Clean Ingredients Checker
Curious if your beauty products contain harmful ingredients? Simply copy and paste the ingredient list into our tool below, and Conscious Bunny’s Clean Ingredients Checker will instantly analyze it for you. We’ll provide clear insights into whether the product is non-toxic and safe or if it contains any ingredients that the FDA, Sephora Clean, and EU Laws prohibit.
Ready to check your products? Paste the ingredients into Conscious Bunny’s Clean Ingredients Checker and click “Analyze” to discover potentially hidden chemicals, toxins, or other harmful ingredients.
*We’ve tested our Clean Ingredients Checker and found it to be very accurate. However, due to variations in ingredient lists and terminology, we can’t guarantee 100% accuracy. We recommend cross-referencing your products with the full ingredient list below for the most reliable results.
What Does “Clean” Mean?
Clean beauty refers to products that don’t contain harmful ingredients. It’s a response to growing health concerns over ingredients like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and synthetic fragrances—ingredients that research has shown might be harmful to humans, and in some cases, animals and the environment.
However, the term “clean beauty” is a bit controversial because it’s not officially regulated. This means brands can label their products with terms like ‘clean,’ ‘green,’ ‘organic,’ and ‘natural’ without clear standards or oversight.
What qualifies as “clean” can vary from brand to brand or from person to person, making it harder for you to know exactly what you’re getting. That’s why we created the Clean Ingredients Checker—so you can easily find out which products are truly free from harmful ingredients and make safer, more informed choices!
Toxic Ingredients List
Here’s a list of common toxic ingredients, organized alphabetically for easy reference. Check your beauty products against this list and the results of our Clean Ingredients Checker to ensure you’re avoiding ingredients that (may) be harmful to your health.
| Ingredient | Why It’s Harmful |
| 1,4 Dioxane | A potential carcinogen; can cause liver and kidney damage, eye irritation, and is often contaminated in products. |
| 2-Acetylhydroquinone | Can cause skin irritation and may be toxic to the liver and kidneys. |
| 2-bromo-2-nitropropane-1,3-diol | A formaldehyde releaser that can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. |
| 2,6-Dihydroxyethylaminotoluene | Linked to skin and eye irritation; can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. |
| 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene | Known to cause skin and eye irritation, and may have links to cancer. |
| 4-Amino-2-Hydroxytoluene Sulfate | Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. |
| 4-Methoxytoluene-2,5-Diamine HCl | Can be toxic if absorbed through the skin or ingested, and cause allergic reactions. |
| Acacetone | A solvent that can cause skin irritation and headaches; potentially harmful if inhaled. |
| Acetaldehyde | A carcinogen that can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system, and damage the liver. |
| Acetyl Hexamethyl Indan | Potentially irritating to the skin and eyes. |
| Acetyl Hexamethyl Tetralin | Can cause skin and eye irritation, and has potential hormonal effects. |
| Aluminum chloride | Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions; some studies link it to Alzheimer’s disease. |
| Aluminum chlorohydrate | Linked to skin irritation and may contribute to the risk of Alzheimer’s disease due to aluminum buildup. |
| Aluminum chlorohydrex | Similar risks as aluminum chlorohydrate, causing irritation and potential neurotoxicity. |
| Aluminum dichlorohydrate | Can cause irritation and skin sensitivity; concerns over long-term exposure to aluminum. |
| Aluminum sesquichlorohydrate | Associated with irritation and potential neurotoxic effects, especially when used in antiperspirants. |
| Aluminum zirconium octachlorohydrate | Can cause irritation and may have neurotoxic effects from prolonged exposure. |
| Aluminum zirconium octachlorohydrex gly | Similar to other aluminum compounds, it can cause irritation and has potential long-term health risks. |
| Aluminum zirconium pentachlorohydrate | May irritate the skin and has been linked to neurotoxic effects with long-term use. |
| Aluminum zirconium pentachlorohydrex gly | Same concerns as other aluminum-based compounds in cosmetics, with potential for irritation and health risks. |
| Aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrate | Known to cause irritation and has potential long-term health risks, such as aluminum toxicity. |
| Aluminum zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly | Similar risks to other aluminum compounds used in antiperspirants. |
| Aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrate | Can cause skin irritation and concerns over neurotoxicity with long-term use. |
| Aluminum zirconium trichlorohydrex gly tot | Similar risks to other aluminum compounds, including irritation and potential neurotoxicity. |
| Animal Derived Ingredients | Ethical concerns; can also be allergenic and cause irritation in some individuals. |
| Animal Fats | Can be comedogenic (pore-clogging) and irritating for sensitive skin. |
| Animal Musk | Can cause allergic reactions and is considered unsustainable and harmful to animals. |
| Animal Oils | Can cause skin irritation, clog pores, and are not suitable for those with sensitive skin. |
| Benzalkonium chloride | Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, and is toxic to aquatic life. |
| Benzophenones | May disrupt hormones, cause skin irritation, and are linked to possible cancer risks. |
| Benzylhemiformal | A formaldehyde releaser, which can cause irritation and is a known allergen. |
| Bisphenol A (BPA) | Known endocrine disruptor linked to hormone imbalances, developmental issues, and cancer. |
| BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) | A potential carcinogen, can cause skin irritation, and disrupt hormonal functions. |
| BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene) | Potential skin irritant, disrupts hormones, and may contribute to liver and kidney damage. |
| Bromostyrene | Known to be toxic to humans and animals, causing irritation and potential long-term health risks. |
| Butylated Hydroxyanisole | Same concerns as BHA, including potential carcinogenic effects and skin irritation. |
| Butoxyethanol | Can cause skin and eye irritation and has been linked to reproductive toxicity in animal studies. |
| Butyl methacrylate | Can cause skin irritation and is linked to respiratory issues and allergic reactions. |
| Calcium Disodium EDTA | Can cause skin irritation and may interfere with the body’s ability to absorb minerals. |
| Carbon Black or Black 2 | Linked to respiratory issues and considered a possible carcinogen due to its inhalation risk. |
| Chemical Sunscreens | Some chemical filters are linked to hormone disruption, skin irritation, and coral reef damage. |
| Coal Tar | A known carcinogen; can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and is banned in some countries. |
| Cyclomethicone | Can cause skin irritation and is not biodegradable, causing environmental concerns. |
| Cyclopentasiloxane or D5 | Linked to skin irritation, and long-term environmental concerns due to persistence in nature. |
| Cyclotetrasiloxane or D4 | Known to be harmful to aquatic life and can cause skin irritation. |
| Cyclohexasiloxane or D6 | Similar concerns as other silicones, including skin irritation and environmental impact. |
| Dea-styrene/acrylates/dvb copolymer | Can cause skin irritation and is a possible endocrine disruptor. |
| Diazolidinyl urea | A formaldehyde releaser that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. |
| Diethanolamine (DEA) | Can cause skin irritation, eye damage, and may contribute to carcinogenic effects when combined with nitrites. |
| Di-t-Butylhydroquinone | Can cause skin irritation and may disrupt hormonal function. |
| Disodium EDTA | A potential skin irritant and may also lead to the accumulation of heavy metals in the body. |
| Ingredient | Why It’s Harmful |
| Ethanolamines | Can cause skin and eye irritation, and some may lead to carcinogenic effects when combined with other chemicals. |
| Ethanolamine (ETA) | Can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system; may contribute to the formation of cancer-causing compounds. |
| Ethyl acrylate | Known to be a skin irritant and possible carcinogen, especially if inhaled. |
| Ethyl methacrylate | Can cause skin and eye irritation, and respiratory issues. |
| Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) | Potential endocrine disruptor, causes skin irritation, and contributes to coral reef damage. |
| Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) | Can cause skin irritation and may act as an environmental pollutant. |
| Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid | Similar to EDTA, can cause skin irritation and environmental damage. |
| Formaldehyde | A known carcinogen, causes skin irritation, respiratory issues, and may lead to DNA damage. |
| Formaldehyde (releaser) | A formaldehyde releaser, which can cause allergic reactions, skin irritation, and respiratory problems. |
| Hydroquinone | A skin lightener that can cause irritation, allergies, and has been linked to cancer in high concentrations. |
| Hydroquinone (Safflowerates) | Can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and possible toxicity when absorbed through the skin. |
| Hydroxypropyl methacrylate | Can cause skin irritation and sensitization, potentially leading to allergic reactions. |
| Imidazolidinyl urea | A formaldehyde releaser that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and sensitivity. |
| Lead and Lead Acetate | Known neurotoxin and carcinogen, can cause developmental issues, organ damage, and reproductive toxicity. |
| Methyl Cellosolve (2-Methoxyethanol) | Can cause skin irritation, eye damage, and is toxic to the liver and kidneys with prolonged exposure. |
| Methylchloroisothiazolinone | A strong skin and eye irritant, linked to allergic reactions and has been banned in some countries due to safety concerns. |
| Methylisothiazolinone | Similar to methylchloroisothiazolinone, can cause severe skin irritation, allergic reactions, and toxicity. |
| Methyl methacrylate | A skin and eye irritant, potentially harmful when inhaled, and may cause allergic reactions. |
| Methylene bis-benzotriazolyl tetramethylbutylphenol | Known to cause skin irritation, and has been flagged for potential hormone disruption and environmental damage. |
| Methylene chloride | A carcinogen that can cause respiratory issues, liver damage, and skin irritation. |
| Mineral Oil | Can clog pores, leading to acne, and may contain harmful impurities; some concerns over long-term use. |
| Mineral Oil (refined) | May cause skin irritation and clogged pores; possible contamination with harmful substances. |
| Methenamine | May cause skin irritation, especially in high concentrations, and has been linked to kidney damage. |
| Methoxyethanol | A solvent that can cause skin and eye irritation, and may have reproductive toxicity with prolonged exposure. |
| Musk ketone | Associated with allergic reactions, skin irritation, and environmental persistence. |
| Nanomaterials | Can penetrate skin deeply and potentially cause toxicity, particularly in large quantities or long-term use. |
| Nanoparticles | Similar to nanomaterials, can enter cells and tissues, causing potential harm to health and the environment. |
| Naphtha distillate | A toxic substance that can cause skin and eye irritation, and respiratory issues when inhaled. |
| Naphtha Multiple | Similar risks to naphtha distillates, causing skin irritation and potential toxicity when absorbed. |
| Nitromusks | Synthetic musks that can be endocrine disruptors and environmental contaminants. |
| Oxybenzone | Known endocrine disruptor, causes skin irritation, and is harmful to aquatic life and coral reefs. |
| Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate) | Linked to hormone disruption, skin irritation, and environmental damage to coral reefs. |
| Octyl methoxycinnamate (Octinoxate) | Similar to octinoxate, can disrupt hormones and damage the environment, particularly coral reefs. |
| Ingredient | Why It’s Harmful |
| Parabens (Methylparaben, Ethylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben, Isobutylparaben, Benzylparaben) | Endocrine disruptors that can mimic hormones, potentially leading to reproductive issues, cancer, and developmental problems. |
| Perfluorinated compounds (PFASs or PFCs) | Known as “forever chemicals” that persist in the environment, linked to hormone disruption, cancer, and liver damage. |
| Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) | A carcinogen that can cause liver damage, developmental issues, and is toxic to the immune system. |
| Petrolatum and Paraffin | Can clog pores, may contain impurities, and is linked to environmental pollution; may disrupt the endocrine system. |
| Petrolatum | Can cause skin irritation, clog pores, and may contain harmful contaminants; concerns about long-term exposure. |
| Phthalates | Endocrine disruptors that can harm reproductive health, cause developmental issues, and potentially lead to cancer. |
| Phenoxyethanol | A preservative that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and may be toxic in high concentrations. |
| Plastic Microbeads | Non-biodegradable, harmful to marine life, and can carry toxins into ecosystems when ingested. |
| Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) | Known for its persistence in the environment, can release toxic fumes when overheated, and is a potential carcinogen. |
| Polyacrylamide | Can be a skin irritant and may contain harmful impurities, including acrylamide, a potential carcinogen. |
| Polycyclic Musks | Harmful to aquatic life, persistent in the environment, and may disrupt hormones in humans and animals. |
| Potassium Toluenesulfonate | Can cause skin and eye irritation, and may lead to allergic reactions. |
| Quaternium-15 | A formaldehyde releaser, it can cause skin irritation, allergies, and may be toxic with prolonged exposure. |
| Resorcinol | Can cause skin irritation, sensitivity, and has been linked to thyroid disruption and potential organ damage. |
| Retinyl Palmitate | A form of Vitamin A that can increase the risk of sun damage, and may be linked to cancer and developmental issues. |
| Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) | Can irritate the skin, eyes, and scalp, and may cause long-term dryness or damage with frequent use. |
| Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) | Similar to SLS, it can cause skin irritation, dryness, and environmental pollution. |
| Sodium Styrene/divinylbenzene copolymer | Known to cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and has potential environmental impacts. |
| Sodium Toluenesulfonate | Can cause skin irritation, and it may be toxic to the liver and kidneys with prolonged exposure. |
| Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate | A preservative that can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and may release formaldehyde. |
| Styrene | A carcinogen that can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and nervous system damage. |
| Styrene oxide | A volatile compound that can cause skin and eye irritation, headaches, and is linked to cancer. |
| Sulfates | Known to cause skin irritation and dryness, and may disrupt the skin’s natural barrier. |
| Tar | Can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and is linked to cancer and other long-term health issues. |
| Tetrahydrofurfuryl methacrylate | Can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and is a potential eye irritant. |
| Toluene | A neurotoxin that can cause headaches, dizziness, skin irritation, and long-term damage to organs with prolonged exposure. |
| Toluene Sulfonic Acid | Can cause skin and eye irritation, and may lead to organ damage with prolonged exposure. |
| Toluene-2,5-Diamine | Can irritate the skin and eyes, and has been linked to reproductive and developmental toxicity. |
| Toluene-2,5-Diamine Sulfate | Similar to Toluene-2,5-Diamine, it can cause irritation and has potential reproductive toxicity. |
| Toluene-2,6-Diamine | A skin and eye irritant, linked to respiratory issues, and potential reproductive toxicity. |
| Toluene-3,4-Diamine | Similar to other Toluene diamines, it can irritate skin and eyes and has potential long-term health effects. |
| Trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate | Can cause skin irritation and may lead to allergic reactions or sensitization. |
| Triclocarban | A potential endocrine disruptor, causes skin irritation, and has been linked to antibiotic resistance. |
| Triclosan | An antibacterial agent that can disrupt hormones, contribute to antibiotic resistance, and harm aquatic life. |
| Triclosan and Triclocarban | Both contribute to environmental damage, hormone disruption, and skin irritation. |
| Titanium Dioxide* | It is generally safe to use, however, it can be harmful when inhaled. Be cautious with loose powder containing this, for example. |
| Toluene | (Repeated) A neurotoxin, causing headaches, dizziness, and organ damage with prolonged exposure. |
| Zinc Oxide | Generally considered safe but can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals, especially in large amounts. |
Besides this Clean Ingredients Checker, we have other free Ingredient Checkers to use.