Navigating the aisles: top toxic – free personal care and cosmetic products to seek when shopping

Here’s my list of ingredients that everyday consumers without a strong chemistry background to look for. Typically my rule of thumb is to look for ingredients that you can recognize and pronounce. Then again, if you see a product from a marketed natural, organic brand that does not follow this condition – it is best to scan the product in the EWG Verified app to check if the ingredients have been evaluated by leading EWG, signifying they pose no risk to human health.

Below is a breakdown of (just a few) ingredients I check for in my skincare and cosmetic products, along with their purposes.

Curious about some products and brands I love that use these ingredients, or known to have safe, natural ingredients? (list is not exhaustive and includes only a selection).

Besides the EWG Verified label, also look for other certifications on the brand’s products. This can demonstrate a brands trustworthiness, credibility, and genuine commitment to sustainable practices. Here’s a description of a few certifications mentioned in the personal care and cosmetic brands above ( + B Corp) that showcase a brand’s commitment to environmental sustainability: