Beauty Product Ingredients to Avoid: What's Really in Your Skincare

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Learn which beauty product ingredients to avoid and find safer alternatives for your skincare routine

After years of reading ingredient labels, one thing has become really clear: the front of the pack and the back of the pack often tell completely different stories. Those reassuring claims—"gentle," "natural," "dermatologist tested"—don't necessarily match up with what's actually listed in the ingredients. And once you start recognizing certain names and patterns, you see them everywhere.

If you've ever felt overwhelmed trying to decode what's actually in your skincare, you're not alone. Here's the thing worth knowing: in Australia, most personal care products—your daily moisturisers, shampoos, makeup—are largely self-regulated. Unless a product makes medical claims or falls under therapeutic categories, there's minimal government review before it hits the shelves. That means the responsibility for knowing what we're putting on our skin falls squarely on us.

Recent national health surveys show that nearly every Australian tested has measurable exposure to synthetic preservatives and plasticisers like parabens and phthalates. Scientists now understand far more about how these chemicals move through our bodies and how daily exposure adds up over time. Knowledge is your best tool here, so let's break down what actually matters—no fear-mongering, just facts you can use.

What You Need to Know About Ingredient Labels First

Before we dive into specific ingredients, it helps to understand how labelling actually works in Australia. Ingredients must be listed in descending order by weight—except for anything present at less than 1%, which can appear in any order. That means the first five to seven ingredients usually make up the bulk of what you're applying to your skin.

Here's where it gets tricky: "fragrance" or "parfum" is legally allowed as a catch-all term that can hide dozens of undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates. Australian regulations don't require brands to break down what's actually in that "fragrance." And terms like "natural," "clean," or "gentle"? They have no legal definition here. They're marketing language, not guarantees.

The 9 Ingredient Categories Worth Understanding

1. Parabens: The Preservative Under Scrutiny

Look for: methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, isobutylparaben

Why they're concerning: For decades, parabens were considered safe, effective preservatives. But modern research tells a different story. Studies published between 2022 and 2025, including Australian research, show that parabens can mimic estrogen in the body and disrupt hormone function. A 2024 study in Science of the Total Environment found parabens repeatedly associated with increased cancer cell activity in breast tissue. While older science hesitated to say they directly "cause" cancer, newer meta-analyses have identified dose-dependent relationships between paraben exposure and disrupted cellular processes linked to cancer growth.

Research published in Scientific Reports in 2025 examined associations between phenol and paraben exposure and breast cancer risk, finding concerning patterns. Another 2025 study in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology assessed the toxic effects of parabens and raised questions about their continued widespread use.

Where they hide: Moisturisers, shampoos, conditioners, makeup, body wash—even products marketed as "gentle" or designed for babies. They're cheap, effective preservatives, which is why they're still everywhere.

2. Phthalates: The Hidden Plasticisers

Look for: Here's the frustrating part—you usually won't see them listed. If a product lists "fragrance" or "parfum" without specifying essential oils, assume phthalates may be present.

Why they're concerning: Phthalates make scents last longer and help products maintain their texture. Australian government advisories and recent research link phthalates to endocrine disruption, reproductive health effects, and developmental concerns in children. The ABC reported in 2023 on how widespread exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals like phthalates has become in Australian households.

Where they're found: Any fragranced product—body lotion, hair spray, nail polish, perfume. The fragrance loophole is particularly problematic because consumers have no way to know what they're actually being exposed to.

3. Formaldehyde Releasers: The Slow-Leaking Preservatives

Look for: DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, imidazolidinyl urea, diazolidinyl urea

Why they're concerning: These preservatives don't contain formaldehyde outright, but they slowly release it over time as the product ages. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen and a common allergen. These ingredients show up frequently in products you use daily and leave on your skin for extended periods.

Where they hide: Shampoos, body washes, conditioners, liquid soaps—basically anything that needs a long shelf life and produces lather.

4. SLS and SLES: The Cheap Foaming Agents

Look for: Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)

Why they're concerning: These surfactants create that satisfying foam we associate with "clean," but they can cause skin irritation and strip away natural oils. More concerning is that SLES may contain trace amounts of 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen that forms during manufacturing. Because 1,4-dioxane is a contaminant rather than an ingredient, it won't appear on any label.

Where they're found: Shampoos, body washes, facial cleansers, toothpaste, bubble bath—anything that foams.

5. Synthetic Fragrances: The Mystery Mix

Look for: "Fragrance," "parfum," "aroma"—basically any generic term for scent

Why they're concerning: This is where things get really murky. A single "fragrance" listing can contain dozens of undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates, synthetic musks, and other potential allergens. The European Union has restricted many fragrance ingredients that are still allowed in Australia. Some synthetic musks have been found in human breast milk and are linked to hormone disruption. Learn more about fragrance chemicals in your products.

Where they're found: Almost everything—shampoos, body lotions, face creams, makeup, cleaning products, even "unscented" products that use masking fragrances.

6. Triclosan: The Antibacterial That's Not Worth It

Look for: Triclosan, triclocarban

Why they're concerning: These antibacterial agents were once touted as essential for hygiene, but research shows they may contribute to antibiotic resistance and hormone disruption. The FDA has banned triclosan from hand soaps, and many countries have restricted its use. There's no evidence that antibacterial soaps are more effective than regular soap and water.

Where they're found: Antibacterial soaps, hand sanitisers, some toothpastes, and cleaning products.

7. Oxybenzone and Other Chemical Sunscreen Filters

Look for: Oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, homosalate, octisalate, octocrylene

Why they're concerning: Chemical sunscreen filters, particularly oxybenzone, have been found in human blood samples and breast milk. Research suggests they may act as endocrine disruptors and have been linked to coral reef damage. Hawaii has banned oxybenzone and octinoxate due to environmental concerns. While sunscreen is crucial for skin cancer prevention, mineral-based options (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) are generally considered safer choices.

Where they're found: Most conventional sunscreens, especially those with high SPF ratings. Check the "active ingredients" section on the back of the bottle.

8. Aluminum Compounds: The Antiperspirant Active Ingredient

Look for: Aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium, aluminum chloride—basically anything starting with "aluminum"

Why they're concerning: Aluminum compounds are what actually stop you from sweating in antiperspirants (deodorants don't contain them). The concern centres on aluminum's potential to act as a metalloestrogen—a metal that mimics estrogen in the body. Research published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in December 2024 found that aluminum can interfere with the action of steroid hormones in ways typical for xenoestrogens, and applying antiperspirant in the area of the mammary gland, often on skin freshly irritated by shaving, facilitates aluminum penetration into the bloodstream.

While aluminum used in antiperspirants at FDA-specified concentrations is not classified as hazardous or carcinogenic, recent in vitro studies show it can cause gene instability, change gene expression, increase oxidative stress, and affect the body's hormonal balance. A comprehensive 2025 review noted that the potential association between aluminum-containing deodorants/antiperspirants and breast cancer has been investigated and debated, with some studies showing associations with thyroid hormone, testosterone level, kidney function, and pubertal timing.

The evidence isn't definitive, but multiple systematic reviews suggest in light of the precautionary principle, it's better to avoid antiperspirants that contain aluminum.

Where it's found: Antiperspirants (not plain deodorants). Check any product that claims to stop wetness or reduce sweating.

Better alternatives: Natural deodorants (without antiperspirant properties) that use ingredients like baking soda, arrowroot powder, or magnesium hydroxide to absorb moisture and neutralise odour without blocking sweat glands.

9. Synthetic Colours: The Unnecessary Additives

Look for: Anything starting with "FD&C" or "D&C" followed by a colour and number (like FD&C Red No. 6), or "CI" followed by a five-digit number

Why they're concerning: Many synthetic dyes are derived from petroleum and have been linked to skin irritation and allergic reactions. Some are restricted in other countries due to potential carcinogenic properties. Worth asking: does your shampoo really need to be bright purple?

Where they're found: Coloured soaps, shampoos, bath products, makeup, toothpaste.

What to Look for Instead: Safer Alternatives That Actually Work

The good news? Australian shelves now offer more transparent, health-forward options than ever before. You don't need to make everything from scratch or spend a fortune on boutique brands (though some are lovely if that's your thing).

Preservatives that are gentler:

• Phenoxyethanol: Often marketed as a paraben alternative, but it's not without concerns. While considered safer than parabens by some, research shows it can cause allergic reactions ranging from eczema to more severe responses. French health authorities have raised concerns about its use in products for young children, particularly in the nappy area. If you have sensitive skin or young kids, approach this one cautiously.
• Potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate: Plant-derived preservatives with good safety records

Moisturising ingredients to embrace:

• Natural oils and butters: Shea butter, cocoa butter, jojoba oil, coconut oil, almond oil
• Aloe vera, oat extract, green tea, chamomile: Simple, calming ingredients that actually nourish skin
• Sodium hyaluronate: A gentle, hydrating synthetic molecule that boosts moisture without irritation
• Vitamin E (tocopherol): An antioxidant and skin conditioner

For fragrance-free options:

• MooGoo offers Australian-made, fragrance-free products with short ingredient lists
• Aveeno has reliably plain, fragrance-free washes and moisturisers available at most supermarkets
• QV, Cetaphil, and CeraVe have fragrance-free ranges that are widely available and dermatologist-recommended

How to Start Making Changes (Without Overwhelming Yourself)

You don't need to overhaul your entire routine overnight. Start with the products that stay on your skin longest—moisturisers, serums, and anything you apply to your face. These have the most opportunity for absorption and potential impact.

• Week 1: Switch your daily moisturiser to something fragrance-free and paraben-free
• Week 2: Replace your body wash with a gentler, SLS-free option
• Week 3: Swap out your shampoo and conditioner
• Week 4: Look at your makeup routine—start with foundation or lip products

Pro tip: When you find a product you love, check if the brand makes other products you use. Many clean beauty brands offer complete ranges, making it easier to maintain consistency across your routine.

The Bottom Line

Reading ingredient labels isn't about achieving perfection—it's about making informed choices that align with your values and health goals. In Australia, where regulation is minimal, knowledge really is power. Start small, be patient with yourself, and remember that every positive change counts. Your skin (and your future self) will thank you for the effort.

References

• Chatterjee S. et al. "Parabens as the double-edged sword: implications in breast carcinogenesis." Science of the Total Environment, 2024.
• Janiga-MacNelly A. et al. "Assessment of the toxic effects of parabens, commonly used preservatives in cosmetics." Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology, 2025.
• Alnuqaydan AM. "The dark side of beauty: an in-depth analysis into endocrine disrupting chemicals and skin carcinogenesis." International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 2024.
• Xiong Y. et al. "Associations between phenol and paraben exposure and breast cancer risk." Scientific Reports, 2025.
• ACCC. "Cosmetics ingredients labelling mandatory standard." Productsafety.gov.au, 2024.
• Skincare Business Foundations. "Cosmetics regulations in Australia unpacked – 2025 update." 2025.
• Thomas T, Fat M, Kearns G. "Sunscreens: potential hazards to environmental and human health." Frontiers in Marine Science, 2024.
• Druml L, Ilyas AM, Ilyas EN. "The banned sunscreen ingredients and their impact on human health: a systematic review." Cureus, 2023.
• TGA. "TGA to consult on additional controls for some sunscreen ingredients." Therapeutic Goods Administration, July 2025.
• TGA. "Literature search and summaries of seven sunscreen active ingredients." Therapeutic Goods Administration, February 2025.
• Sawicka E, Wiatrowska N. "The Potential Metalloestrogenic Effect of Aluminum on Breast Cancer Risk for Antiperspirant Users." International Journal of Molecular Sciences, December 2024.
• Hangan T, et al. "Exploring the Potential Link between Aluminum-Containing Deodorants/Antiperspirants and Breast Cancer: A Comprehensive Review." Current Medicinal Chemistry, 2025.