Due to mounting concerns over possible asbestos contamination, multiple brands have also voluntarily recalled talc-based products and/or removed the ingredient altogether, replacing it with alternatives such as cornstarch, mica, and kaolin clay.
Mineral oil (liquid paraffin)
What it is: A colorless, odorless liquid moisturizing agent distilled from a mineral source such as petroleum.
Why some people choose to avoid it: Untreated or lightly treated mineral oils are known carcinogens, and there is a broader concern that any mineral oil could be contaminated with carcinogenic compounds such as 1,4-dioxane. A big but here, though: There’s no evidence that the trace amounts of these compounds that could be found in the ultra-refined mineral oil used in cosmetics is unsafe. In recent skin-absorption studies, the FDA found that 1,4-dioxane can penetrate the skin in trace amounts, especially when applied as a lotion. But again, at these small amounts, it is still not considered harmful.
Petrolatum (petroleum jelly, white petrolatum)
What it is: a.k.a. petroleum jelly, a byproduct of the refining process of crude oil. It’s a skin protectant that helps retain moisture.
Why some people choose to avoid it: Chemicals in crude oil called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are reasonably anticipated to be human carcinogens. They are supposed to be removed, however, during the refining process that produces the petrolatum that’s used in cosmetics.
When used topically, petroleum jelly doesn’t clog pores, but according to the AAD, when used on acne-prone skin, it could lead to breakouts.
Toluene
What it is: A solvent used in nail products, including polish and removers (usually listed as methylbenzene, phenylmethane, and toluol on the ingredient list).
Why some people choose to avoid it: Toluene fumes can be inhaled, and liquid toluene can be absorbed through damaged skin. While typically flushed out within a day, a small amount can build up in fat tissue with daily exposure. Toluene doesn’t appear on the National Toxicology Program’s list of carcinogens, but the Center for Disease Control (CDC) says exposure can cause nausea, tiredness, and drunken-type actions.
