Ingredients we avoid to use in our products
We avoid to use several ingredients commonly found in cosmetics, due to their potential to cause irritation, allergic reactions or skin barrier hurt for our fragile eye skin.
Benzalkonium Chloride (BAK)
This preservative, often used in eye drops, eyeliners, and mascaras, is known to disrupt the tear film and damage ocular surface cells, which can worsen dry eyes and irritate sensitive skin around the eyes.
Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde
These preservatives are used in some skincare and beauty products but can be harmful to delicate eye - area skin, potentially leading to meibomian gland dysfunction and dry eye symptoms.
Parabens
Commonly found in various cosmetics, parabens are associated with hormonal disruption and can exacerbate dryness and irritation around the eyes.
Phenoxyethanol
Used as a preservative in products like mascara, eyeliner, and eye creams, phenoxyethanol can cause irritation, burning, or stinging, particularly in sensitive individuals.
Kohl (or Surma)
Kohl, a traditional eyeliner ingredient containing lead and other heavy metals, is banned in some countries due to its toxicity risks.
Retinol
Research also points to risks for the Meibomian glands (which help keep eyes lubricated), as retinoids may disrupt their function, potentially causing dry eye syndrome.
Artificial Fragrances
Often cause sensitivity and allergic reactions in the thin skin around the eyes.
Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)
Ingredients like glycolic and lactic acid are powerful exfoliants that can lead to irritation.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Often too harsh, it can dry and irritate the skin near the eyes.
Benzoyl Peroxide
Common in acne treatments, it is highly drying and may cause redness or flaking around the eyes.
Mineral Oils
Risks include causing pore - clogging, milia, potential irritants, and comedogenic issues. Mineral oils are occlusive, which may trap dirt, bacteria and other impurities. Also, they usually feel heavy and may not be ideal for the delicate eye area.
Sulfates
Such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), are common foaming agents and surfactants. They can be harsh, causing irritation, dryness, potential allergens and pH imbalance, especially on delicate or sensitive skin around the eyes.
Phthalates
Often used as stabilizers and fragrance carriers in cosmetics. However, they’ve raised concerns due to potential health risks and irritation, like potential hormone disruption and skin sensitization, particularly for sensitive skin.
Alcohols
Certain types, specifically "simple" or "drying" alcohols, can cause dryness, irritation, and other unwanted effects in this delicate area.