SKIN IS YOUR BODY'S LARGEST ORGAN

Not "All Natural” Skincare Products are What They Claim to Be

Everything you apply to your skin gets absorbed into your body and your bloodstream, which means your skincare choices matter more than you think. At Nature-Derm, we don’t just avoid harmful ingredients, we eliminate them entirely. Our formulas are free from phthalates, parabens, BPA’s, PEG's, triclosan, toluene, oxybenzone, formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrances. Unfortunately, many so-called “natural” brands still include these toxic additives behind clever marketing. That’s why our YouTube series goes beyond the label, breaking down what’s really in your skincare, why it matters, and how

Nature-Derm offers a safer, more effective alternative using only all-natural ingredients you can trust.

Press the down arrow to learn more about each toxic chemical

Common Toxic Chemicals Used in Other Companies Skincare and Why You Should Avoid Them

Phthalates

What Are Phthalates and Why Should You Avoid Them?

Phthalates (pronounced thal-ates) are a group of chemical compounds commonly used to make plastics more flexible and to help fragrances “stick” to your skin in personal care products. In skincare and cosmetics, they’re often hidden behind vague terms like “fragrance” or “parfum.”

Why it matters:

Phthalates are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can interfere with your body’s hormone system. Research has linked them to a range of health concerns, including:

  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Reproductive and developmental issues
  • Increased risk of allergies and asthma
  • Potential links to certain cancers

Other Names for Phthalates

DBP – Dibutyl phthalate

DEP – Diethyl phthalate

DEHP – Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate

DMP – Dimethyl phthalate

BBP – Butyl benzyl phthalate

DnOP – Di-n-octyl phthalate

DiDP – Diisodecyl phthalate

Even low-level, repeated exposure like applying lotion or using soap daily can add up over time.

At Nature-Derm, we never use phthalates.

We believe your skincare should support your health, not put it at risk. That’s why we keep our formulas clean, transparent, and 100% phthalate-free.

Parabens

What Are Parabens and Why Should You Avoid Them?

Parabens are a class of synthetic preservatives used in many skincare, haircare, and cosmetic products to extend shelf life and prevent mold and bacteria growth.

Other Names for Parabens

  • Methylparaben
  • Propylparaben
  • Butylparaben
  • Ethylparaben
  • Isobutylparaben
  • Isopropylparaben
  • Benzylparaben

Why they’re harmful:

Parabens are known endocrine disruptors, meaning they can mimic estrogen in the body and interfere with hormone function. Research has raised concerns linking parabens to:

  • Hormonal imbalances
  • Fertility issues
  • Early puberty
  • Increased risk of breast cancer

They’ve even been detected in human breast tissue raising concerns about long-term accumulation through daily exposure.

At Nature-Derm, we never use parabens in any form.

Our products are preserved with safe, natural alternatives that protect your skin and your health without compromising effectiveness.

BPA's

What Are BPA's and Why Should You Avoid Them?

BPA (Bisphenol A) is a chemical commonly used in plastics and packaging — especially in bottles, lids, and containers. In skincare, BPA can leach from packaging into the product itself, especially when exposed to heat or stored for long periods.

Why it’s dangerous:

BPA is a well-documented endocrine disruptor, meaning it can mimic estrogen and interfere with the body’s hormone balance. Studies have linked BPA exposure to:

  • Hormonal imbalance
  • Fertility problems
  • Breast and prostate cancer risks
  • Early puberty in children
  • Neurological and developmental concerns

Other Names for BPA's

Bisphenol A
Bisphenol S
Bisphenol F
Polycarbonate plastics
Epoxy resins
BPA-derived packaging
Thermal paper coating
Resin identification code 7 (often contains BPA)

Even trace amounts of BPA have raised red flags among toxicologists — and it has already been banned in baby bottles in many countries.

Nature-Derm is 100% BPA-free, always.

We don’t just choose clean ingredients. We choose clean packaging too, because what holds your skincare matters as much as what’s inside it.

PEG's

What Are PEGs and Why Should You Avoid Them?

PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols) are petroleum-based compounds commonly used in skincare and cosmetics as thickeners, softeners, and penetration enhancers. You’ll often find them in moisturizers, cleansers, and creams under names like PEG-8, PEG-40, or PEG-100 Stearate.

Why they’re harmful:

While PEGs may make products feel smooth and luxurious, they come with serious concerns:

  • They can strip your skin’s natural moisture barrier, leading to dryness, sensitivity, and irritation.
  • They’re often contaminated with toxic byproducts like 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide, both linked to cancer and organ toxicity.
  • They increase skin permeability, which can allow other toxic ingredients to absorb deeper into the body.


PEGs offer convenience and cosmetic appeal, but at the cost of long-term skin health.

Other Names for PEG's:
Polyethylene Glycol
PEG-4
PEG-8
PEG-12
PEG-20
PEG-40
PEG-100 Stearate
Ceteareth-20
Ceteareth-12
Polysorbate 20
Polysorbate 80

At Nature-Derm, we never use PEGs or the shortcuts they represent.

Our formulas are designed to work with your skin, not against it, using plant-based ingredients that hydrate, protect, and support the skin's natural function.

Triclosan

What Is Triclosan and Why Is It Dangerous?

Triclosan is a synthetic antibacterial and antifungal agent once widely used in soaps, toothpaste, deodorants, and skincare products. It was marketed as a way to kill germs — but it does far more harm than good.

Why it’s harmful:

  • Endocrine Disruption: Triclosan has been shown to interfere with hormone regulation and thyroid function.
  • Antibiotic Resistance: Overuse of triclosan may contribute to the rise of “superbugs” — bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics.
  • Environmental Damage: Triclosan doesn’t break down easily, contaminates water supplies, and is toxic to aquatic life.
  • Skin Irritation: It can cause dryness, allergic reactions, and disrupt the skin’s natural microbiome.

So serious are the risks that the FDA banned triclosan in over-the-counter hand soaps in 2016, yet it still appears in many personal care products under various names such as:

Triclosan

Triclocarban

Irgasan

Microban

Biofresh

Lexol 300

Ster-Zac

Cloxifenolum

2,4,4'-Trichloro-2'-hydroxydiphenyl ether.

Nature-Derm is 100% triclosan-free because your skin doesn't need synthetic germ-killers. It needs balance, hydration, and ingredients it can recognize.

Toluene

What Is Toluene and Why Is It Dangerous?

Toluene is a volatile petrochemical solvent commonly used in nail polish, hair dyes, and some cosmetic products. It's known to cause skin irritation, respiratory issues, and has been linked to nervous system effects and reproductive harm with prolonged exposure. Despite its risks, it's still found in some beauty and personal care products under various names:

Toluene
Methylbenzene
Phenylmethane
Toluol
Benzene derivatives
Coal tar derivatives
BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene), a related synthetic antioxidant

At Nature-Derm, we don’t use toluene or any chemical that compromises your health.

Our commitment to clean, all-natural skincare means every ingredient is chosen to nourish, protect, and support your skin, never to harm it.

Oxybenzone

Why You Should Avoid Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone is a chemical compound commonly found in conventional sunscreens, moisturizers with SPF, and some skincare products claiming UV protection. It works by absorbing UV rays — but what it does to your body and the environment is far more concerning.

The Health Risks:
Oxybenzone has been identified as a hormone disruptor, capable of mimicking estrogen and interfering with the body’s endocrine system. Studies have linked it to:

  • Hormonal imbalance and thyroid disruption.
  • Increased risk of allergic skin reactions
  • Potential reproductive toxicity
  • Detection in breast milk and blood plasma

It’s also been shown to , meaning even topical application can result in internal exposure. Beyond personal health, oxybenzone has been banned in places like Hawaii due to its devastating effects on coral reefs and marine ecosystems.

Other names:

Oxybenzone
Benzophenone-3
Benzophenone-4
Benzophenone-8
Sulizobenzone
Mexenone
BP-3 (common abbreviation for benzophenone-3)

At Nature-Derm, we believe sun protection should never come at the cost of your health. That’s why we will never use oxybenzone or any UV filter known to cause harm. Our commitment to clean, all-natural skincare means we prioritize ingredients that are safe, effective, and environmentally responsible. You won’t find hidden toxins in our formulas, just powerful plant-based solutions that nourish and protect your skin the way nature intended.

Formaldehyde

Why You Should Avoid Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas commonly used in cosmetics, hair straightening treatments, and some skincare products as a preservative or as a byproduct of other chemical compounds. While it helps prevent bacterial growth, its dangers far outweigh its benefits.

The Health Risks:
Formaldehyde is a known human carcinogen, according to the U.S. National Toxicology Program and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Exposure — even at low levels — has been associated with:

  • Skin irritation and allergic reactions
  • Eye, nose, and throat sensitivity
  • Respiratory issues
  • Long-term cancer risk with repeated exposure

It’s especially harmful when used in products that are heated or aerosolized, like some hair smoothing treatments or sprays. Formaldehyde may not be listed outright. It’s often released slowly by ingredients known as “formaldehyde-releasers,” including:

Formaldehyde
Formalin
Methanal
Methylene glycol
Quaternium-15
DMDM hydantoin
Diazolidinyl urea
Imidazolidinyl urea
Bronopol
Sodium hydroxymethylglycinate
Glyoxal

At Nature-Derm, we believe safety starts with transparency and integrity. That’s why we strictly avoid not just formaldehyde itself but also any ingredient known to release it over time. Our products are preserved naturally, without toxic shortcuts, so you can feel confident in what you're putting on your skin. Clean, effective skincare shouldn't come with hidden health risks and with Nature-Derm, it never will.

Synthetic Fragrances

“Synthetic fragrance” or simply “fragrance” on a product label may seem harmless — but it’s often a catch-all term for dozens or even hundreds of undisclosed chemicals. These artificial scent blends are designed to mimic natural aromas or create signature smells, but manufacturers aren’t legally required to list their individual components. That means you have no idea what you’re actually putting on your skin. Synthetic fragrances are one of the top causes of skin allergies, irritation, and sensitization in skincare products. Worse, many contain hidden toxins like phthalates, formaldehyde-releasing agents, and petrochemical solvents. These compounds have been linked to:

  • Hormone disruption
  • Respiratory issues
  • Headaches and migraines
  • Reproductive toxicity
  • Environmental pollution

Because fragrance ingredients are protected as “trade secrets,” consumers are left in the dark about what’s actually inside the products they use every day.

Other names:

Fragrance
Parfum
Aroma
Synthetic musk
Phthalates (commonly used to stabilize synthetic fragrance)
Aldehydes
Linalool
Limonene
Citronellol
Eugenol
Coumarin
Geraniol
Hexyl cinnamal
Alpha-isomethyl ionone
Benzyl alcohol
Benzyl salicylate

At Nature-Derm, we believe fragrance should never come at the cost of your health. That’s why we never use synthetic or hidden fragrance blends, only gentle, all-natural scents derived from essential oils and plant extracts, and always in skin-safe concentrations. Our commitment to radical transparency means you’ll never have to guess what’s in your skincare. What’s on the label is exactly what you’re getting — clean, pure, and honest.

Why Do So Many Brands Still Use Harmful Chemicals?

THE SHORT ANSWER IS: THEY'RE CHEAP, CONVENIENT AND CAN BE EFFECTIVE, BUT NOT SAFE. Many conventional skincare brands use synthetic chemicals because:

THEY'RE INEXPENSIVE TO PRODUCE AT SCALE. Natural alternatives often cost more and have shorter shelf lives.

THEY EXTEND PRODUCT SHELF LIFE. Chemical preservatives can keep products stable for years, even if they're harsh on your skin.

THEY CREATE TEXTURE, FOAM, FRAGRANCE OR SPREADABILITY. Additives like PEGs and sulfates make lotions feel silky or help shampoos foam, but can strip and irritate your skin.

CONSUMER OFTEN CAN'T SEE DAMAGE RIGHT AWAY. These chemicals don’t always cause immediate reactions, which makes it easier for brands to use them without pushback, even though the long-term risks are real.

REGULATIONS ARE OUTDATED OR TOO LENIENT. Especially in the U.S., the cosmetics industry is loosely regulated and companies aren’t required to fully disclose ingredients or prove long-term safety.

At Nature-Derm, we take the harder road because it's the right one. We formulate without shortcuts, without toxins, and without compromise. Because your skin (and your health) deserve better.

Send us an email and Nature-Derm will send you free PDF with an alphabetical list of harmful chemicals and toxins commonly found in skincare products, even those that claim to be all natural. Know what to avoid.

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Nature-Derm has 100% All Natural Ingredients with no Toxic Chemicals

At Nature-Derm, we believe that true skincare begins with the power of nature and our proprietary blends are the heart of that philosophy. Each formula is a carefully balanced synergy of plant-based ingredients, vitamins, and naturally derived compounds, designed to deliver visible results without compromising your health. Backed by research and created with intention, these unique blends reflect our commitment to purity, performance, and skin-deep wellness.

  • Allantoin

    Allantoin is a powerful natural compound known for its soothing, hydrating, and skin-renewing properties. It helps calm irritation, reduce redness, and promote cell regeneration, making it ideal for sensitive or damaged skin. By boosting moisture retention and gently exfoliating dead skin cells, Allantoin leaves your skin smoother, softer, and visibly healthier. It’s a key ingredient in Nature-Derm formulations for its ability to heal and restore naturally.

  • Calendula

    Calendula, is a botanical powerhouse celebrated for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. Rich in antioxidants, it helps soothe irritated or sensitive skin, reduce redness, and support the natural healing process. Calendula also promotes collagen production, making it ideal for improving skin texture and tone. In Nature-Derm products, it plays a key role in nurturing balanced skin gently and effectively.

  • Aloe

    Aloe is a time-tested natural remedy known for its powerful hydration, soothing, and healing abilities. Packed with vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants, aloe deeply moisturizes the skin while calming inflammation, reducing redness, and accelerating the healing of irritation or sun damage. In Nature-Derm products, aloe enhances skin vitality and resilience, delivering pure, plant-based nourishment you can feel.

  • Coconut Oil

    Coconut oil is a deeply nourishing natural moisturizer rich in essential fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E. It helps hydrate and soften the skin while forming a protective barrier that locks in moisture. Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, coconut oil also supports skin healing and can soothe irritation and dryness. In Nature-Derm products, it serves as a foundational ingredient that delivers lasting hydration and a smooth, healthy glow.

  • Jojoba Oil

    Jojoba oil is a nutrient-rich botanical extract that closely mimics your skin’s natural sebum, making it incredibly effective for balancing oil production and deeply moisturizing without clogging pores. It’s packed with vitamins E and B, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that help repair the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and promote a soft, supple texture. In Nature-Derm products, jojoba oil supports clear, healthy, and balanced skin, naturally and effortlessly.

  • Turmeric Curcumin

    Turmeric Curcumin is a powerful natural compound revered for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and brightening properties. It helps calm redness, reduce blemishes, and even out skin tone by targeting hyperpigmentation and oxidative stress. Its ability to support collagen production and soothe sensitive skin makes it ideal for promoting a radiant, youthful complexion. In Nature-Derm it brings out your skin’s natural clarity and glow, safely and effectively.

  • Propolis

    Propolis is a nutrient-dense bee resin prized for its powerful antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and healing properties. Rich in antioxidants, it helps protect the skin from environmental stressors, calm irritation, and accelerate the repair of damaged or sensitive skin. Known as “nature’s defense shield,” propolis supports a clear, resilient complexion while promoting natural collagen production. In Nature-Derm products, it plays a vital role in restoring skin health and vitality, naturally and gently.

  • Vitamins A, E, B5

    Vitamins A, E, and B5 work together to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate the skin in a powerful, synergistic way. Vitamin A promotes healthy cell turnover, helping to smooth the skin’s texture, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and fade discoloration. Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, shields the skin from environmental stress while delivering deep hydration and calming inflammation. Meanwhile, Vitamin B5 enhances the skin’s ability to retain moisture, accelerates healing, and improves overall softness and elasticity.

  • Nature-Derm's Proprietary Blends

    Nature-Derm’s proprietary blends are carefully selected botanicals and plant-based compounds that work in harmony to nourish, protect, and restore the skin. These blends are backed by extensive research and a commitment to purity, ensuring that every drop supports your skin’s health without toxins, fillers, or unnecessary additives.
    These unique formulations are what set Nature-Derm apart, offering targeted, high-performance skincare that aligns with your body’s natural radiance.

Watch Nature-Derm's Educational Series

Welcome to Nature-Derm’s Educational Series, where we empower you with the knowledge to make smarter, healthier choices for your skin. From decoding common toxins in skincare to spotlighting safe, natural alternatives, our expert-led content is designed to help you understand what truly supports your skin’s health and vitality. Because informed skin is beautiful skin.

At Nature-Derm, we believe in full ingredient transparency and uncompromising safety. That’s why our commitment to clean skincare is aligned with trusted resources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG.org), a leading authority on ingredient safety and consumer health. We reference EWG’s research and data to help guide our ingredient selection and ensure our formulations are free from known or suspected toxins. From parabens and phthalates to synthetic fragrances and hormone-disrupting chemicals, we avoid the ingredients flagged by EWG so you can feel confident about what you put on your skin. To check any products, visit: https://www.ewg.org/skindeep/