The list of allergens in cosmetics
Allergens are small volatile and odorous molecules, chemical or natural, which in rare cases can cause allergic reactions on certain sensitive skin immediately after use. These allergenic substances number 26:
- Alpha-Isomethyl ionone
- Amyl cinnamal
- Amylcinnamyl alcohol
- Anise alcohol
- Benzyl alcohol
- Benzyl benzoate
- Benzyl cinnamate
- Benzyl salicylate
- Butylphenylmethylpropional
- Cinnamal
- Cinnamyl alcohol
- Citral
- Citronellol
- Coumarin
- Eugenol
- Farnesol
- Geraniol
- Hexyl cinnamal
- Hydroxycitronnellal
- Hydroxyisohexyl 3-cyclohexene carboxaldehyde
- Isoeugenol
- Limonene
- Linalol
- Methyl 2-octynoate
- Evernia prunastri (Oak moss)
- Evernia furfuracea (Tree Moss).
From then on, in order to inform consumers who use these products of their presence, they must be obligatorily mentioned on the product labeling. But other substances can also cause allergies. Among the most common, we find:
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The Conservatives : such as parabens, formaldehydes, and phenoxyethanol ;
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Dyes : the dye for which allergies are most frequently observed is cochineal carmine, used in makeup ;
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Essential oils : although natural, they can be irritating for some sensitive skin;
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Sulfates: present in many cleansers, they can cause irritations;
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Silicones and polymers: although rarely allergenic, they can clog the skin and cause reactions.
Read labels carefully to avoid allergens in your cosmetics
One of the best ways to avoid allergens is to learn how to read the labels of your beauty products. To find cosmetics suitable for your sensitive skin, you can...
Search for the term "hypoallergenic"
Although this statement does not guarantee the complete absence of allergens, it indicates that the product has been formulated to minimize risks;
Identify the suspicious ingredients
If you are allergic to certain substances, check their presence in the INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients) list;
Favor labels and certifications
Some labels like "Cosmos Organic", "Ecocert" or "Allergy Certified" indicate special attention to allergenic ingredients. Additionally, products certified PETA Cruelty Free and Vegan often favor plant-based and natural ingredients. This can be an advantage if the formulas avoid common allergens such as silicones and harsh preservatives;
Avoid overly long ingredient lists
The more ingredients a product contains, the higher the risk of allergy.
Favor natural ingredients
Cosmetics that exclude petroleum derivatives and favor natural ingredients are often preferred by people prone to allergies, as they contain fewer synthetic substances. However, it is important to note that even natural ingredients can cause reactions. To avoid this:
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Test pure vegetable oils: jojoba oil, argan oil, or sweet almond oil are generally well tolerated;
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Avoid essential oils if you have hypersensitive skin.
Test the product before use
To avoid allergic reactions, it may be necessary to perform a skin test before applying a product over a large area:
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Apply a small amount of the product to the inside of the wrist or behind the ear;
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Wait 24 to 48 hours without washing the area;
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If no reaction (redness, itching, irritation) occurs, the product is probably safe for you.
Favor brands that are committed
Some brands are known for offering cosmetics suitable for sensitive and reactive skin. Grangettes is committed to offering you clean cosmetics that do not contain controversial ingredients. For example, our creams are dye-free and therefore white, transparent, or colored by an active ingredient. Only natural colors derived from active ingredients can give our products a beautiful color: this is notably the case with vitamin B12, used in the soothing face cream, giving it a pinkish hue.
At Grangettes, allergens, as well as phenoxyethanol, parabens, silicones, PEGs, irritants, comedogenic ingredients, petroleum derivatives, endocrine disruptors, pollutants, or animal-derived products are completely excluded from the composition of our cosmetics! We leave no room for doubt: every chosen ingredient has proven its effectiveness without harming health, animals, or the environment.
Avoid conventional makeup
Makeup can contain many allergens, especially in foundations, mascaras, and lipsticks. To limit the risks:
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Choose mineral makeup: it contains fewer ingredients and is often better tolerated;
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Avoid waterproof mascaras: they contain solvents that can irritate the skin;
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Prefer natural lip balms : avoid those containing perfumes or chemical preservatives.
Be careful with hair products
Shampoos, conditioners, and styling products can also contain allergens. To avoid reactions, choose sulfate-free shampoos, and prefer organic or natural hair care products. Also avoid styling sprays and mousses that contain alcohol or harsh fragrances.
What beauty routine to avoid allergens?
To pamper your skin, focus on your new allergen-free routine!
1. I remove my makeup: removing makeup is an essential step in a skincare routine, but it is even more crucial for people with sensitive skin or prone to allergies. Indeed, pollution particles, dust, and makeup residues can accumulate on the skin, promoting redness, itching, and skin inflammations, especially in reactive skin.
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- CHF 29.00
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2. I clean and purify my skin: a good cleansing allows you to eliminate allergens and pollutants before they penetrate the skin and trigger a reaction. Indeed, poorly cleansed skin is more vulnerable to external aggressions. By removing impurities and using a gentle cleanser, you preserve the hydrolipidic film and limit the risks of dryness and irritation.
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- CHF 36.00
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3. I moisturize my skin with a soothing cream: composed of hyaluronic acid, olive squalane, allantoin, and betaine, the Grangettes soothing cream deeply hydrates for soft and supple skin. It offers anti-pollution protection thanks to ectoine and soothes sensitive skin with bisabolol. It reduces the feeling of tightness for balanced and healthy skin.
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- CHF 35.00
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- CHF 35.00
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Consult an allergist or a dermatologist
If you have ever had allergic reactions to cosmetics, consulting a specialist will help you identify the ingredients to avoid. An allergy test can be performed to determine your specific sensitivities.
