Animal-derived ingredients

Raw materials from animals are commonly used in skincare and cosmetics, including animal collagen, sheep lanolin, beeswax etc. In addition, and according to European regulations, Coluors' products are not tested on animals.

Artificial colours & fragrances

These make a product look and smell appealing. But they have no benefit to the skin and can be photosensitive (react with sunlight) and cause irritation.

BHA & BHT (Butylated hydroxyanisole & Butylated hydroxytoluene)

Butylated Hydroxyanisole (BHA) and Butyl Hydroxytoluene (BHT) are commonly used to preserve the shelf life of a product.

BHA is a possible carcinogen according to the International Agency for Research on Cancer. While BHT has been shown to be toxic. These two ingredients can also interfere with hormone function and break down essential vitamins in the body.

Chlorphenesin

A preservative based on chlorine, which has a highly polluting manufacturing process.

Coal tar

Coal tar is a known carcinogen, skin allergen and respiratory toxicant. As well as being obtained via coal processing.

DEA (Diethanolamine)

DEA (diethanolamine) is a chemical pH adjuster. Making a product close to the natural pH of the skin is critically important, and the pH is always tested when each batch is made. But instead of DEA, Coluors uses only natural pH adjusters such as Citric Acid or Lactic Acid.

DMDM Hydantoin

This preservative slowly releases carcinogenic formaldehyde over time (see Formaldehyde). People can also develop a contact allergy to formaldehyde or the ingredient itself.

EDTA

This binding agent improves stability and decreases the reactivity of any metal ions in a product. While it is a relatively low risk ingredient, EDTA cause skin, eye and lung irritations, and may also be toxic to organs.

Ethanolamines

With these components, there is the risk of forming a potentially carcinogenic molecule when nitrite is present. This can be controlled, yet these ingredients are still environmentally toxic.

Formaldehyde liberators

These preservatives gradually release formalin, which is a skin irritant and suspected carcinogen.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone is a common ingredient in over-the-counter medicine, fragrances and as skin-lightening chemical. However, it’s recognised as an organ toxicity hazard and linked to cancer and skin irritations.

Methylisothiazolinone

Used to replace parabens, this preservative is highly irritating and can cause contact eczema. Usage is strictly regulated in Europe.

Nanomaterials

These very small particles (1-100 nm) can penetrate the skin and cause unknown effects in the body.

Parabens (ethyl, methyl, propyl, butyl)

Parabens are preservatives that can upset the body’s hormonal balance. Some parabens have already been banned in beauty products but Coluors goes further and avoids the whole family as a precaution.

PEGs (Polyethylene Glycol)

PEGs are commonly used as a thickener, emulsifier, surfactant or humectant. However, PEGs are suspected carcinogens and have difficulty biodegrading. In addition, their manufacture creates dioxane, an extremely polluting waste product.

Phenoxyethanol

Easily absorbed through the skin, this preservative is a potential irritant as well as having suspected neurotoxic effects.

Phthalates

Used as fixing and plasticizing agents to help fragrances and varnishes last longer, as well as in plastic packaging, phthalates are believed to be dangerous endocrine disruptors.

Propylene glycol

Derived from petrochemicals, its high-scale production is a danger to the environment.

Retinol

A synthetic form of Vitamin A, retinol is commonly found in many anti-aging skincare products. However, retinol is known to cause skin irritation, photosensitivity, and is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breast-feeding. And, according to an FDA study, retinoid ingredients may even speed the development of skin tumours and lesions on sun-exposed skin.

Silicones

Silicones are no danger to humans. But they have difficulty biodegrading so they will pollute the environment when they flow into wastewater.

SLS/SLES (Sodium Lauryl/Laureth Sulfate)

Used widely as detergents and cleansing agents, these can cause irritation and allergic reactions as well as serious health risks.

TEA (Triethanolamine)

TEA (Triethanolamine) is a chemical pH adjuster. Making a product close to the natural pH of the skin is critically important, and the pH is always tested when each batch is made. But instead of TEA, Coluors uses only natural pH adjusters such as Citric Acid or Lactic Acid.

Triclosan/Triclocarban

These preservatives harm the environment, particularly aquatic organisms.