The Ingredients I Choose to Leave Out

A little bit about me...

A few years ago, I was using a face cream that cost over $300 a jar. One day I happened to read the ingredient list and started researching what some of those ingredients actually were. What I discovered surprised me.

The cream contained a long list of ingredients that I couldn't pronounce, including synthetic preservatives, emulsifiers, fragrance compounds and petroleum-derived ingredients. While many of these ingredients are approved for use in cosmetics and are considered safe within regulated limits, I found myself wondering if there was a simpler alternative.

After all, our skin is our largest organ.

That curiosity led me down a rabbit hole of researching skincare ingredients, traditional skincare formulations and natural oils and butters. Before long, I was making my own balms and body butters at home using ingredients I recognised and understood.

Eventually, those homemade products became what is now Skindiy.

Not Everyone Reacts the Same

It's important to acknowledge that many people use conventional skincare products their entire lives without ever experiencing a problem.

However, some people develop sensitivities, allergies or skin reactions and are often left trying to work out what may be causing them.

I know this firsthand.

I personally experience severe migraines and chronic rhinitis from citric acid. Although citric acid occurs naturally in citrus fruits, the citric acid used in many commercial products is typically produced through a fermentation process. Most people have no issue with it whatsoever, but my experience reminded me that we are all different and that ingredients affect people differently.

For me, that was another reason to keep things simple.

A Different Approach

At Skindiy, I choose to formulate products with a small number of carefully selected ingredients.

Rather than creating products that require water, emulsifiers, stabilisers and multiple preservatives, I prefer using concentrated balms, oils and butters that naturally contain the nourishment your skin needs.

This doesn't mean synthetic ingredients are automatically bad or natural ingredients are automatically good. Nature can produce allergens too.

For me, it's about simplicity, transparency and understanding what I'm putting on my skin.

Did You Know?

Regulations differ significantly around the world.

The European Union has prohibited or restricted more than 1,300 cosmetic ingredients, with some sources placing the figure considerably higher depending on how restrictions are counted. In comparison, countries such as the United States have historically prohibited or restricted far fewer cosmetic ingredients at the federal level.

This doesn't necessarily mean products are unsafe. Rather, it highlights the different approaches regulators take when assessing risk and applying the precautionary principle.

Ingredients I Choose Not to Formulate With

The ingredients below are commonly used throughout the cosmetics industry. Many are approved for use by regulators around the world and can be used safely within permitted limits.

However, some consumers choose to minimise or avoid them due to personal preferences, sensitivities or concerns raised in scientific studies.

Parabens

Commonly used as preservatives.

Why some people avoid them:
Concerns have been raised regarding potential hormone-mimicking activity and endocrine disruption.

Phthalates

Often found in fragrances and plastics.

Why some people avoid them:
Potential concerns regarding endocrine disruption and reproductive health.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

Common cleansing and foaming agents.

Why some people avoid them:
Can be drying or irritating for some skin types, particularly sensitive skin.

Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives

Examples include DMDM Hydantoin and Imidazolidinyl Urea.

Why some people avoid them:
Potential for skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Triclosan

Previously used in antibacterial products.

Why some people avoid it:
Environmental concerns and questions around long-term exposure.

Mineral Oil

A petroleum-derived ingredient commonly used in skincare.

Why some people avoid it:
Some individuals find it too occlusive for their skin or prefer plant-based alternatives.

Propylene Glycol

Used as a humectant and penetration enhancer.

Why some people avoid it:
Can cause irritation or sensitivity in some individuals and may increase the penetration of other ingredients through the skin.

PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols)

Commonly used as emulsifiers and texture enhancers.

Why some people avoid them:
Concerns around manufacturing impurities and their ability to increase ingredient penetration.

Phenoxyethanol

A preservative used to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi.

Why some people avoid it:
Potential skin and eye irritation in sensitive individuals.

Synthetic Fragrance (Parfum)

Often made up of numerous individual ingredients.

Why some people avoid it:
Can trigger skin irritation, headaches or allergic reactions in sensitive people.

BHT & BHA

Synthetic preservatives and antioxidants.

Why some people avoid them:
Concerns have been raised regarding potential endocrine and carcinogenic effects, although regulatory authorities continue to permit their use within established limits.

EDTA (Disodium EDTA & Tetrasodium EDTA)

Used to improve stability and shelf life.

Why some people avoid it:
Environmental persistence and concerns about enhancing the penetration of other ingredients.

Oxybenzone

A common sunscreen ingredient.

Why some people avoid it:
Concerns regarding skin sensitivity, environmental impact and hormone-related effects.

Talc

Found in some powders and cosmetics.

Why some people avoid it:
Historical concerns regarding contamination and inhalation of fine particles.

PFAS ("Forever Chemicals")

Used in some long-wear and water-resistant cosmetic products.

Why some people avoid them:
Environmental persistence and concerns regarding accumulation over time.

Coal Tar Dyes

Synthetic colourants used in some cosmetic products.

Why some people avoid them:
Potential sensitivity concerns and manufacturing contaminants.

Toluene

Found in some nail products and cosmetic formulations.

Why some people avoid it:
Potential respiratory irritation and neurological effects with repeated exposure.

Small Changes Add Up

If you're interested in using more natural products, my advice is simple:

Don't throw everything out and start again.

Instead, replace one product at a time.

Maybe it's your moisturiser.
Maybe it's your cleanser.
Maybe it's your deodorant.
Maybe it's your household cleaning products.

Small changes are easier to maintain and allow you to discover what works best for you and your family.

My Philosophy

At the end of the day, I believe skincare doesn't need to be complicated.

Some of my favourite products contain only four or five ingredients.

I like knowing exactly what's in them, why it's there and what purpose it serves.

That doesn't mean everyone needs to agree with me, but it's the philosophy that inspired Skindiy and continues to guide every product I make today.

Thank you for reading.

Cherith xo

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and reflects my personal opinions and experiences. The ingredients discussed are widely used within the cosmetic industry and many are approved for use within regulated limits. Individuals may respond differently to skincare ingredients and consumers should conduct their own research and seek professional advice where appropriate.