We all know how important lotion is for our skin. It is crucial because of the moisture it delivers after a fresh round of cleansing. Especially in these cold, winter months where dry skin reigns supreme. However, a lot of lotions that come from most drug stores and mainstream skincare retailers contain harmful ingredients that can cause you severe harm (even cancer!)

Here are 5 ingredients that are commonly found in body lotions that you should try your best to avoid

1.Parabens are common preservatives found in every type of skincare product, including body lotions. They are used to prevent your lotion from growing bacteria and mold inside of the bottle to keep it in use for a longer period of time. But these chemicals are endocrine disrupters that cause imbalances in hormones that can lead to conditions like cancer, thyroiditis, and diabetes (types 1 & 2). Some forms of parabens are banned in Denmark. 

2.Fragrances are any type of perfume, cologne, or artificial scent that are used in many lotions. Although it may smell nice, the companies are able to put any kind of carcinogenic chemical (like styrene) they want into your lotion as long as they label it a “fragrance”. This is a legal technicality in FDA regulations that the skincare and cosmetics companies use commonly referred to as the “fragrance loophole.” These ingredients cause the same things parabens cause and are banned in the E.U.

3.Phthalates are a category of chemicals that show up in moisturizers as well as nail polishes, perfumes, and color cosmetics. They can also be labeled as “fragrances” under the FDA statute. These chemicals are known to be carcinogenic and sources of developmental and reproductive toxicity (birth defects and infertility)! Some types of phthalates are also banned in the whole E.U. 

4.Polyethylene glycol (PEG) is a type of chemical that is derived from petroleum (yes, like crude oil!) and acts as an emollient. They are found in approximately 22% of petroleum-based cosmetics and any type of household cleaner that makes suds. They also cause cancer and birth defects in the long term and additionally, they dry your skin out since they strip all the natural oils from your skin’s surface. They are banned in both the E.U. and Canada. 

5.Formaldehyde and formaldehyde-based preservatives are gas with a very strong, very distinct smell. It’s what your brand new clothes or bedsheets smell like before you put them in the wash for the first time. About 1 in 5 cosmetic products, lotions included, contain formaldehyde in them. This gas can lead to cancer, skin irritation, and allergic reactions. The gas is banned outright in Sweden and Japan and its use is restricted in Canada and the E.U. (every product that has it has a “contains formaldehyde” sticker on it). 

Keep yourself chemical and cancer-free by avoiding these ingredients! Always check the label on your lotion and do your research on the chemicals it lists! And remember, if you can’t pronounce the ingredient listed, you should look for a different lotion instead!

Happy shopping!