Category: Cosmetic Truth of the Month

CAIA OWE YOU NOTHING Lipstick -19€

CAIA OWE YOU NOTHING Lipstick – Ingredient Analysis

Lipstick is one of the most iconic beauty products—used daily, reapplied frequently, and inevitably partially ingested. Yet, few consumers take the time to examine the ingredients in lipstick formulas. From silicones and synthetic polymers to PFAS, titanium dioxide, phenoxyethanol, and suspected endocrine disruptors, many conventional lipsticks still rely on controversial cosmetic ingredients that raise health and environmental concerns.

In this article, we take a closer look at CAIA lipstick ingredients, focusing on the brand’s bestselling “Owe You Nothing” Lipstick. CAIA is a Stockholm-based, direct-to-consumer beauty brand founded by influencers and currently trending across social media platforms.

CAIA’s Product Philosophy: Marketing Claims vs Ingredient Reality

According to CAIA, the brand’s philosophy is built around accessibility, quality, and carefully selected ingredients: “We believe beauty products should be of top quality at accessible prices. Our formulations are based on carefully selected ingredients, and we have a long list of ingredients we avoid. Our skincare is developed with toxicologists, dermatologists, and biologists.” But what does “carefully selected ingredients” actually mean when applied to a lipstick formula?

CAIA Owe You Nothing Lipstick – Product Description

As presented on CAIA’s official website, the lipstick promises:  Pure pigmentation /Extreme matte finish/ Smooth, non-dragging application/ Water resistance/Nourishing properties thanks to Passion Fruit seed oil. To assess whether these claims align with the formulation, let’s examine the INCI list in detail.

Ingredients/ INCI*:

CETEARYL ETHYLHEXANOATE, ISONONYL ISONONANOATE; POLYETHYLENE, OCTYLDODECANOL, KAOLIN, SILICA, HYDROGENATED STYRENE/METHYL STYRENE/INDENE COPOLYMER, SYNTHETIC WAX, DICALCIUM PHOSPHATE, C30-45 ALKYL DIMETHICONE, DIMETHICONE/VINYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER ,CETYL DIMETHICONE, DIMETHICONE, PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRA-DI-t-BUTYL HYDROXYHYDROCINNAMATE, MICA, LAURETH-4, MAY CONTAIN/(+/-): TITANIUM DIOXIDE (CI 77891) IRON OXIDES (CI 77491) IRON OXIDES (CI 77492) RED 6 (CI 15850) RED 7 LAKE (CI 15850) RED 28 LAKE (CI 45410) BLUE 1 LAKE (CI 42090) YELLOW 5 LAKE (CI 19140) YELLOW 6 LAKE (CI 15985)

Ingredient Analysis: What Really Shapes This Lipstick Formula

As with most cosmetic products, the first 5–10 ingredients define the overall profile of the lipstick. In the case of CAIA’s Owe You Nothing Lipstick, this base is overwhelmingly composed of synthetic ingredients, including silicones, synthetic polymers, and petrochemical derivatives. Notably, the much-advertised Passion Fruit seed oil (Passiflora edulis seed oil) is absent from the INCI list.

Controversial Ingredients Identified in CAIA Lipstick

• POLYETHYLENE environmental concern, pollutant (microplastics)
• HYDROGENATED STYRENE/METHYL STYRENE/INDENE COPOLYMER, a film former. derived from petrochemical ingredients – pollutant.
• An entire list of Silicones : DIMETHICONE/CETYL DIMETHICONE/C30-45 ALKYL DIMETHICONE/DIMETHICONE/VINYL DIMETHICONE CROSSPOLYMER,  problematic substances for the environnement (not very biodegradable), pollutants
• TITANIUM DIOXIDE, colorant, problematic in this kind of product (as it will be partially ingested), check out the article for more detailed information
• Film-forming agents, like HYDROGENATED STYRENE/METHYL STYRENE/INDENE COPOLYMER problematic for the environment, pollutants
• a list of controversial synthetic dyes RED 7 LAKE (CI 15850)  YELLOW 5 LAKE (CI 19140) YELLOW 6 LAKE (CI 15985),some azo dyes are classified as carcinogens, which is why azo dyes are restricted in the EU
• PENTAERYTHRITYL TETRA-DI-t-BUTYL HYDROXYHYDROCINNAMATE, synthetic antioxydant.

Verdict: CAIA Owe You Nothing Lipstick

This formulation is far removed from the claim of “carefully selected ingredients.” The ingredient list is dominated by controversial and polluting substances, including microplastics, silicones, petrochemical polymers, and synthetic dyes. The promised Passion Fruit seed oil appears to be little more than a marketing claim, as it does not appear anywhere in the ingredient list.

How to Choose Lipsticks Without Harmful Ingredients

1. Look Beyond “Paraben-Free” Claims

Lipsticks marketed as “paraben-free” can still contain other endocrine disruptors or controversial substances. Certification in organic cosmetics offers stronger guarantees, as these harmful and problematic ingredients are simply not permitted.

2. Avoid PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl Substances) in Makeup (and other products)

PFAS (Forever Chemicals) are persistent environmental pollutants linked to serious health concerns. Always check ingredient lists for PFAS-related compounds such as PTFE or PFOA.

3. Avoid Silicones and Mineral Oil Derivatives

Silicones and mineral oil-based ingredients are widely used for texture and durability but come at a high environmental cost due to poor biodegradability.

4. Pay Attention to Synthetic Preservatives

Some preservatives, such as phenoxyethanol or formaldehyde releasers, are associated with irritation, allergies, or endocrine disruption. Alternatives exist, particularly in certified organic cosmetics.

5.  Educate Yourself on Endocrine Disruptors 

Endocrine disruptors are harmful chemicals present in various beauty products. These chemicals can interfere with your hormonal balance and potentially lead to serious health issues. It is never enough to choose lipsticks labeled as “paraben-free” as the products can still contain other endocrine disruptors or harmful ingredients. Certified organic cosmetics however, provide more guarantees, endocrine disruptors are simply not allowed in the formulation process by the different labels. If the product is not certified, make sure to check the ingredient list.

Conclusion :

Choosing lipsticks with safer formulations is essential—not only for personal health, but also for environmental protection. By learning how to analyze lipstick ingredients, consumers can avoid endocrine disruptors, PFAS, microplastics, silicones, and other controversial substances commonly found in conventional makeup. Knowledge remains the most powerful tool for making informed cosmetic choices.

FAQ – CAIA Lipstick Ingredients

Are CAIA lipsticks safe to use?

CAIA lipsticks contain several controversial ingredients, particularly synthetic polymers, titanium dioxyde, azo dyes and silicones, which may raise concerns depending on individual sensitivity and long-term exposure.

Why are lipstick ingredients especially important?

Lipsticks are applied on the lips and can be partially ingested, making ingredient transparency particularly crucial.

Do CAIA lipsticks contain microplastics?

Yes, the presence of polyethylene indicates the use of microplastics in the formula.

How can I choose safer lipsticks?

Check the full INCI list, avoid controversial substances, and prioritize certified organic cosmetics when possible.

L’Oréal Cell Renew Revitalising Day Cream, SPF30 –50 ml €

No need to present the L’Oréal group, the biggest multinational in the cosmetics market, a leader both in France and at international level. And like all large groups, the l’Oréal group now displays its “sustainable” commitments “for the future” with huge ladles of marketing campaigns … that certainly represent exorbitant budgets. There is no need to repeat their commitments in terms of sustainability here, they all seem more than « perfect ». And if we were to take a closer look at one of L’Oréal’s products, what about the formulation of the cosmetic products presents on the market?

L’Oréal Age Perfect under the spotlight

L’Oréal Age Perfect Day Cream product benefits, – as presented on the brand’s website (UK version)*:

DESCRIPTION

“Discover millions of new skin cells with this revitalising SPF day cream that promotes cell renewal. Formulated with a powerful antioxidant recovery complex, the cream enhances radiance leaving skin feeling toned with a luminous looking glow.
BENEFITS
Cell Renew Revitalising Day Cream SPF30 is formulated with:

Antioxidant Recovery Complex:

•  Neohesperidin: powerful antioxidant known to support cell regeneration
•  Vitamin E: antioxidant known to boosts skins natural defence against free radicals like pollution
• SPF30: Protects skin against the harmful effects of UV rays

The product claims

As is often the case in the cosmetics sector, L’Oréal highlights two active ingredients (black truffle and black tea kombucha) which are supposed to account for the global effectiveness of the formula: “two active ingredients rich in polyphenols and vitamin B (…) to accelerate cell regeneration and prolong the vitality of the skin. » (as specified on the french version of l’Oréal’s website. This is a very common marketing technique, not only in the conventional cosmetics sector by the way*. And the fundamental aspect of the base of the formula, the so-called « excipient”, is very often forgotten, and is of paramount importance.According to K.P. Witten, Head of Development at Beiersdorf, “80% of the desired performance can be achieved with a quality excipient. The active ingredients, however extraordinary, only account for the remaining 20%.

* (However, there is one important difference: the quality of the excipient is generally much better in certified natural and organic cosmetics, as it is based entirely vegetable oils and waxes, as mineral oil/silicone components are simply not allowed)

More information can be found in the video on this topic (in french, however).

Let’s have a closer look at L’Oréal Age Perfect ingredients list

If we get back to the example of L’Oréal’s day cream, it’s the truffle extract and black tea that are highlighted as main ingredients with exceptional qualities. But when we take a closer look at the INCI list, we see that these components are found in 17th and 22nd position; in very small quantities and therefore with extremely limited benefits.The main ingredients are always to be found at the top of the list, which makes it easy to identify those present in the highest concentration. Finally, everything at the very end of the list is present in extremely small quantities.On the other hand, -once again- it is interesting to look more closely at the whole formulation of the product and to compare it with the brand’s product description.So if we take a closer look water is in first position, closely followed by glycerin and somewhere in the middle the two highlighted active ingredients. What would be interesting now would be to know what lies in between these two ingredients….

Let’s take the time to check the composition of the product by taking a closer look at the list of ingredients, the INCI list of L’Oréal’s Cell Renew Revitalising Day Cream

Ingredients/ INCI*: AQUA / WATER • GLYCERIN • HOMOSALATE • OCTOCRYLENE • ETHYLHEXYL SALICYLATE • ALCOHOL DENAT. • BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE • HYDROGENATED POLYISOBUTENE • BIS-PEG-18 METHYL ETHER DIMETHYL SILANE • DIMETHICONE • CETEARYL ALCOHOL • PEG-100 STEARATE • PEG-20 • PETROLATUM • CETYL ALCOHOL • TUBER AESTIVUM EXTRACT • BUTYROSPERMUM PARKII BUTTER / SHEA BUTTER • C13-14 ISOPARAFFIN • SACCHAROMYCES/XYLINUM/BLACK TEA FERMENT • GLYCERYL STEARATE • TUBER MELANOSPORUM EXTRACT • DIMETHICONOL • DIMETHYL ISOSORBIDE • CETEARYL GLUCOSIDE • NEOHESPERIDIN DIHYDROCHALCONE • SODIUM CITRATE • SODIUM COCOYL GLUTAMATE • SODIUM HYALURONATE • SODIUM HYDROXIDE • CYCLODEXTRIN • ADENOSINE • VIGNA ACONITIFOLIA SEED EXTRACT • MANNITOL • DISODIUM EDTA • DISODIUM SUCCINATE • PROPYLENE GLYCOL • HYDROLYZED CICER SEED EXTRACT • HYDROXYETHYLCELLULOSE • CAPRYLOYL SALICYLIC ACID • CITRIC ACID • LAURETH-7 • XANTHAN GUM • BIOTIN • FAEX EXTRACT / YEAST EXTRACT • POLYACRYLAMIDE • ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER • OCTYLDODECANOL • BHT • TOCOPHEROL • TOCOPHERYL ACETATE • POTASSIUM SORBATE • SODIUM BENZOATE • SODIUM DEHYDROACETATE • SODIUM SALICYLATE • PHENOXYETHANOL • CI 14700 / RED 4 • CI 19140 / YELLOW 5 • LINALOOL • GERANIOL • ALPHA-ISOMETHYL IONONE • LIMONENE • HYDROXYCITRONELLAL • CITRONELLOL • HEXYL CINNAMAL • BENZYL ALCOHOL • BENZYL SALICYLATE • PARFUM / FRAGRANCE

Ingredient analysis

Ingredient’s list analyzed with the website’s INCI Search tool

As always, it is the first 5-10 ingredients that make up the majority of the product’s overall “profile”.

Following water and glycerin, we go straight to the “problematic synthetic components” list with a host of controversial sunscreens and different ingredients derived from petrochemicals (mineral oils) or silicones. A « product base » that is almost entirely based on synthetic ingredients (except the glycerine), some of which are highly controversial.

A long list of controversial substances are in L’Oréal’s Cell Renew Revitalising Day Cream:

• HOMOSALATE a chemical UV filter/sunscreen,  suspected endocrine disruptor*.
• OCTOCRYLENE a chemical UV filter/sunscreen, suspected endocrine disruptor*.
• ETHYLHEXYL SALICYLATE (Octisalate) a chemical UV filter/sunscreen, suspected endocrine disruptor*.
• Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane (Avobenzone) a chemical UV filter/sunscreen, a suspected endocrine disruptor
• Several Silicones : DIMETHICONE, DIMETHICONOL environmentally problematic substances (not very biodegradable), pollutants
• Hydrogenated Polyisobutene, derived from mineral oil, problematic for the environment
• A series of PEGs (@BIS-PEG-18 METHYLETHER DIMETHYL SILANE, PEG-100 STEARATE – PEG-20), these are ethoxylated materials. These are obtained from highly reactive and toxic gases, and are the result of a chemical process that requires the strictest safety measures. PEGs can also make the skin’s barrier more permeable to other substances and are not very biodegradable and therefore also polluting.
• Phenoxyethanol, a controversial synthetic preservative, with proven toxic potential (harmful to the liver, in particular)
• Film-forming agents, like Acrylates/C10-30 Alkyl Acrylate Crosspolymer, and Ammonium Acryloyldimethyltaurate/VP Copolymer problematic for the environment, pollutants
• The « Fragrance »/ Perfume listed in the INCI list can also sometimes be a problem: since it is a non-certified product (in natural and organic cosmetics), there is a good chance that it is a synthetic fragrance, which very often also contains phthalates, also classified as endocrine disruptors. To avoid the presence of phthalates, the only certainty would be to opt for a certified product, as synthetic perfumes are simply not authorised by the various specifications in natural and organic cosmetics.

Verdict for the analysis of L’Oréal Cell Renew Revitalising Day Cream:

A formulation that is far, far from being… flawless. A very unspectacular base/excipient (mainly glycerin and silicones), surrounded by very problematic and controversial ingredients (problematic synthetic preservatives, synthetic UV filters/sunscreens, endocrine disruptors, silicones, etc…)

No less than 5 very problematic synthetic sunscreens, for a simple day cream… what else? On top of that, there is a whole list of controversial and polluting ingredients, problematic for the environment (silicones, acrylates, Peg, mineral oil derivatives etc) – which is just perfect for consolidating  and putting into action these “sustainable commitments for the future »…only kidding.

It is always worth taking a closer look at the formulation of certain randomly chosen products. Very often we come to the conclusion that the commitments touted by multi-nationals like l’Oréal are still far from being reflected in reality.Why then invest huge sums in advertising this new vision of “For the Future” when the product formulation of a randomly choses product… just stands for the absolute opposite?

Garnier Ambre Solaire, full ingredients review

GARNIER

Ambre Solaire Advanced Sensitive Kids

Sun Cream Spray SPF50+

12,90 €

Garnier is one of those ancient, traditional brands, which are widely available in supermarkets or pharmacies. The brand (as well as Garnier’s various other sub-brands) belongs to the L’Oréal group. As is the case with all multi-nationals in the cosmetics industry, brands are now almost all duty-bound to re-invent themselves with more sustainable versions, whether by conviction or simple opportunistic marketing.  The FRENCH homepage of Garnier’s website details this concept with a new slogan “towards even more sustainable beauty”:

“Discover the next chapter in our commitment to Green Beauty, an educational campaign to share expert knowledge and practical tips for more sustainable consumption. This campaign is the first step in a new commitment by the brand to encourage 250 million people to live more responsibly by 2025 (…). Garnier’s new commitment is part of a series of ambitious goals to reduce the brand’s environmental impact at all stages of its value chain. Garnier is determined to continue its bold sustainable transformation and is committed to sharing expert knowledge and practical advice with millions of consumers to empower them to take action.”

A little further down on the “Our Heritage” page (still on the French version of the website), Garnier claims that its Ultra Gentle shampoos are “plant-based” and that the Olia colour is “based on the power of vegetal oil”. They forget to mention the rest of the less glamorous formulation which includes a slew of controversial chemical ingredients. “The first range of ultra-soft plant-based shampoos designed for all hair types. The first four formulas are made with wheat germ, lime leaf, chamomile and saw palmetto” (…) OLIA, THE POWER OF OIL .Based on the power of oil, Olia offers exceptional colour and improved hair quality: the hair is three times shinier than before colouring with Olia. And all this without ammonia.”

So to sum up: Garnier, which until now has not been noted for its commitment to ecology, or for its irreproachable formulations, whether in terms of ecology or in terms of its formulations based on extremely controversial ingredients, is about to explain to us how to “live more responsibly”. Sounds like a real programme. We don’t quite yet understand the concept of “even more sustainable” beauty, and we are still not quite sure if the Garnier group and its various brands (Fructis, Ultra Doux, Olia, Belle Color etc.) has had anything to do with sustainable beauty since its creation. And to check whether these proudly stated commitments are reflected in the formulation of their products, all you have to do is take a random product, a sun spray for children for example, and take a closer look at the composition.

On the brand page* (UK page) presenting GARNIER Ambre Solaire Sunscreen Spray, you can read a relatively brief description:

Our Ambre Solaire Kids Sensitive Advanced Sun Lotion Spray SPF50+ immediately protects your kids from both short and long-term sun-induced damage. Our innovative Netlock TechnologyTM and maximum 5 Star UVA protection has been especially developed for kids’ sensitive and sun intolerant skin and is hypoallergenic. The kind-to-skin formula can be used on body and face. Our formula conforms 100% to European recommendations for protection against the harmful effects of UVA and UVB rays.

Full ingredient review

Let’s take the time to check the composition of the product by taking a closer look at the list of ingredients, on the INCI list of GARNIER Ambre Solaire Spray:

Ingredients analysis:

As always, it is the first 5-8 ingredients that constitute the majority of the product’s “profile”. And among these first ingredients there is already an entire list of chemical UV filters, a real cocktail of 6 synthetic UV filters over the whole formula, (some of which are considered really problematic, notably endocrine disruptors), some secondary substances and controversial and/or polluting components. The tone of the formulation is set.  We are not quite sure just how much this approach is really about “more sustainable beauty”.

Some controversial substances have crept into the formula:

• ETHYLHEXYL SALICYLATE (Octisalate), synthetic UV filter (chemical), suspected endocrine disruptor
• BUTYL METHOXYDIBENZOYLMETHANE, synthetic UV filter (chemical), suspected endocrine disruptor
• ETHYLHEXYL TRIAZONE synthetic UV filter (chemical), environmental problem (pollutant)
• DROMETRIZOLE TRISILOXANE synthetic UV filter (chemical), environmental concern (pollutant)
• TRIETHANOLAMINE an ingredient that is used either as a buffer substance, emulsifier or surfactant, which can form nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic
• SODIUM POLYACRYLATES, gelling agent, absorbent, environmental problem
• Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, chelating agent (see EDTA), derived from petrochemical components, pollutant
• ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER environmental problem (microplastic)

Ingredient’s list analyzed with the website’s INCI Search tool

The formulation also contains suspected endocrine disruptors, which is a real problem, especially in a product intended for children.Pregnant women and children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of endocrine disruptors. Of course, cosmetic products are not the only sources of endocrine disruption, but they are part of it, and overexposure to multiple sources of endocrine disruptors on a daily basis is really problematic.

More information about endocrine disruptors (in French, soon to be available in English)

Verdict:

A formula that will certainly protect against UV rays, but which contains a whole series of chemical UV filters, some of which are very controversial (suspected endocrine disruptors). The multiplication of problematic and controversial ingredients also refers to the cocktail effect: chemical substances that, taken on their own, are harmless, but which can become harmful when mixed together.  In addition are a few polluting ingredients to help improve the future of our children, the state of the planet and pollute the oceans…I’m joking, well not entirely. A product for children that does not really respect the environment will not respect its future, it’s as simple as that…. So we are quite far from the concept of “even more sustainable beauty”.

All too often, we rely solely on the protection provided by sun creams (which only provide partial protection), without taking into account the context (phototype/place of exposure/time/background, etc.).

The following article also provides more explanations on this subject. (in French, soon to be available in English)

*********

We are not the only ones to note that the formulations of sunscreen products are still often problematic.

The June 2020 edition of the German consumer magazine Ökotest, for example, also contained a product test on “sun creams for children”.

The test included a total of 21 products, both “conventional” and certified organic cosmetic brands. The products, analysed on the basis of their formulations, were downgraded because of the following ingredients:                                                                                                   

☀︎  Synthetic UV filters, such as Octorylene and Homosalate, suspected endocrine disruptors

☀︎ Polluting ingredients based on silicones or acrylates

☀︎ Lack of declaration of nanoparticles

☀︎ PEGs, pollutant ingredients, which can make the skin more permeable to other substances

☀︎ Mineral oil-based ingredients (paraffin type) environmental problem

*********

You can find similar articles  and product tests on the website

FILORGA
OPTIM-EYES LOTION
Eye Serum Makeup Remover
110 ml,  24,90 €

Filorga presents itself as the “the medi-cosmetic revolution” (=THE MEDI-COSMETIQUE REVOLUTION) highlighting “high performance anti-aging solutions (hyaluronic acid injections, anti-aging mesotherapy, peelings) used by leading aesthetic medical practitioners and surgeons in over 60 countries.” Filorga, therefore considers itself to be a brand directly “inspired by aesthetic medicine (….) with innovative preparations and high-tech agents developed in its Laboratory.”

So, by interpreting the marketing message and schematizing it slightly, we could imagine that Filorga possesses “formula secrets” which other bands don’t have and therefore their cosmetic treatments could be more “effective”, closer to the results obtained by cosmetic surgery, all this, of course, without having to pass by the operating theatre.  Great! It will save us some money!

So what about if we take a look behind the scenes to see which components Filorga works with?

Here is the manufacturer’s presentation of the product, Filorga Optim Eyes Serum*:

EYE CONTOUR³

DARK CIRCLES – PUFFINESS – WRINKLES

TRIPLE ACTION EYE CARE TO REDUCE DARK CIRCLES, UNDER-EYE BAGS AND WRINKLES IN A SINGLE STEP.

/ Dark circles: A (matrikines + chrysin) complex fosters the elimination of pigmented residue to reduce the colour of dark circles./ Puffiness: Powerful peptides act on microcirculation to decrease the volume of under-eye bags.Wrinkles: A trio of smoothing active ingredients containing hesperidin to remove creases from the eye area. Fresh, melting and moisturizing texture – can be refrigerated. 15ml. Filorga’s product is therefore a make-up remover that acts both as a serum for the eyes, “strengthening the eyelashes” and “revitalising the eyes”, thanks, most especially to the famous “oleo-clean” complex… A complete programme…

Let’s take a moment to check the composition of the product by analysing the list of components, in the INCI list more closely:

Ingredients/ INCI:

AQUA (WATER,), PARAFFINUM LIQUIDUM (MINERAL OIL), DIMETHICONE, ISOHEXADECANE, PENTYLENE GLYCOL, PEG-8 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES,BUTYLENE GLYCOL, SODIUM CHLORIDE, CAPPARIS SPINOSA FRUIT EXTRACT, OCTYLDODECYL MYRISTATE, PERFUME (FRAGRANCE), STYRENE/VP COPOLYMER, DISODIUM EDTA, ACETYL TETRAPEPTIDE-5, DEXTRAN, SORBIC ACID, ACETYL TETRAPEPTIDE-3, TRIFOLIUM PRATENSE (CLOVER) FLOWER EXTRACT, CI60725 (VIOLET 2), CI61565 (GREEN 6)

Component analysis:

Ingredient’s list analyzed with the website’s INCI Search tool

As always, it is the first 8-10 components that make up the majority of the product’s “profile”. The first component being present in the highest quantity with the following components presented in a descending order.

And the beginning of the list is composed of a series of components derived from petro chemistry (mineral oils) and silicones, Paraffinum Liquidum (2nd), Dimethicone (3rd), (silicone), Isohexadecane (4th) etc. These are the more “basic” moisturizing components, not very interesting in terms of beauty treatment properties, – apart from their moisturising powers (and their cost, which is much lower than vegetable oils, for example).To this are added some plant extracts and active beauty treatment ingredients. But in the end, the famous “oleo-clean complex” announced by Filorga, is far from being the basic foundation of the formulation, which consists of water, followed by a majority of components from petro chemistry. 

Some controversial substances have slipped into the formula of Filorga’s make-up remover:

• DIMETHICONE, part of the silicones, an environmentally problematic substance (non-biodegradable), polluting.
• Components based on mineral oils  Paraffinum Liquidum, Isohexadecane, etc.
• PEG-8 CAPRYLIC/CAPRIC GLYCERIDES. Part of the ethoxylated substances. Obtained from extremely reactive and toxic gases resulting from a chemical process which imposes the most stringent of safety measures. PEGs are also likely to make the skin barrier more permeable to other substances and are not very biodegradable, therefore polluting.
• The complexing agent Disodium EDTA, which is not very biodegradable and polluting.
• There is a question mark regarding the “Perfume”, as it is impossible to ascertain, with the simple INCI designation, whether these are natural fragrances (based on essential oils/fragrances) or conventional fragrances which may contain very controversial substances: phthalates or musk compounds, Lilial, etc.

Regarding Mineral oils

The German BFR recently published a reassuring conclusion regarding the application on the skin of cosmetic products based on mineral oils which do not pose health problems. This does not remove the issue of the occlusive effect in high concentration, nor the “inert” quality of the raw material, making it less interesting than mineral oils, or the environmental problem.

Verdict:

So this  famous “Two-phase make-up remover”: enriched with oleo-clean complex” highly praised by Filorga, is in fact an “ultra-classic formulation”, almost dated, whose basic components are derived from mineral oils or silicones, as well as other components which are problematic for the environment. All this distributed below in the list of the few interesting beauty care substances and plant extracts. Perhaps the “innovative formulas and high-tech ingredients” promoted by the brand are all hidden in other Filorga products?  A simple look at the formulations of creams or sunscreens on the site confirms the presence of many other controversial components (PHENOXYETHANOL, CHLORPHENESIN, SYNTHETIC FLUORPHLOGOPITE, HOMOSALATE, ETHYLHEXYL METHOXYCINNAMATE, BHT, etc., etc.…)“Innovative formulas” or perhaps not as innovative as all that (see product formulation) … boosted by controversial components… Thanks, we’ll come by another time.And we’ll also try to find other alternatives to cosmetic surgery, by the way.

As seen in other articles, there is often a gap between the product’s marketing claims… and the reality shown in the ingredient’s list.

****

Note; this article is from 2020

Product formulations can change, even an entire product line can change from year to year and the brand can choose to remove or add certain ingredients or even entirely remove products, for example. No consumer site or magazine constantly updates these changes, it would be a gigantic job, to do continuously. And the articles are not removed at the simple request of the brands who would explain that the formulas have changed since the test was published. The product test reflects “the exact image of the moment”,  and the tests are clearly dated.

BRUT
Antiperspirant
Original
Stick
50 ml, 3€

Some cosmetic products have no detailled product presentation, as is the case with BRUT Antiperspirant deodorant, where the manufacturer, Unilever, simply presents the composition of the product on its website. And if we continue along the lines of the brand’s advertising strategy, “Brut” is a raw, no frills, product which cuts to the chase. It’s a deodorant. It’s for guys. And that’s it.

So let’s get down to business: The list of components, BRUT Antiperspirant :

Ingredients/ INCI : Cyclomethicone, Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex GLY, PPG-14 Butyl Ether, Stearyl Alcohol, Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Talc, PEG-8 distearate, Parfum, BHT, Amyl Cinnamal, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Salicylate, Citral, Citronellol, Coumarin, Eugenol, Geraniol, Hydroxycitronellal, Limonene, Linalool

Ingredient’s list analyzed with the website’s INCI Search tool

And more information concerning fragrances like Citral, Geraniol, Limonene, etc  can be found on the website, too.

Component Analysis BRUT Antiperspirant :

The formula starts off powerfully with Cyclopentasiloxane in first position, a silicone based substance, suspected of being an endocrine disruptor. Next is an aluminium salt, Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex GLY, which is particularly problematic.

What’s the problem with aluminium salts in cosmetics?

Aluminum salts are reactive components, partially soluble, that can penetrate the body’s tissues. For some time now aluminium salts have been singled out in various studies, but the two most recent studies have once again revived the debate on the connection between aluminium salts in deodorants and the development of cancer. A 2016 Swiss study* “International Journal of Cancer”, Geneva, considered the implications of aluminium in the development of breast cancer. The study, by André-Pascal Sappino and Stefano Mandriota showed that deodorants containing aluminium salts cause tumours in guinea pigs.

And another study carried out last summer, Innsbruck Austria (July, 2017)*, published in EBioMedicine, particularly linked certain aluminium salts to the risk of developing breast cancer. The findings of this study: For those who, from an early age, have been using an antiperspirant containing aluminium salts several times a day on shaved underarms, the risk of developing breast cancer is doubled. As is often the case, the authorities’ response ( ANSES in France)* which is intended to reassure, proposes concentration restrictions (0.6%) which are not always respected.

“The data analysis proposed a restriction of aluminium concentration to 0.6% in antiperspirant or deodorant products.It should be noted that this restriction doesn’t apply to damaged skin being exposed to it, such as after shaving or micro cuts.Therefore, the Afssaps (French Health Products Safety Agency) recommends not to use antiperspirants containing aluminium on damaged skin.”

But the restriction recommendation remains only a suggestion.

According to information from the BfR* (German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment) “amounts of 20% are quite common in antiperspirants”. This would correspond to an aluminium content of about 5%.  The German Federation of Cosmetics and Cleaning Products Professionals’ newsletter (Industrieverbandes Körperpflege- und Waschmittel e.V. (IKW) reports concentrations of aluminium hydrochlorides of up to 30%, in antiperspirant creams for example. (IKW, 2012).

And there are other issues:

Aluminium salts block the sweat glands

Aluminum hydrochlorides and sulphates used in many conventional deodorants prevent sweat from beading on the surface of the skin, so they clog pores. This can lead to itching and skin irritation.

A distinction must be made with regard to aluminium-based components:

However, not all components that are called, or whose names begin, in INCI terms with “Aluminum” or “Alumina”, are “aluminium salts”.

It is important to distinguish between aluminium hydrochlorides* and aluminium oxides, hydroxides and silicates** (which are also part of the composition of clays, for example, see “bauxite” or “corundum”, naturally present in the earth).

*Aluminium chlorohydrates (among others)

• Aliminium Chloride
• Aluminium Chlorhydrate
• Aluminium Chlorhydrex
• Aluminium Chlorhydrex PG
• Aluminium Distearate
• Aluminium Sesquichlorohydrate
• Aluminium Starch Octenylsuccinnate
• Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex GLY

**Aluminium oxides/Hydroxides (among others)

+ Alumina (= aluminiumhydroxyde)

+ Aluminium/Magnesium Hyroxide Stearate

+ Aluminium Starch Otenylsuccinate

+ Aluminium Silicate

Aluminium oxides, silicates and hydroxides are chemically inert aluminas, i.e. they are not chemically reactive as they stand.

Aluminum oxides and hydroxides do not release aluminum, but this may be the case with aluminum hydrochlorides, which are considered soluble.

(By the way, avoid cooking food in foil with lemon... it is a sure way to increase aluminium content in food and therefore to absorb it)

And now back to our product, the BRUT Antiperspirant stick :

Analysis of components BRUT Antiperspirant :

 Controversial substances which have crept into the formula:

* Cyclopentasiloxane in first position. A silicone based substance, suspected to be an endocrine disruptor.

• Aluminum Zirconium Tetrachlorohydrex GLY, which is part of the aluminium salts, see issue explained above, restrictions of use (20%) in 2nd position, therefore present in large quantities.
• PEGs in 3rd and 7th position, PPG-14 Butyl Ether/PEG-8 distearate, are ethoxylated substances. Obtained from extremely reactive and toxic gases, resulting from a chemical process which demands the most stringent safety measures. PEGs are also likely to make the skin barrier more permeable to other substances and are not very biodegradable, therefore polluting.
•  BHT , studied as an endocrine disruptor and classified as a real problem (possibly carcinogenic) in some countries.

Conclusion BRUT Antiperspirant :

A completely “brute rough and ready” imitation which doesn’t even pretend…. An “impressive amalgam” of controversial and problematic components, not very commendable.

*******

Note; this article is from 2019

Product compositions can change, even an entire product line can change from year to year and choose to remove or add certain ingredients or even remove products, for example. No consumer site or magazine constantly updates these changes, it would be a gigantic job, to do continuously. And the articles are not removed at the simple request of the manufacturers who would explain that the formulas have changed since the test was published. On the other hand, the product test reflects “the exact image of the moment”, the tests are clearly dated.

NUXE
Body
Fondant Shower Gel
With almond and orange flower petals
Fine soap-free foam
400 ml , 8,80 €

NUXE is one of the brands which offers both certified organic ranges (the “Nuxe Organic Beauty” range) and products which are not certified. Sometimes this can cause confusion to customers who tend to believe that the entire brand is formulated in the same way. An analysis of the component list can be useful for products which are not certified.  The Fondant Shower gel selected here is not part of the certified range.

Here is the description of the product on the brand’s website:

“With almond and orange flower petals, this soap free Fondant Shower Gel gently cleanses the skin. An essential part of your daily routine, you’ll love its smooth foam and delicate fragrance.Ingredients of natural origin almond and orange flower petals … Paraben-free.”Contains at least 96 % of natural origin ingredients

Ingredients/ INCI: AQUA/WATER, SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE, GLYCERINE, CAPRYLYL/CAPRYL GLUCOSIDE, ACRYLATES/C10-30 ALKYL ACRYLATE CROSSPOLYMER, PARFUM/FRAGRANCE, PHENOXYETHANOL, GLUCONOLACTONE, SODIUM HYDROXIDE, SODIUM COCOAMPHOACETATE, LAURYL GLUCOSIDE, SODIUM BENZOATE, CITRIC ACID, TETRASODIUM EDTA, 1,2-HEXANEDIOL, CAPRYLYL GLYCOL, SODIUM COCOYL GLUTAMATE, SODIUM LAURYL GLUCOSE CARBOXYLATE, CALCIUM GLUCONATE, CITRUS AURANTIUM DULCIS (ORANGE) FLOWER EXTRACT, PRUNUS AMYGDALUS DULCIS (SWEET ALMOND) FLOWER EXTRACT, TROPOLONE [N2102/A].

Component analysis:

Ingredient’s list analyzed with the website’s INCI Search tool

As always, it is the first 5-8 components that make up the majority of the product’s “profile”. 

Generally speaking, a shampoo is made up of about 70% water, (or more). Then come washing bases (about 20%) and the rest, ancillary components (additives, plant extracts, etc.).As far as shampoos, (or even shower gels, for example), are concerned, what is essential is the choice of washing bases (also known as surfactants) which can either be very gentle, well tolerated by the skin, or irritating and/or problematic for the environment. The formulation here consists of a mixture of a irritating surfactant Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (2nd position), present in large quantities, combined and softened by softer surfactants such as Caprylyl/Capryl Glucosideine (4th) and Sodium Cocoamphoacetate and Lauryl Glucoside much lower.

We are still quite far from a “washing base of vegetal origin”.

The advantage of this type of formulation for manufacturers is that the main surfactant, Sodium Lauryl Sulphate, considered to be the most irritating surfactant, is also among the cheapest of the surfactants. The most gentle, skin-friendly sugar-based washing bases, “acylglutamates”, are also the most expensive. This is why there are very few products formulated exclusively with these very gentle washing bases.

But other problematic and controversial substances have also crept into the formula:

• Phenoxyethanol,  a controversial synthetic preservative, with a proven toxic potential (harmful to the liver, in particular).
• In addition to environmentally problematic raw materials, the film-forming agent Sodium Acrylates/C10-30 Alkylacrylate Crosspolymer, for ex.
• and Tetrasodium EDTA, polluting substances.

One might think that cosmetic components classified as “pollutants” would generally be “less problematic” than the controversial components classified as toxic to health. Except that everything is connected…

For example, plastic micro beads* that pollute lakes and oceans are ingested by fish. The fish that, later on, we eat.

This video shows a very graphic description of this:

• In France, the marketing of products containing plastic microbeads in rinsed cosmetics, products that are rinsed with water, have been banned as of 1 January 2018.  But the oceans and lakes are already heavily polluted by these substances. Plastic microbeads also come from other everyday products: laundry, clothing, etc.

But where have the “ingredients of natural origin” displayed in the description gone?

The “almond and orange flowers” praised in the product description have been relegated to the last three components in 20th and 21st position, so they are present in infinitesimal quantities.

Verdict:

In the category “problematic and controversial substances” we find: irritating surfactants, a dubious synthetic preservative and polluting components. And the percentage of natural ingredients displayed no longer makes much sense either. Not so great on the whole…. and quite far removed from the “vegetal promises”, of the flower petals.

******

Note; this article is from 2019

Product formulations can change, even an entire product line can change from year to year and the brand can choose to remove or add certain ingredients or even entirely remove products, for example. No consumer site or magazine constantly updates these changes, it would be a gigantic job, to do continuously.

And the articles are not removed at the simple request of the brands who would explain that the formulas have changed since the test was published. The product test reflects “the exact image of the moment”,  and the tests are clearly dated.

DIORSKIN Forever Undercover 24 Hour Full-Coverage Foundation 30 ml, 45,50 €

DIOR Forever Undercover Foundation under the spotlight

Product description and features – as presented on the DIOR website:

DESCRIPTION

“Dior Laboratories, experts in both finish and wear, reinvent extreme correction with Diorskin Forever Undercover. This fluid, 24-hour* full coverage foundation combines maximum complexion control with a natural matte finish for a result that is “”Kiss-Proof. Touch-Proof. Life-Proof. All Night. All Day.”” Peter Philips, Creative and Image Director for Dior Makeup, describes his view of this neo-camouflage: “Incorporated in a very fluid texture, the high concentration of pigments ensures perfect blemish correction. (…) “Diorskin Forever Undercover contains the highest level
of pigments in the range; almost twice as many as in the original Diorskin Forever fluid foundation, for a perfect camouflage. The water-based formula creates an ultra-fine, highly pigmented and weightless mesh on the skin, providing an imperceptible matte finish for 24 hours.*

In a similar previous article and product test (L’ORÉAL Accord Parfait Highlight Iluminateur August 2017) we also noticed that in make-up products the ingredients that play a major role are mineral ingredients, colour pigments, etc., supplemented by “more or less” natural substances for the hydration or texture part of the formula (fluid, matt, coverage etc.…) for example.

Absence of vegetal ingredients

Just as for the L’Oréal product, the presentation of the DIOR product doesn’t mention any natural or vegetal substances… which could imply that natural substances play a major role in this make-up product. For the simple reason that there is ABSOLUTELY NO authentic vegetal substance whatsoever in this product…
Not a drop of plant-based oil, natural wax, plant-based extract, or natural essential oil… The brand mentions a “water based” fluid, but as we are dealing with a foundation and not a floral water here, it is likely that water plays a minor role in the product’s features. In any case a “water-based” foundation or make-up product has not been invented yet. Of course there are also other “moisturising substances” such as glycerine, which can on the other hand, come from different sources: plant-based (vegetal oils), animal or synthetic. It is difficult to identify the exact sources of the glycerine used, by looking at the INCI list.
Natural & certified organic cosmetics on the other hand, basically do not allow plant-based glycerine, for other producers and brands, the question remains open.

INCI*/ Ingredients:

Cyclopentasiloxane (D5), Aqua (Water), Alcohol, Trimethylsiloxysilicate, Phenyl Trimethicone, PEG -, Glycerine, Silica, Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, Disteardimonium Hectorite, Sodium Myristoyl Glutamate, Butylene Glycol, Glyceryl Undecyl Dimethicone, Phenoxyethanol, Propylene Carbonate, VP/VA Copolymer, Parfum (Fragrance), Tetrasodium EDTA, Aluminum Hydroxide, Rosa Multiflora Fruit Extract, Linalool, Limonene, Citronellol, BHT
[+/- May contain: CI19140, CI42090, CI77007, CI77163, CI77491, CI77492, CI77499, CI77891)

Ingredients Analysis:

Ingredient’s list analyzed with the website’s INCI Search tool

But what jumps out at us, when we look at the overall formula, is that it is based entirely on synthetic ingredients, mainly silicones, for texture or moisturising, synthetic preservatives for conservation and synthetic solvents, etc.
As always, it’s the first 5-8 components, that make up the majority of the product’s overall “profile”. And the formula does not get off to a very good start, since the very first component, present in very great quantities, is a silicone-based component: Cyclopentasiloxane (D5) a suspected endocrine disruptor.

Other problematic components which have crept into the formula:

• Phenoxyethanol, a controversial synthetic preservative, proven to have toxic potential (particularly harmful for the liver)
• A whole bunch of environmentally problematic silicone-based ingredients, (non-biodegradable) polluting): Trimethylsiloxysilicate (4th), Phenyl Trimethicone (5th), Vinyl Dimethicone/Methicone Silsesquioxane Crosspolymer, (9th) Glyceryl Undecyl Dimethicone (13th)
• Tetra sodium EDTA, a problematic ingredient for the environment, polluting
• BHT, a chemical antioxidant (endocrine disruptor)
• PEGs, ethoxylated substances. Obtained from extremely reactive toxic gasses, resulting from a chemical process which imposes the most strict security measures. PEGs are also likely to make the skin barrier more permeable to other substances and are not very biodegradable, therefore polluting.
• CI19140 synthetic yellow dye (azo dye). Azo dyes (synthetic pigments) can trigger allergic reactions. Some azo dyes are classified “possible carcinogens”.

Therefore, to sum up, apart from water, alcohol and some covering pigments, the product is mainly based on synthetic ingredients, silicones, synthetic solvents and other controversial substances (synthetic preservatives classified as endocrine disruptors or other environmentally problematic substances)…

Verdict

Forever Undercover… The name is just perfect, with a formulation of this kind, the brand’s foundation, considered very high-end, has every reason to remain undercover and keep a low profile…

As seen in other articles, there is often a gap between the product’s marketing claims… and the reality shown in the ingredient’s list.

*****

Note; this article is from 2019

Product formulations can change, even an entire product line can change from year to year and the brand can choose to remove or add certain ingredients or even entirely remove products, for example. No consumer site or magazine constantly updates these changes, it would be a gigantic job, to do continuously. And the articles are not removed at the simple request of the brands who would explain that the formulas have changed since the test was published. The product test reflects “the exact image of the moment”,  and the tests are clearly dated.