Chemicals in Personal Care Products: What Should You Know?

Long ingredient lists on shampoos, cleansers, toothpaste and cosmetics can look alarming. However, a chemical name is not evidence that an ingredient is dangerous. Safety depends on the substance, dose, concentration, route of exposure and how the product is used.

Are chemicals in cosmetics regulated in Australia?

Yes. Cosmetic ingredients in Australia are regulated under the industrial chemicals framework, while products making therapeutic claims may be regulated as therapeutic goods. Cosmetics also have ingredient-labelling and consumer safety requirements.

Does an industrial use make an ingredient unsafe?

No. The same chemical can have many different uses and very different concentrations. Saying an ingredient is also used in an industrial product does not establish that a cosmetic containing an approved concentration of that ingredient is harmful.

What is sodium lauryl sulphate?

Sodium lauryl sulphate, or SLS, is a surfactant. Surfactants help water mix with oils and dirt so they can be washed away. SLS is used in some shampoos, cleansers and toothpastes. It can irritate skin or eyes in some people, particularly at higher concentrations or with prolonged contact, but this is different from claiming that normal cosmetic use causes cancer or systemic toxicity.

What is propylene glycol?

Propylene glycol is used in many products as a solvent, humectant or carrier. The fact that propylene glycol can also have industrial applications does not mean a personal-care product containing it is equivalent to antifreeze. Some people can develop irritation or contact dermatitis, so individual sensitivity still matters.

What about fragrance?

Fragranced products can cause irritation, headaches or allergic contact dermatitis in susceptible people. If you have sensitive skin, eczema or a known fragrance allergy, choosing fragrance-free products may be useful.

Natural does not automatically mean safer

Plant-derived and “natural” ingredients can also irritate skin or trigger allergies. Essential oils, for example, contain biologically active compounds. It is better to judge a product by its ingredients, formulation and suitability for you than by marketing terms alone.

How to choose personal care products

Read the ingredient label, use products as directed and pay attention to how your skin responds. People with sensitive skin may benefit from simpler, fragrance-free formulations. Stop using a product that causes persistent irritation and seek professional advice if the reaction is significant.

Frequently asked questions

Are long chemical names a warning sign?

Not by themselves. Chemical names identify ingredients; they do not tell you whether the dose and exposure in a finished product are harmful.

Should I avoid SLS completely?

Most people do not need to. If SLS-containing products irritate your skin or mouth, an SLS-free alternative may suit you better.

Are natural cosmetics always better?

No. Natural ingredients can also cause irritation and allergy. Choose products based on your needs and how you tolerate them.

About Mick Jordan

Mick Jordan is a naturopath and Sports and Remedial Massage Therapist based in Brighton, Melbourne, with more than 30 years’ experience in natural therapies. He has a particular interest in nutrition, digestive health, sports performance and recovery, and takes an individual approach to helping clients improve their health and wellbeing.

This article provides general information only. If you have a persistent skin reaction, allergy or other health concern, seek advice from an appropriately qualified health professional.