture of lauric acid commonly used in soaps, cleansers, and shampoos. It is known to cause mild to moderate eye irritation and mild to severe skin irritation. While the Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) Expert Panel has deemed it safe for use, caution is advised in cosmetics and personal care products that also contain nitrosating agents to prevent the formation of potentially carcinogenic nitrosamines.
Linoleamide MEA
Linoleamide MEA is utilized in cosmetics for functions such as foam boosting, antistatic properties, viscosity control, and hair conditioning. It is used in a wide range of consumer products, including cosmetics, personal care items, and household cleaning products. However, it has the potential to irritate the eyes and skin at higher concentrations and may cause short-term exposure-related effects on the central nervous system, nasal irritation, or pulmonary edema.
Myristamide DEA
Methylparaben is a non-volatile compound used as an antimicrobial preservative in various products, with contact exposure reported to cause dermatitis in some people. The mechanism of this sensitivity is not well understood, but it seems to intensify when applied to broken or damaged skin. Animal studies showed it to be generally non-toxic and non-carcinogenic, with no significant adverse effects noted at high exposure levels. There were contrasting findings on its effect in uterotrophic assays and its toxicity to sperm cells. In ecotoxicity studies, it affected the expression levels of genes in male Medaka fish at certain concentrations
Oleamide DEA
Oleamide DEA is utilized in shampoos, hair dyes, bath products, and lotions for enhancing foaming capacity, stabilizing foam, and thickening the water-based components. However, there is a concern that in cosmetics, DEA can react with other ingredients to create a carcinogen called nitrosodiethanolamine (NDEA), which can be absorbed through the skin.
Polyquaternium
Polyquaternium, modified polymers through quaternization are known for skin toxicity and allergenicity. Prolonged exposure, especially for hairdressers and janitors, may pose risks. It's found in various products, including hair conditioners, creams, and household cleaning items. Concerns include skin irritation, formaldehyde release, and contact dermatitis. Regulations in the EU limit Quaternium-15 to 0.2% in cosmetics, while the US lacks specific regulations.
Polytetrafluoroethylene
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly found in cosmetics, particularly anti-aging products, is favored for its smooth finish. PTFE is trademarked as Teflon® and is also used in non-stick cookware. However, concerns have arisen due to its fluorinated nature, linking it and similar compounds to delayed menstruation, delayed breast development, and cancer. These ingredients can be found in various cosmetic products like foundation, pressed powder, bronzer, blush, eye shadow, mascara, shave gel, lip balm, and anti-aging lotion.
Stearamide MEA
Stearamide Monoethanolamine (MEA) is an ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products like deodorants, shampoos, makeup, and bath items. Its role is to thicken the water-based part of these products and enhance their foaming properties and foam stability. MEA was found to be non-irritating to the skin at a 17% concentration, but it caused slight to moderate irritation to the eyes of rabbits.
Triethanolamine Lauryl Sulfate
An eye irritant; May cause corneal damage on prolonged contact; [CAMEO] A skin and eye irritant, based on animal studies; [IUCLID] An irritant; May cause serious eye injury; [MSDSonline] See Triethanolamine.
Benzalkonium Chloride
Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is an organic salt known for its robust antimicrobial properties, effective against various bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is frequently employed in healthcare settings like hospitals for disinfecting instruments and surfaces. Additionally, BAC is present in many consumer items, including hand sanitizers, wipes, eye solutions, nasal sprays, and personal care products such as soaps and shampoos. Although typically safe when used as instructed, BAC can lead to skin and eye irritation, particularly at elevated concentrations.
Sources:
Ecological Risk Analysis for Benzalkonium Chloride, Benzethonium Chloride, and Chloroxylenol in US Disinfecting and Sanitizing Products, Evaluation of pulmonary toxicity of benzalkonium chloride and triethylene glycol mixtures using in vitro and in vivo systems, Quaternary Ammonium Compounds in Cleaning Products, Impact of benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride and chloroxylenol on bacterial antimicrobial resistance, Benzalkonium Chloride, SpecialChem: benzalkonium-chloride, Impact of benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride and chloroxylenol on bacterial antimicrobial resistance
Diethanolamine
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.
Sources:
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 ,
Methylchloroisothiazolinone
5-chloro-2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (CMI) is a compound frequently used as a preservative in cosmetics, hygiene products, and other industrial applications such as hydraulic fracturing fluids. It can also be deployed as a pesticide in the U.S, pending regulatory approval. CMI, which is often used in combination with 2-methyl-4-isothiazolin-3-one (MI), can cause contact dermatitis in humans. Various animal studies have shown that a high exposure to a CMIT/MIT mixture can cause alterations in rats' liver function. The production and use of CMI in a range of products mean it can be release into the environment, with some susceptibility to degradation through photolysis in sunlight. Its mobility in soil is high but volatilization from soil or water surfaces is not expected to be significant. Occupational and general exposure to CMI can occur especially through inhalation and dermal contact with CMI-containing products.
Sources:
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
Methylisothiazolinone
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.
Sources:
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
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
Triethanolamine
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.
Sources:
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
Quaternium-15
Quaternium-15 is a preservative commonly used in cosmetics which is known to significantly contribute to allergic contact dermatitis in users. This condition has been reported in various professions, including hairdressers, machine maintenance engineers at a chicken processing plant, and photocopy workers. Notably, Quaternium-15, as a formaldehyde releaser, increases dermatitis risk. However, rinse-off products typically pose a lower risk of resulting in allergic contact dermatitis.
Authors
Camille May, Product Curator
Olushola M. Awoyemi, Medical Reviewer
