How to Choose Safer Personal Care Products and Cosmetics: Expert Tips

With a daily routine often packed with products—from toothpaste to shampoo and makeup—many of us unknowingly expose ourselves to chemicals that can affect our health. Some cosmetics contain harmful substances like lead, formaldehyde, PFAS (known as “forever chemicals”), and phthalates, which can contribute to serious health issues including allergic reactions, reproductive harm, and even cancer. Additionally, these chemicals can negatively impact the environment.

Who's Most at Risk? Certain groups face higher risks from chemical exposure, such as children, teens, and pregnant individuals, as their developing bodies are more susceptible to harm from even low-level exposures. People who use or are exposed to many products, like beauty salon workers, also face increased risks. Studies indicate that women of color may experience disproportionate exposure due to targeted marketing of specific beauty products that often contain these chemicals.

Tips for Choosing Safer Personal Care Products

• Use Ingredient Checkers: Apps like Skin Deep, Think Dirty, Clearya, or Mamavation can help identify harmful chemicals in products and suggest safer alternatives.
• Avoid "Waterproof" or "Long-Lasting" Labels: These products often contain PFAS to enhance their staying power.
• Be Skeptical of “Natural” Labels: Terms like "organic" or "natural" don’t always mean chemical-free. Opt for products verified by third parties such as Made Safe or the Environmental Working Group.
• Find Informed Salons: Choose salons that prioritize using safe products or allow you to bring your own safer options.
• Simplify Your Routine: Reducing the number of products in your daily routine can limit your chemical exposure.