Harmful Skincare Ingredients to Avoid & Why Grassfed Tallow Is a Safer Alternative

When it comes to skincare, what you put on your skin matters more than you might think. Your skin absorbs a lot of what you apply to it, which means the ingredients in your skincare products can make their way into your bloodstream. That’s why I’m always mindful of what I put on my own skin - and why I created OG GLOW to be a safer, more nourishing option for anyone looking to take better care of their skin.

There are so many harmful ingredients lurking in common skincare products, and understanding what they are and why they’re a problem is the first step toward cleaner, safer beauty. Here are some of the top harmful skincare ingredients I avoid, and why you might want to reconsider them too.

Parabens

Parabens are preservatives commonly found in lotions, creams, and shampoos. They help prevent bacteria from growing in the product, but they’re also linked to hormone disruption. Parabens can mimic estrogen in the body, potentially leading to issues like breast cancer or infertility, and they’re absorbed directly into your bloodstream through your skin. Over time, regular exposure can cause lasting health concerns.

Synthetic Fragrance

That lovely floral scent or fresh, citrusy smell in your favorite lotion? It’s likely from synthetic fragrance, a cocktail of chemicals that can cause skin irritation, headaches, and even hormone disruption. Synthetic fragrances can contain hundreds of hidden chemicals, and since they’re not required to be disclosed, you really never know what you’re putting on your skin.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) & Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)

These surfactants are added to many skincare and hair care products to create lather. While they might make your product feel more luxurious, they also strip your skin of its natural oils, leaving it dry and irritated. Over time, this can compromise your skin’s moisture barrier, leading to conditions like eczema or acne. If your skin feels tight or dry after using a cleanser, it’s a sign that SLS may be the culprit.

Alcohol (Isopropyl and Ethanol)

Many skincare products use alcohols like isopropyl alcohol or ethanol to give them a lightweight feel. But these alcohols can be harsh, drying out your skin and stripping it of its natural oils. They can also irritate sensitive skin, causing redness and inflammation. Long-term use can lead to increased dryness and premature aging, making your skin more vulnerable to the elements.

Mineral Oil & Petrolatum

Mineral oil and petrolatum are derived from petroleum and are used to create a barrier on the skin. While they may feel moisturizing at first, they don’t actually hydrate or nourish the skin. In fact, they can trap dirt and bacteria, clogging pores and leading to breakouts. Plus, because they don’t provide any nutrients to the skin, they can leave your skin looking dull and tired over time.

Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents

Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen, and while it’s banned in many countries, it’s still used in some beauty products as a preservative. Formaldehyde-releasing agents like DMDM Hydantoin and Quaternium-15 break down over time and slowly release formaldehyde into your product. Even low-level exposure can cause allergic reactions, irritation, and long-term health risks.

BHA and BHT

BHA (butylated hydroxyanisole) and BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) are synthetic antioxidants used to extend the shelf life of cosmetics and skincare products. However, both are considered to be potential hormone disruptors and have been linked to skin irritation, liver damage, and even cancer. Although they’re approved for use in cosmetics, long-term exposure to these chemicals could pose serious health risks.

 

Why Grass-fed/finished Tallow Is a Better Option

At OG GLOW, I believe in using only the purest, most nourishing ingredients. The core of our products is responsibly sourced grass-fed/finished tallow, packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K, plus essential fatty acids that deeply hydrate and repair. Tallow’s composition mirrors our skin’s natural oils, allowing it to absorb easily and work in harmony with your skin to lock in moisture and promote a healthy, glowing complexion.

I’ve also blended tallow with sweet almond oil, jojoba oil, and vitamin E oil to target specific skin concerns. Sweet almond oil is rich in antioxidants to protect against environmental stress, while jojoba oil mimics your skin’s natural sebum, making it perfect for all skin types. Vitamin E adds powerful anti-inflammatory benefits to soothe and heal. It also acts as a natural preservative to prolong the life of your products. 

To round it all off, I use organic and pure essential oils to naturally scent and enhance each formula - whether it’s calming lavender for sensitive skin or sweet orange to boost energy and skin brightness. Check out our Whipped Tallow Balms to see what the hype is about! 

By combining these responsibly sourced ingredients, I’ve created a range of products that nourish your skin without relying on harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, or preservatives. Whatever your skin needs—hydration, balance, or soothing—OG GLOW offers a safe, effective solution. 

 

In Conclusion

There’s a lot of misinformation when it comes to skincare, and many products on the market today are filled with ingredients that can do more harm than good. By avoiding these harmful chemicals and choosing products that are natural and nourishing—like the grassfed tallow in OG GLOW - you’re giving your skin the love and care it deserves.

When it comes to skincare, less is often more. Choose products that are simple, clean, and effective, and your skin will thank you with a glowing, healthy complexion. Ready to switch to a safer, more natural skincare routine? Your skin (and body) will feel the difference.