Your bathroom cabinet might be harboring some unwelcome guests. While the U.S. beauty industry continues to grow, regulation of cosmetic ingredients remains surprisingly limited. In fact, while over 80 countries have banned more than 1,600 chemicals in personal care products, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has only restricted nine. What does this mean for your skincare routine? It’s time to take a closer look at what you’re putting on your face.

Waterproof mascara and long-lasting lipstick concerns

That waterproof mascara might be great for beach days, but research shows it could be hiding a toxic secret. Recent studies found that 82% of waterproof mascaras contain high levels of fluorine, indicating the presence of PFAS – also known as “forever chemicals.” Similarly, 62% of long-lasting lipsticks tested positive for these concerning compounds. Consider switching to natural mascara alternatives that use plant-based waxes instead of synthetic waterproofing agents.

Anti-aging creams with questionable ingredients

Many anti-aging products contain ingredients that might accelerate skin aging in the long run. Mercury, still found in some anti-aging and skin-lightening creams, poses serious health risks. Instead, opt for natural anti-aging creams with ingredients like glycerin, tea tree oil, or elderberry extract.

Products with hidden formaldehyde releasers

Formaldehyde-releasing agents lurk in many skincare products under innocent-sounding names. These preservatives slowly release formaldehyde over time, a chemical now banned in several states including California and Maryland. Check your product labels for ingredients like DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15, and bronopol.

Multi-step routines that strip natural barriers

Sometimes less really is more. Complex skincare routines with multiple cleansers, toners, and treatments can actually damage your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Many users report better results after simplifying their routines to just a few essential products. Consider scaling back to a gentle cleanser and moisturizer, adding targeted treatments only as needed.

Products with misleading natural claims

Terms like “naturally derived” and “clean beauty” have no standardized definitions. Companies can use these marketing claims even when products contain synthetic ingredients or potentially harmful chemicals. Read ingredient lists carefully rather than trusting front-label claims.

What if you discovered your “natural” moisturizer contained more synthetic ingredients than a conventional one? This happens more often than you might think. Major retailers like CVS, Target, and Walgreens are already phasing out many controversial ingredients from their store-brand products, even though these chemicals remain legal in the U.S.

Take a gradual approach to updating your skincare routine. As products run out, replace them with safer alternatives that have simpler ingredient lists. Focus especially on products that stay on your skin longest, like moisturizers and serums. Look for brands that are transparent about their ingredients and avoid those with fragrance, which can hide numerous undisclosed chemicals.

Remember that expensive doesn’t always mean better. Many costly products contain the same questionable ingredients as their drugstore counterparts. Instead of price, focus on ingredients. Your skin, and potentially your overall health, will thank you for making these thoughtful switches to safer alternatives.