WE FORMULATE WITHOUT FUCA’S ‘DIRTY DOZEN’

12 ingredients known to anger sensitive skin.

Synthetic Fragrances

Fragrance blends can contain hundreds of undisclosed chemicals, including phthalates, allergens, and sensitisers. Behind the word 'Parfum' or 'Fragrance' on an ingredient list is a cocktail of chemicals that brands don't have to disclose as it is considered their intellectual property right. Crazy huh. Synthetic fragrances can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, skin irritations and has also been linked to endocrine disruption.

Synthetic preservatives

Synthetic preservatives in skincare can contain harmful chemicals like parabens and formaldehyde releasers, which may disrupt hormone function and pose risks to our health. They can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. Fuca avoids the widely used synthetic preservative phenoxyethanol as the FDA and European Commission has banned the use of phenoxyethanol over 1% in the US and EU respectively. With the average woman using 12 personal care and beauty products a day, exposure to these chemicals add up. Fuca believes phenoxyethanol should be avoided and we only use natural preservative systems approved by COSMOS (COSMetic Organic and Natural Standard).

Polyethylene Glycol (PEGs)

Used as emulsifiers, solvents, and thickeners in skincare products, PEG compounds can be contaminated with harmful impurities like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane, which are known carcinogens.

Alcohol

Alcohol is commonly used in skincare for its ability to dissolve and evaporate quickly, providing a lightweight texture and helping other ingredients penetrate the skin more effectively. Yet, alcohol can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to dryness, irritation, and accelerated aging.

Parabens

These synthetic preservatives, such as methylparaben, ethylparaben, and propylparaben, are known to disrupt hormone function and have been linked to reproductive issues and breast cancer.

Phthalates

Often used as plasticisers and fragrance carriers, phthalates like dibutyl phthalate (DBP) and dimethyl phthalate (DMP) can disrupt hormone balance, harm reproductive health, and potentially damage the liver, kidneys and lungs.

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

These harsh surfactants are commonly used in cleansers and foaming products to create a lather. They can strip the skin of its natural oils, leading to irritation, dryness, and disruption of the skin barrier.

Essential Oils

We love the aromatherapy benefits of essential oils, but not in our skincare. Essential oils can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and skin sensitivity. Some are not save to use during pregnancy.

Mineral Oils

Derived from petroleum, mineral oil and its derivatives (e.g. paraffin oil, petrolatum), form a barrier on the skin that can clog pores and prevent the skin from breathing. This can lead to acne breakouts and worsen skin conditions like eczema.

Silicones

Silicones in skincare are used to create a smooth, silky texture that helps skincare products spread easily and evenly across the skin, but silicones can clog pores and exacerbate acne or other skin conditions. They can form a barrier on the skin that may trap dirt, bacteria, and impurities, leading to breakouts. Some individuals may find that silicones can cause skin irritation or sensitivity.

Synthetic dyes

Synthetic dyes can contain harmful chemicals such as coal tar derivatives, which may cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even be linked to cancer. 

Oxybenzone

A common chemical sunscreen ingredient, oxybenzone can penetrate the skin and disrupt hormone function. It has been linked to allergic reactions, hormone disruption, and coral reef damage.