Our Standard

At Hill and Sea Soap, we never use ingredients containing: SLS, SLES, Parabens, Phthalates, PEG's, Titanium Dioxide, Artificial Fragrances, or Artificial Dyes. 

Below, we explain the key concerns with common synthetic additives. These can irritate skin, disrupt hormones, or pose long-term risks—especially for sensitive skin, children, or frequent users. Always do your own research and come to your own individual conclusions.

  • SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulfate): A harsh detergent derived from petroleum or palm oils, used for foaming. It strips natural oils, causing dryness, irritation, and eczema flare-ups. The Cosmetic Ingredient Review (CIR) notes it can penetrate skin and irritate at concentrations >1%. Studies in the International Journal of Toxicology link prolonged exposure to contact dermatitis.
  • SLES (Sodium Laureth Sulfate): Similar to SLS but ethoxylated for milder lather. Often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable carcinogen per the EPA and IARC. It still dries skin and may cause eye/skin irritation. EU regulations limit 1,4-dioxane due to cancer risks in animal studies.
  • Parabens: Synthetic preservatives (e.g., methylparaben) mimicking estrogen. They penetrate skin and accumulate, potentially disrupting hormones and fertility. The EU bans certain parabens in cosmetics; FDA allows them but notes endocrine concerns. Danish studies link prenatal exposure to early puberty in girls.
  • Phthalates: Plasticizers in fragrances/soaps for flexibility/scent retention (often hidden as "fragrance"). Linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and asthma. CDC biomonitoring detects them in 97% of Americans; EWG rates high-concern phthalates as reproductive toxins based on rat studies showing birth defects.
  • PEG's (Polyethylene Glycols): Emulsifiers/thickeners that can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (IARC carcinogens). They enhance penetration of other chemicals, irritating compromised skin. CIR advises caution in leave-on products; a Toxicology study shows oxidative damage at high doses.
  • Titanium Dioxide: A whitening/opacifying agent. Inhaled nanoparticle forms are IARC "possibly carcinogenic" (lung tumors in rats), though topical use is safer. EU restricts it in sprays; skin absorption is low, but it may cause allergic reactions or photo-reactivity in sunscreens/soaps.
  • Artificial Fragrances: Mixtures of up to 3,000 chemicals, often including phthalates/allergens. Can trigger migraines, allergies, or respiratory issues. IFRA lists 26 allergens requiring labels; a Environmental Health Perspectives study associates synthetic scents with hormone disruption and skin sensitization in 1-2% of users.
  • Artificial Dyes (e.g., FD&C colors): Petroleum-based colors linked to hyperactivity in children (Southampton study) and skin rashes. Some like Red 40 are banned in EU foods/cosmetics due to cancer risks in animal tests. FDA approves them but acknowledges coal tar-derived dyes cause urticaria or contact dermatitis.

Interested in what we use? Head over to this page for our ingredient list!