What Chemicals Are in Cosmetics?

Many people use cosmetics in some form or other on a daily basis, but they do not always take into consideration that chemicals are used in many of these products. Because some chemicals can potentially cause health problems, it is important to know what is in the products that you are using and what any side effects may be.

• Aloe Vera is used for a wide variety of cosmetic purposes, including lotions, hair shampoos, skin moisturizers, sunscreens, makeup, soaps, and shaving cream. It is advertised primarily for its healing and moisturizing qualities. Ingesting aloe vera juice can lead to diarrhea, dehydration and stomach cramps.


• Talc is a natural mineral composed of hydrated magnesium silicate. In cosmetics, it is used as baby powder, to freshen the skin, and to alleviate minor skin irritation. Talc, or talcum powder, is also related to asbestos and can have the same effects because it is made of equally fine dust particles. Talc powder can cause lung cancer if inhaled in excessive amounts.


• Benzoyl peroxide is used in acne medicine, but it's also found in facial masks, nail glue, shaving creams and soaps. It is a potential cancer-causing chemical that also disrupts certain hormones.


• Dioxane is a chemical used in body lotions, cleansers, hair shampoos, scrubs, and soaps. It permeates the skin and is suspected to cause cancer and respiratory problems.


• Lactate is another common chemical used in cosmetics. Also known as lactic acid and hydroxypropanoic acid, it is used in skin toners, cleansers, moisturizers, acne medicine, and skin conditioners. It is considered one of the safer ingredients in cosmetics.