Toxic Ingredients to Avoid

Synthetic Emulsifier and Binding Agent: PEG. Abbreviation for polyethylene glycol. Each number behind the PEG on a label indicates the molecular weight.  The low numbers up to 400 may cause hives and eczema."

PEGs are commonly used in hair conditioners as they bind to the hair and do not rinse off. "PEG" based ingredients are in a wide variety of personal care products, baby care and sunscreens. They are made by ethoxylating Propylene Glycol.

Dangerous levels of the toxin dioxin have been found as a manufacturing by-product of ethoxolation. A 1992 FDA survey found 54 ethoxylated raw materials used in cosmetics; all contained 1,4 dioxane. Also, the highly toxic 1,4 dioxane was found in 27 out of 30 children's bubble bath and shampoo products.