The "Without" List
This is our master list of ingredients we flag as potential concerns. The presence of an ingredient here doesn't mean it's universally "bad"—context matters. This list is a starting point for your own research.
Flagged Ingredients
A consolidated list of ingredients flagged as concerns across all categories on our site.
| Ingredient | Reason for Concern |
|---|---|
| Alcohol (Ethanol) | Strictly avoided in baby wipes to prevent extreme skin dehydration and burning on sensitive areas. |
| Benzalkonium Chloride | A harsh antimicrobial agent that can be overly drying and irritating for daily use on baby skin. |
| Chlorine | Excluded from the manufacturing process to ensure no toxic dioxin byproducts remain in the wipe material. |
| Coal Tar | Used in some medicated shampoos but flagged as a potential carcinogen and skin irritant. |
| Dimethicone | A specific silicone that creates a plastic-like film on the hair, often causing it to become limp and greasy. |
| Formaldehyde | A known carcinogen sometimes released by certain preservatives to prevent bacterial growth in the bottle. |
| Formaldehyde Releasers | Preservatives that slowly leak formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, to prevent bacterial growth. |
| Methylisothiazolinone (MI) | A powerful preservative that is a leading cause of painful allergic skin reactions. |
| Mineral Oil | A petroleum byproduct that sits on top of the scalp, potentially clogging pores and preventing natural moisture. |
| Parabens | Chemical preservatives flagged due to concerns over their potential to disrupt hormonal balance (endocrine disruption). |
| PEG Compounds | Flagged because the manufacturing process can result in contamination with 1,4-dioxane, a suspected carcinogen. |
| Phenoxyethanol | A preservative frequently excluded because it can cause skin reactions or eczema flare-ups in newborns. |
| Phthalates | Often hidden in fragrances, these chemicals are excluded due to potential developmental and reproductive health risks. |
| Plastic (Polyester) | Avoided to prevent environmental microplastic pollution and ensure the wipe is fully compostable. |
| Polyethylene Glycols (PEGs) | Thickeners that may be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a suspected carcinogen, during manufacturing. |
| Propylene Glycol | Avoided as it can act as a skin penetrant, potentially carrying other unwanted chemicals deeper into the skin. |
| Silicones | Coating agents that provide temporary shine but can lead to heavy product build-up and "suffocate" the hair over time. |
| Sulfates | Harsh cleansing agents (like SLS/SLES) that can strip natural oils and cause scalp irritation or dryness. |
| Synthetic Fragrance | A common allergen that can cause contact dermatitis, headaches, and respiratory sensitivity. |
| Triclosan | An antimicrobial agent flagged for its potential to disrupt hormones and contribute to antibiotic resistance. |