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5 Skincare Ingredients Explained: A Simple Guide to Reading Labels

5 Skincare Ingredients Explained: A Guide to Reading Labels

Skincare labels can feel like they're written in another language. Here are five words you'll see a lot, what they mean, and what we do at Gracie & Co. 1942.

1. Parabens

Parabens are preservatives. They help stop mold and bacteria from growing in a product. You'll see names like methylparaben or propylparaben.

What we do: We don't use parabens.

2. Fragrance

"Fragrance" or "parfum" on a label can mean a mix of many scent ingredients. Both fragrance oils and essential oils can bother sensitive skin.

What we do: Our fragrance oils are phthalate-free. Our PURE collection uses essential oils. If scent bothers your skin, test a small spot first.

3. Sulfates

Sulfates like SLS and SLES make big bubbles in shampoos and body washes. For some people, they leave skin and hair feeling dry.

What we do: Our soaps and our NUTRIENT FOCUS Shampoo Bar are sulfate-free. Real bar soap doesn't need sulfates to lather.

4. Formaldehyde Releasers

These are preservatives that slowly release a tiny amount of formaldehyde. Some people are allergic. Look for names like DMDM hydantoin, diazolidinyl urea, imidazolidinyl urea and quaternium-15.

What we do: We don't use them.

5. Mineral Oil

Mineral oil comes from petroleum. The kind used in skincare is highly refined. It's not dangerous, but some people prefer plant oils and butters.

What we do: We use plant butters and oils, like shea butter, mango butter and coconut milk.

How to Read a Label

  • Ingredients are listed from most to least.
  • Read the whole list, not just the front of the box.
  • If you have a known allergy, check every product before you buy.
  • If something gives you a rash, stop using it and talk to your doctor.

Our Tip

Take a photo of the ingredient list of anything that bothers your skin. Over time, you'll see what your skin doesn't like.

Want simple ingredients you can read? Every bar we make has shea butter, coconut milk and kaolin clay. Browse our shop.

A little about us: I'm Gracie, a third-generation soap maker. My grandmother started our family's soap making, and I'm proud to carry it on. We're a small, faith-centered family business in Waddell, Arizona, and we make everything by hand in small batches.

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