controversial ingredients

  • should you avoid tea-lauryl sulfate

    Should You Avoid TEA-Lauryl Sulfate In Skincare?

    Should you avoid TEA-Lauryl Sulfate? It’s one of the most effective surfactants out there. Translation: it removes even the most stubborn of dirt and grime. But, it comes at a cost: it can dry out your skin (and scalp). So should you use it or ditch it with something gentler? Let’s find out: What Is […]

  • why silica in cosmetics is not dangerous

    Is Silica in Skincare Dangerous?

    Is silica in skincare safe? Word on the beauty streets is that silica is trying to kill you. Silica is the latest ingredient accused of giving you silicosis and all sorts of nasty diseases. Once the rumours start, everyone adds its fair share of gossip and side effects. We don’t do gossip here. We do […]

  • parabens and formaldehyde controversy

    Do Parabens Release Formaldehyde?

    Do parabens release formaldehyde? I get this question a lot and here’s why: You know the whole “parabens are the devil” thing? It’s total nonsense. I’ve debunked it all here. But, there’s one thing I’ve forgotten to touch on. Formaldehyde. Parabens, those little preservatives that keep your cosmetics safe from germs and bacteria, are often accused […]

  • red dye 33

    Red 33: Is It Dangerous?

    I know, Red 33 isn’t a popular skincare ingredient and you may not have heard of it but… lately people are wondering about its safety. So we need to talk about it. But first, let me ask you a question: Ever wondered why natural lipstick shades come only in boring nudes or unassuming pale pinks? […]

  • gold in skincare

    Gold In Skincare: Is It Worth Its Weight?

    Is gold in skincare the secret to looking 20 years younger? It seemed to have worked for Diane De Poitiers, the mistress of King Henry II of France. She was years older than her royal lover, yet they looked the SAME age. Her secret? Gold. Diane drank a cuppa every day. Gold is the same […]

  • bismuth oxychloride avoid

    Is Bismuth Oxychloride Really Natural And Should You Avoid It?

    Did you jump on the mineral makeup bandwagon only to see your face break out in a horrible rush? WTH? Wasn’t this stuff supposed to be safer? Not really. Some of the ingredients used in mineral makeup can cause a rash or bad reaction. That’s not to say you should avoid it. I’m not the […]