mlms

MLMs Exposed: Healthiest vs Unhealthiest Brands (2025)

Author: Nicole
Natural Mom Reviews

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While multi-level marketing (MLM) companies provide the allure of flexible work hours and the potential of passive income that leads to a beacon of hope toward financial freedom, they are often also a source of skepticism. However, not all MLM companies are created equal—especially when it comes to the products they offer. As you become increasingly health-conscious, looking for the information needed to make a fully informed decision, it's only natural to ask: “How do you differentiate between MLMs that genuinely prioritize wellness and those that just aim to profit?”

This article is a result of my own personal journey and research asking that exact question.

Being immunocompromised, I experienced unexpected reactions to products from brands I once relied on. This prompted me to explore healthier options that would better support my health. I turned to crunchy mom groups for suggestions and was surprised by what I discovered. As a natural-minded mom, herbalist, and disabled veteran, I was frustrated by the number of companies claiming to be ‘fully nontoxic,' ‘all natural,' and ‘chemical-free.' I couldn't keep this information to myself, so I'm sharing it with you.

In this article, you'll find a list of various network marketing companies, their offerings, and scrutinized ingredient lists set up specifically for potential marketers and discerning consumers – because YOU deserve to have full informed consent before purchasing something to use in your home or on your family, and to potentially promote to other families in your life.

In this article, you'll find a list of various network marketing companies, their offerings, and scrutinized ingredient lists set up specifically for potential marketers and discerning consumers – because YOU deserve to have full informed consent before purchasing something to use in your home or on your family, and to potentially promote to other families in your life.

My Experience Choosing a Non-toxic Brand

For over a decade, I've advocated online and in person for adopting healthier products in the home. It was one of the fundamental changes I made with my own healing journey that had significant results in reducing my seizures and improving my weakness. Since my healing journey, I've personally helped thousands of families through similar stories… improving their health by discontinuing the use of harsh products (through replacing products with MLM and non-MLM options, teaching in my online courses, and through DIY suggestions).

Choosing a nontoxic brand to partner with is something very close to my heart that I spent a considerable amount of time researching (and expense in trying the few brands that looked the best). I've dedicated myself to thorough research and personal experience to bring you the most reliable information. My commitment to you, the reader, is to provide the knowledge needed to make informed choices for your health and wellbeing.

10 years after my initial healing, I ended up with a severe liver condition (initiated by chemical exposure while serving in the military and further progressed from chemical exposure at home). This sparked my further investigation with the company I had been promoting (and no longer do), which resulted in finding that the corporate culture, ingredients, and quality standards had changed without clear communication. I re-initiated my research to look for a new company to switch to that was more aligned with my faith, values, and standards for living a healthy lifestyle.

Honestly, my loyalty goes beyond the brand… my loyalty goes to those whom I'm helping and inspiring. I can only ethically promote a company I am willing to use and believe in, even if that company needs to change over time. My commitment is to you, the reader, and to helping you make informed choices for your health and wellbeing.

The top 10 toxic ingredients found in common personal care products, such as shampoo, conditioner, makeup, deodorant/antiperspirants, lotions, soaps, cleaners, detergents… etc:

  1. Parabens
  2. Fragrance (or Parfum)
  3. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate and Sodium Laureth Sulfate
  4. Phthalates
  5. Polyethylene Glycol (PEG)
  6. Formaldehyde
  7. Diethanolamine
  8. Triclosan
  9. Benzoyl Peroxide
  10. Artificial Dyes and Colors

Unfortunately, the ingredients listed above may be found using various label names (or synonyms) and is not an exhaustive list of harmful ingredients. I do teach this in my Healthy Home course that dives deep into the main chemicals to avoid and calls out the ‘Greenwashing' tactics used by too many companies today.

‘Greenwashing' is a marketing ploy to make products appear more natural or environmentally friendly than they actually are. For example, some companies add harmful chemicals into the term ‘fragrance' so you can't see them, or use generic terms like ‘surfactant' to hide the true nature of the ingredients.

The top 10 toxic ingredients found in common personal care products, such as shampoo and conditioner, makeup, deodorant/antiperspirants, lotions, soaps… etc:

  • Ascorbyl Palmitate – It’s likely this comes from GMO corn, unless otherwise specified. 
  • Artificial Colors – added simply to make your supplements look more appealing, many of the bright colors used for supplements are carcinogenic and have been linked to increased allergies. Others are derived from coal tar, a toxic substance used for roofing and exterior paints. You can tell they're artificial by the “FD&C” or “lake” in the label, or a number after the color.
  • Artificial Flavors – this includes sucralose, aspertame, etc. It can cause type 2 diabetes, various cancers, cardio problems, and weight gain.
  • Carrageenan – found in many “healthy” foods, carrageenan is a thickener that can cause significant gastrointestinal distress.
  • Citric acid – this is the synthetic version of vitamin C, usually derived from GMO black mold, unless otherwise specified.
  • Dicalcium Phosphate – a cheap form of calcium that is not easily absorbed by your body, often used as a capsule filler.
  • Gelatin – an animal protein often sourced from low-quality, GMO-fed, factory-farmed animals, unless otherwise specified.
  • Hydrogenated Oils – found in highly processed foods, these health-damaging oils are rich in trans fats and are known to decrease good cholesterol (HDL) and increase bad cholesterol (LDL). According to the FDA 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans: “… partially hydrogenated oils (PHOs), the major source of artificial trans fat in the food supply, are no longer Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).”
  • Lactose – this common allergen is a type of sugar found in milk and is often sourced from GMO grain-fed cows treated with medications.
  • Magnesium Silicate (or Talc) – often used in deodorant and cosmetics, this additive is similar in composition to asbestos and is not currently considered food grade by the FDA.
  • Magnesium stearate and stearic acid – found in 90% of supplements to speed up manufacturing and cut costs, is often derived from factory-farmed animals, and contains no nutritional benefit.
  • Potassium Sorbate – an additive used to extend the shelf life of food and supplements. It may lead to migraines and allergic reactions.
  • Sodium Ascorbate – made from GMO corn, unless otherwise specified. GMO corn is heavily exposed to harmful pesticides and should be avoided.
  • Sodium Benzoate – a preservative that becomes a carcinogen substance known as benzene when mixed with vitamin C or citric acid. Ingesting foods or beverages containing high levels of benzene may cause stomach irritation, tiredness, dizziness, vomiting, and convulsions.
  • Soybean Oil – often comes from genetically modified soy that’s been heavily exposed to chemical pesticides during production. Soybean oil can also cause problems for people with a peanut or soy allergies, and has estrogenic effects that may contribute to various cancers.
  • Sulfites – sulfites are known to cause severe asthma reactions and are also a common trigger for migraines.
  • Titanium Dioxide – this toxic additive is a colorant used to make tablets and capsules bright white and is typically used in paint, cosmetics, paper, and sunscreen. This filler has no nutritional value and may cause kidney damage, induce small intestine inflammation, and potentially lead to cancer.

It’s essential to note that not all supplements containing these ingredients are necessarily toxic, and some may be labeled as “safe” by the manufacturer. However, choosing high-quality supplements from reputable manufacturers and reading labels carefully to avoid exposure to these toxic ingredients is essential.

Benefits of Choosing To Join a Non-Toxic Mlm

Choosing a multi-level marketing (MLM) opportunity that aligns with the nontoxic lifestyle movement offers a unique blend of personal and communal benefits. Beyond financial incentives, this allows you to immerse yourself in a community that promotes health and well-being.

By selling products free from harmful chemicals, you're not just pushing items; you’re actively advocating for living a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being – both on individual and environmental levels.

Engaging with healthy products within an MLM enables you to educate others about their importance while building your personal brand. The narrative of prioritizing natural ingredients invites conversations around sustainability and conscious consumerism, positioning you as a thought leader among peers seeking alternatives in their daily lives.

This role can be deeply fulfilling. It empowers you to positively impact your health journey along with those around you who want to join your journey. I spent over 10 years living this and can tell you from personal experience there are endless emotional rewards for helping other families adopt a healthier lifestyle and seeing their testimonies.

And, of course, the financial incentives help you to afford higher quality products without sacrificing other living expenses or financial priorities, which is increasingly helpful with the continuing rising costs of life (especially in an economy like today where 2 incomes may not be enough).

Ultimately, by choosing an MLM rooted in nontoxic principles, you invest in your future and contribute meaningfully to a larger movement toward safer choices for our homes and communities.

Identifying Non-Toxic MLM Companies

When choosing to shop through any brand, whether MLM or not, it's critical to identify the companies that prioritize ethical practices and sustainability. Unfortunately, many claim to be healthy and nontoxic, but that may not mean exactly what you think it does.

In fact, to say “nontoxic” legally means that they're not using any government-banned ingredients. So from a legal standpoint, a company can still use endocrine disruptors and carcinogens and claim to be nontoxic (legally) at the same time.

I've also seen an alarming trend of companies insisting they are “PFAS-free” because they don't have an ingredient on the label marked “PFAS.” Meanwhile, it's still prevalent in many packaging and contaminated ingredients these “PFAS-free” brands are using.

Another alarming testing trend is a company will pay for “3rd party testing,” and give the testers specific instructions to skew the results, like placing the product in water, not stir, and wait 1 hour for the product to settle at the bottom before testing the water on the very top.

One key feature of a nontoxic MLM is transparency. This goes far beyond marketing keywords that trigger an emotional response… but whether they are open and honest about everything.

When I mention everything… I mean it. Do they offer simple access to a detailed compensation plan and income disclosure (as legally required by the FTC)? If not, it indicates they're willing to hide other things too.

Do they provide thorough ingredient lists without generic descriptive words like “fragrance” or “surficant”? Do they discuss sourcing with specifics (or are they willing to disclose it if you call them)? Or are they generic statements like: “best suppliers all over the world!”

Such dedication indicates a viable business strategy and an alignment with your values as a consumer and marketing participant.

A List of Popular “Non-Toxic” MLM Companies

To keep this simple, I'm listing companies that say they're in the wellness and nontoxic industry, categorized by who is the worst and best.

Please remember, this list is organized based on my personal preferences, based on over a decade of research and personal experiences. It takes into consideration Consumer Reports and independent 3rd party testing.

If your company isn't on here or you're looking into a company that isn't on here, you're welcome to request me to look into it using the form on my contact page.

A Note to current reps: I'm unavailable to argue about the marketing involved in each company's ingredients. I'm aware of sourcing differences and know many individuals will be triggered by this post because their opportunity is “the best.” This article isn't to decrease your recruiting potential… it is to serve families like mine who place ingredient lists as a top priority when choosing which products to use (and which to endorse). We all deserve to have full informed consent before making a purchase. I'm also painfully aware of deceptive ‘greenwashing' marketing practices that trigger emotional responses and company climates that cause reps to become hostile in defending their company, which isn't necessary… if you're offended by any of this information, use it as fuel to encourage your company to make beneficial improvements. I'm only documenting what I have found through talking with numerous brands in countless conversations, searching for publicly available information, talking with reps within the companies, and talking with field experts to gain greater clarity.

For the sake of length, this article does not disclose my personal experiences or preferences with various companies (many of which caused me to cancel subscriptions and not promote them). In those cases, you will be offered a link to my personal review for each company my family has tried.

I do encourage full informed consent before becoming involved with promoting a company.

The Least Healthy “Non-Toxic” MLMs

This is a list of MLMs claiming to be healthy and nontoxic (legally, they are “nontoxic”). However, after looking into product ingredients, sourcing, and 3rd party testing, I cannot ethically endorse them, especially as a natural-minded mom and herbalist.

Major detractors causing me to include these companies in my least healthy list come from the company using artificial flavorings, artificial coloring, artificial fragrances, artificial sweeteners (like sucralose), bioengineered/GMO ingredients, harsh chemicals (like quats, parabens, phthalates, PEGs…etc), or not disclosing ingredients. I also categorize brands here for undisclosed fragrances. “Fragrance/Parfum” is a hiding place for many harmful chemicals.

Aluva is a wellness and skincare brand that also sells athletic-leisure clothing.

Personal care, makeup, and home care ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

** Not all skincare products had ingredient label available to be viewed.

Supplement and drink products from Aluva did not disclose nutritional information or ingredient lists on the website.

Amway (Quixtar) is an older MLM company who is a one-stop-shop for nutrition, supplements, skincare, haircare, body care, cleaners, jewelry, air purifiers, water purifiers, and more.

Amway is often mentioned in natural-minded mom groups with claims to include “cleaners are so healthy they are safe enough to eat.” I do have an Amway review, if you're interested in reading it, based on my own personal experiences using them.

Personal care, makeup, and home care ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Alumina (inorganic compound aluminum oxide) – may cause allergies and respiratory distress. Also may cause neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Aluminum – often found in antiperspirants to help you sweat less by clogging your pores, and in toothpaste along with other food and cosmetic additives. Aluminum as an ingredient can cause hormone imbalances, allergies, cancers, and neurological disruptions (like dementia).
  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) – a preservative known for disrupting the endocrine system (hormones), carcinogen, neurotoxin, may disrupt and suppress the immune system, respiratory system, and cause irritation and allergic reactions to the skin. May also be toxic to several organs and systems within your body (liver, thyroid, kidney, lung, circulatory system, reproductive system).
  • BPA (Bisphenol A) – used to produce plastics. May cause infertility and reproductive issues, obesity, metabolic disorders (including Type 2 Diabetes), chronic inflammation, heart disease, cancers, behavioral issues (including ADHD), hyperactivity, and disrupt fetal development. Research has shown these effects may even be caused by low exposure amounts.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Cyclopentasiloxane – is a silicon-based cyclic compound used to help lower product production costs that may cause environmental toxicity, neurotoxicity , cancer, and disrupt your endocrine system (hormones). This ingredient is known to bioaccumulate in humans and in wildlife (through wastewater contamination). It also has high contamination concerns for Cyclotetrasiloxane (endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental toxicity, possible liver toxicity, and increases the penetration of the product into your body while causing additional bioaccumulation).
  • Dimethicone – a silicon-based polymer used as a lubricant and conditioning agent. It also has high contamination concerns for Cyclotetrasiloxane (endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental toxicity, possible liver toxicity, and increases the penetration of the product into your body while causing additional bioaccumulation) and Cyclopentasiloxane (neurotoxin, endocrine disruptor, organ toxicity, cancers, and additional contamination concerns for cyclotetrasiloxane – also is persistent with bioaccumulation in humans and wildlife).
  • FD&C and D&C “lake” artificial colorings – petroleum-based colorants used to make cosmetics and food items more colorful and appealing. Artificial colorings (especially the “lake” colorants) are known allergens, carcinogens, neurotoxins, and can trigger hypersensitivity and hyperactivity, along with other behavioral issues. They increase inflammation, and can cause adrenal and kidney problems.
  • Iron Oxides – used as colorants, UV protection, and antioxidants in a variety of skincare and cosmetic products. They often contain heavy metal contamination (lead, mercury, arsenic, etc), which can be harmful when absorbed through your skin. Iron oxides are also known for being allergens and causing skin reactions.
  • Methylchloroisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, sensitization (skin issues after repeated use), respiratory problems, neurotoxicity, and organ toxicity. The European Commission banned its use and Canada Health has restricted its use, but this chemical is still allowed for use in the US.
  • Methylisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative in liquid personal care products, often paired with methylchlorosisothiazolinone. It may cause allergic reactions, lung toxicity, neurotoxicity, and skin irritation. Many countries limit its use, and it is banned in the UK and Canada.
  • Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate) – a chemical UV filter used in many personal care products to block UVB rays from your skin. Health concerns include endocrine (hormone) disruption, neurotoxicity, bioaccumulation, biochemical changes (on cellular levels), harmful to your liver, suppresses the immune system, potential reproductive harm, and has toxic effects on aquatic life.
  • Parabens – synthetic preservatives in cosmetics and personal care products intended to reduce harmful mold and bacteria growth. They are known to cause hormone disruption (mimicking estrogen), cancers, skin irritation, allergic reactions, and toxicity. They've been banned in Europe.
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Petroleum – a skin lubricant and protectant. Petroleum products may cause 1,4 dioxane contamination. It is known for causing liver toxicity, kidney toxicity, neurological toxicity, reproductive toxicity, and respiratory toxicity, plus also serves as a leading groundwater contaminant.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) – a synthetic polymer resin used as a film-former and viscosity-increasing agent in skincare and cosmetics. It is often contaminated with methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, and benzene (carcinogen). It is toxic to the immune system and respiratory system, also causing allergies.
  • PPG-12 Buteth-16 – a synthetic polymer used for skin and hair conditioning that is created through the chemical reaction of polypropylene glycol with ethylene oxide and butyl alcohol. Contamination concerns include ethelene oxide, 1,4-dioxane, and butyl alcohol. It causes eye, skin, and lung irritation. Some studies also show concerns about its potential to cause liver toxicity and renal lesions. It is notable to add the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Panel was aware of these findings, but was not concerned.
  • Propylene Glycol – while not usually considered harmful, it can be if you have underlying health issues (especially kidney, metabolic, or liver disease). It is a synthetic liquid used to prevent caking, improve texture, skin or hair conditioner, antifreeze, and as a solvent. May cause allergies and respiratory issues (in about 4% of the population), central nervous system depression, acidosis, immune system toxicity, kidney damage, and liver disease. It may also break down into carcinogenic compounds if heated during processing.
  • QUATs (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds) – odorless antimicrobial disinfectants, sanitizers, and preservatives designed to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and fungi. They're commonly used in cleaners, cosmetics, and lotions. They contribute to indoor air pollution through VOCs (volatile organic compounds), increasing the risk of developing asthma and cancer. The biggest issue is quats are completely overkill for household cleaning needs. While they are a powerhouse in killing pathogens, there has not been a single study showing they reduce illness with use… however, they are known for creating superbugs that become resistant to both Quats and other antibiotics. They do stick to whatever you clean, leaving a film, causing you to be re-exposed every time you touch that surface, leading to additional exposures you may not notice – exposures that takes months of daily cleaning to end. This is especially problematic if you're using that same surface to prepare food. Quats can cause as much harm to your respiratory system as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day! It is also a known skin irritant and disrupts your skin's microbiome. They're also known to damage fertility, reproductive, and developmental wellbeing, and have been linked to cancer and neural tube defects.
  • Sulfates – a type of natural or synthetic surfactant or detergent in personal care products, cleaners, and food derived from sulfuric acid and alkali metals (like sodium or ammonium), used to bind fat, oil, grease, and dirt. They can cause eye, skin, and lung irritation, aggravate allergies, cause allergic reactions, trigger migraines, disrupt your vitamin B1 intake, digestion upset, and disrupt gut microbiome.
  • Talc – a mineral of magnesium, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen, used in many cosmetic products to absorb moisture. Some talc may be contaminated with asbestos, but the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies talc as “probably carcinogenic” based on evidence that it causes ovarian cancer. It may also cause skin and respiratory system irritation.
  • Tetrasodium EDTA (Ethylenediaminetetraacetic Acid) – derived from formaldehyde and sodium cyanide, and is a chelating agent used in personal care products to decrease the reactivity of metal ions present in the product. It binds with metals in a manner that may cause a zinc deficiency and other related health issues. It is also known to cause reproductive organ system toxicity, and may cause skin, eye, and lung irritation. It also enhances penetration of other ingredients it's mixed with, causing more to be absorbed into your skin. EWG has classified it as an expected toxin, but there is no evidence it bioaccumulates.
  • Triethanolamine (TEA) – a synthetic viscous liquid used as a surficat, pH adjuster, and fragrance ingredient. It lacks definitive studies as to whether it is safe, but current research suggests potential health risks, including cancer, skin and eye irritation, triggering allergies, and respiratory and immune system damage. It also has a high risk of being contaminated with nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.


Food products contain:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.
  • Synthetic Vitamins – some synthetic vitamins may not be easily recognized by your body, causing reduced bioavailability and absorption, and also may cause you to become confused if you find you're deficient in a vitamin you thought you were taking. Synthetic vitamins may not provide the same health benefits as natural ones due to chemical structure and bonding differences. Unfortunately, they are cheaper, causing many companies to use them in an effort to maximize profits.
  • Sucralose (Splenda) – a synthetic chlorinated sugar approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar. May cause metabolic disorders, including Type 2 Diabetes, negatively impact your gut microbiome, and epigenetic changes (affecting gene expression and cellular behavior). Unfortunately, there are no long-term studies.

Many supplements and food products from Amway are very high in sugar.

Arbonne is a cosmetic and skincare company who also sells a limited variety of supplements. They market as being “non-toxic,” and are among a list of “healthy” MLMs promoted among natural-minded moms.

Arbonne does not disclose a full ingredient list for all the products on its website.

Of the products I was able to easily analyze, I found enough to not feel comfortable endorsing the brand in general:

  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
    Betaine may interact with medications for liver disease, heart disease, or kidney stones, and should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
  • FD&C and D&C “lake” artificial colorings – petroleum-based colorants used to make cosmetics and food items more colorful and appealing. Artificial colorings (especially the “lake” colorants) are known allergens, carcinogens, neurotoxins, and can trigger hypersensitivity and hyperactivity, along with other behavioral issues. They increase inflammation, and can cause adrenal and kidney problems.
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Polysorbate – a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier used in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. They're made through a chemical reaction of polyoxyethylene and fatty acids. They may contain manufacturing contamination with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (known carcinogens). They may also cause skin irritations, allergies, and risk fetal development and reproductive harm.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!
  • Sodium Benzoate with Citric Acid – When sodium benzoate and citric acid are combined, there is a risk of them reacting to form benzene, a known carcinogen.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum (pthalate-free)- a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Food products contain natural flavors

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Arieyl prides itself in “not being your mamma’s wellness company,” providing a variety of wellness supplements and beauty products, including CBD-infused items.

Skincare and body care ingredients to be aware of:

  • Concentrated Cream Base – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. There is no legal definition to “concentrated cream base,” and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These generic ingredient terms may also involve petrolatum/petroleum, plasticizers, PEGs, solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Supplement ingredients to be aware of”

  • Natural Bitter Blocking Agent – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These agents can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Natural Color – the lack of transparency is misleading. While natural is better than artificial, companies are still allowed to use artificial preservatives and other additives. “Natural color” can still cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity, cognitive concerns, cancers, and cell mutations (especially in children). Some additives are allowed in the US but not overseas (specifically E16Of).
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold do contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

Asea Global provides skincare and wellness supplements, however, it does not provide a single product label on any product listing or otherwise easily accessible on their website.

Audere is a luxury hair care brand whose products “are formulated with clean, natural formulas free from sulfates, parabens, and harsh chemicals… to strengthen, hydrate, and nourish hair from the inside out while maintaining your hair’s natural moisture using only the best natural ingredients.”

Ingredients in Audere's hair and skin care products you should be aware of include:

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Cocamidoprypyl PG-Dimonium Chloride Phosphate – a quaternary ammonium salt (QUAT) derived from coconut oil and used as a surfactant and emulsifier in personal care products, shampoos, and skincare. It may cause skin reactions, and has shown to be harmful to the reproductive system, endocrine system, nervous system, respiratory system and non-reproductive organs.
    Contamination concerns: COCAMIDOPROPYL DIMETHYLAMINE (skin reactions, environment toxin), 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity), and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Polyquaternium-7 (PQ-7)- a QUAT used in hair care and body care products as a conditioning and moisturizing agent. It acts as a humectant, drawing water from the atmosphere to the skin or hair. May be an environmental toxin and may be harmful to non-reproductive organs.
    Contamination concern: Acrylamide – carcinogen
  • Propylene Glycol – while not usually considered harmful, it can be if you have underlying health issues (especially kidney, metabolic, or liver disease). It is a synthetic liquid used to prevent caking, improve texture, skin or hair conditioner, antifreeze, and as a solvent. May cause allergies and respiratory issues (in about 4% of the population), central nervous system depression, acidosis, immune system toxicity, kidney damage, and liver disease. It may also break down into carcinogenic compounds if heated during processing.
  • Sodium Benzoate with Citric Acid – When sodium benzoate and citric acid are combined, there is a risk of them reacting to form benzene, a known carcinogen.
  • Stearalkonium Chloride – a quaternary ammonium salt (QUAT) used as an anti-static agent, surficant, and antimicrobial ingredient in skin and hair care products (conditioners). It may be harmful to the neurological system, endocrine (hormone) system, and non-reproductive organs
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum (pthalate-free)- a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Avon is an older MLM company who sells skincare, cosmetics, bath and body products, hair care products, personal and home fragrances, fashion, pet care, cleaning products, and supplements.

Ingredients that should be avoided include:

  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.
  • Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) – a surficant used in many cleaners and personal care products that may cause skin irritation, allergic reaction, and eye problems. It may also be toxic to aquatic life.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Methylchloroisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, sensitization (skin issues after repeated use), respiratory problems, neurotoxicity, and organ toxicity. The European Commission banned its use and Canada Health has restricted its use, but this chemical is still allowed for use in the US.
  • Methylisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative in liquid personal care products, often paired with methylchlorosisothiazolinone. It may cause allergic reactions, lung toxicity, neurotoxicity, and skin irritation. Many countries limit its use, and it is banned in the UK and Canada.
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • QUATs (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds) – odorless antimicrobial disinfectants, sanitizers, and preservatives designed to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and fungi. They're commonly used in cleaners, cosmetics, and lotions. They contribute to indoor air pollution through VOCs (volatile organic compounds), increasing the risk of developing asthma and cancer. The biggest issue is quats are completely overkill for household cleaning needs. While they are a powerhouse in killing pathogens, there has not been a single study showing they reduce illness with use… however, they are known for creating superbugs that become resistant to both Quats and other antibiotics. They do stick to whatever you clean, leaving a film, causing you to be re-exposed every time you touch that surface, leading to additional exposures you may not notice – exposures that takes months of daily cleaning to end. This is especially problematic if you're using that same surface to prepare food. Quats can cause as much harm to your respiratory system as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day! It is also a known skin irritant and disrupts your skin's microbiome. They're also known to damage fertility, reproductive, and developmental wellbeing, and have been linked to cancer and neural tube defects.

Bellame provides a variety of hair care, skincare, and wellness supplements.

Ingredients that should be avoided include:

  • Alumina (inorganic compound aluminum oxide) – may cause allergies and respiratory distress. Also may cause neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Behentrimonium Chloride – a conditioning emulsifier used in personal care and hair care products. It is a QUAT (quaternary ammonium compound) derived from canola oil. It is a neurotoxic, endocrine disrupting, allergen that may also cause respiratory problems. May also be an environmental toxin.
  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Cyclohexasiloxane – a silicon-based polymer used in cosmetics and personal care products to help enhance hydration and improve texture. This bioaccumulative chemical is suspected to be an environmental toxin and be toxic to non-reproductive organs.
    Contamination concern: CYCLOTETRASILOXANE (endocrine disruptor, may be toxic to the liver, and allows other chemicals its mixed with to more easily absorb into your body, plus it bioaccumulates in your body, causing additional issues, and may be an environmental toxin)
  • Cyclomethicone – a silicone-baed ingredient used in skincare and cosmeticsused to provide a silky texture. It may bioaccumulate in humans and wildlife. May be toxic to the liver. Suspected environmental toxin. May disrupt the endocrine system and reproductive systems (including developmental toxicity for unborn babies). Cyclomethicone may enhance the skin penetration of other ingredients, and is banned in Europe.
  • Cyclopentasiloxane – is a silicon-based cyclic compound used to help lower product production costs that may cause environmental toxicity, neurotoxicity , cancer, and disrupt your endocrine system (hormones). This ingredient is known to bioaccumulate in humans and in wildlife (through wastewater contamination). It also has high contamination concerns for Cyclotetrasiloxane (endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental toxicity, possible liver toxicity, and increases the penetration of the product into your body while causing additional bioaccumulation).
  • FD&C and D&C “lake” artificial colorings – petroleum-based colorants used to make cosmetics and food items more colorful and appealing. Artificial colorings (especially the “lake” colorants) are known allergens, carcinogens, neurotoxins, and can trigger hypersensitivity and hyperactivity, along with other behavioral issues. They increase inflammation, and can cause adrenal and kidney problems. The particular colorings Bellame uses may have Aniline and Cadmium contaminations.
  • Disodium EDTA Copper – a synthetic chelating agent used to bind metal ions (copper) to create a stable and non-reactive compound. It is not approved by the FDA for products used around the eyes. Some animal studies show it may be toxic to the reproductive system, and is boaccumulative in wildlife.
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) – a synthetic polymer resin used as a film-former and viscosity-increasing agent in skincare and cosmetics. It is often contaminated with methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, and benzene (carcinogen). It is toxic to the immune system and respiratory system, also causing allergies.
  • Undisclosed Flavors – Flavors – any flavors that are not derived from natural sources, completely synthesized in laboratories using various chemical compounds and mixtures of chemical compounds. Ultimately, you don't know what is in this list, and because of that, you cannot tell what the potential health risks or benefits could be.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Ingredients in supplements you may want to be aware of:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.
  • some products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar/fructose may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders

Bravenly Global is a wellness company that has mostly quality ingredients, but there are a few that are concerning.

Skincare ingredients from Bravenly Global products that you may want to know about:

  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Propylene Glycol – while not usually considered harmful, it can be if you have underlying health issues (especially kidney, metabolic, or liver disease). It is a synthetic liquid used to prevent caking, improve texture, skin or hair conditioner, antifreeze, and as a solvent. May cause allergies and respiratory issues (in about 4% of the population), central nervous system depression, acidosis, immune system toxicity, kidney damage, and liver disease. It may also break down into carcinogenic compounds if heated during processing.

Supplement ingredients from Bravenly Global that you may want to know about:

  • Glucose Syrup – a generic term for a liquid sweetener derrived from a starchy plant, (like cornstarch, potatoes, wheat, etc) by breaking down the plant matter through hydrolysis. Examples of a glucose syrup include corn syrup and high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) – which may alter the gut microbiome and contribute to various metabolic disorders, increasing your risk for developing Type 2 Diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer.
  • Juice Concentrate – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice concentrate often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring (including additional sugar). It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Natural Color – the lack of transparency is misleading. While natural is better than artificial, companies are still allowed to use artificial preservatives and other additives. “Natural color” can still cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity, cognitive concerns, cancers, and cell mutations (especially in children). Some additives are allowed in the US but not overseas (specifically E16Of).
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Vegetable Oil – rich in omega-6, may cause type 2 diabetes, anxiety, depression, obesity, chronic inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), ulcerative colitis, and cognitive distress. May also contribute to symptoms with autism and Alzheimer's.

Many Bravenly Global supplements contain an alarming amount of sugar. It is currently in my list of least healthy because of the sugar content and potential for unlisted high fructose corn syrup.

CommonSenseWW is a wellness brand who strives to all natural ingredients for your wellness goals. 

Unfortunately, not all of CommonSense’s products contained an image or list of their ingredients, or a link to a product information page (including ALL their skincare options). 

Of the products I was able to fully preview, you’ll want to know about the following ingredients:

  • Sodium Benzoate with Citric Acid – When sodium benzoate and citric acid are combined, there is a risk of them reacting to form benzene, a known carcinogen.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

CTFO is a Christian company that provides tools to empower its associates in business, health, and serving others, demonstrating the Good News with quality, integrity, and generosity.

Skincare and hair care ingredients to be aware of:

  • Behentrimonium Chloride -a conditioning emulsifier used in personal care and hair care products. It is a QUAT (quaternary ammonium compound) derived from canola oil. It is a neurotoxic, endocrine disrupting, allergen that may also cause respiratory problems. May also be an environmental toxin.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant (QUAT) that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. It has high impurity contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Methylisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative in liquid personal care products, often paired with methylchlorosisothiazolinone. It may cause allergic reactions, lung toxicity, neurotoxicity, and skin irritation. Many countries limit its use, and it is banned in the UK and Canada.
  • PEG-40 Castor Oil – a compound formed by combining hydrogenated castor oil with polyethelene glycol (PEG), used as an emulsifier, emollient, surfactant, and solubilizer in cosmetic and personal care products. It is a human skin toxicant and allergen.
    Contamination concerns: ethylene oxide (cancerous, developmental harm, reproductive harm) and 1,4-Dioxane (carcerous, toxic to liver and kidneys, and causes reproductive harm)
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Polysorbate – a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier used in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. They're made through a chemical reaction of polyoxyethylene and fatty acids. They may contain manufacturing contamination with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (known carcinogens). They may also cause skin irritations, allergies, and risk fetal development and reproductive harm.
  • Sodium Benzoate with Citric Acid – When sodium benzoate and citric acid are combined, there is a risk of them reacting to form benzene, a known carcinogen.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Supplement ingredients include:

  • Fruit/Vegetable Juice (Natural Flavors) – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juices are commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals). They may also contain added sugars and artificial flavorings, which can cause health issues.
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Some products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders

While the label states “organically grown,” the products by CTFO are not certified organic and are not listed as being non-gmo, and therefor may contain bioengineered ingredients. 

Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold do contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

doTERRA is an essential oil MLM who also sells skincare, hair care, home cleaning solutions, and dietary supplements.

DoTerra product ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known carcinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, a neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
    Betaine may interact with medications for liver disease, heart disease, or kidney stones, and should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity.
    Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Perfluorodecalin (PFD) – a type of PFAS (a “forever chemical”) that may trigger an immune response, causing inflammation and other adverse reactions. May also change blood chemistry to decrease platelet levels. Long-term exposure has not been tested, but it is mentioned to not be used outside of ophthalmological procedures. It is labeled by the EWG to have a moderate risk for developing cancer, it does persistently bioaccumulate in humans and wildlife, is a known human reproductive and development toxin, and may be a liver, thyroid, and cardiovascular toxicant.
  • Phenoxyethanol – is a preservative produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
    Products include: On Guard Foaming Hand Soap,
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer.
    *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!
  • Undisclosed natural fragrances – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These fragrances can also involve natural or synthetic solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

I really wanted to like doTERRA (mainly to support my cousin who sells it) and love the idea of what they offer, but the PFAS really turned me away.

I did try them back before understanding what all the ingredients are, and wrote about it in case you want to read my personal doTERRA review. Since then, I heard they've cleaned up their ingredients, but looking into them again now, and comparing old notes, they still have a ways to go before I'd consider them clean and “non-toxic.”

Read My doTERRA Review

Essante Organics provides a variety of personal care, cosmetic, hair care, wellness products, and home cleaning solutions. They are confirmed to be non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free, and vegan.

While most of their ingredients are organic, there are a few items that are concerning.

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Fructose – while fructose can come from natural sources, it can also encompass artificial sweeteners, such as Hydroxymethylfurfural or high fructose corn syrup. Ingesting too much may cause obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
  • Organic Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve and of 100+ solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives. Organic Natural Flavors only need to contain 95% organically grown ingredients.

Something to consider with Essante Organics is the lack of any colorant ingredients on their labels, especially on products (like the lip glosses) that obviously contain color. This fact makes me question the transparency and truthfulness of their labels.

Farmasi is an international direct sales company that sells cosmetics, skincare, and wellness supplements. The company and reps openly brag about its clean and safe beauty standards and a highly competitive compensation plan.

Personal care and makeup ingredients in Farmasi products you'll want to be aware of:

  • Behentrimonium Chloride – a conditioning emulsifier used in personal care and hair care products. It is a QUAT (quaternary ammonium compound) derived from canola oil. It is a neurotoxic, endocrine disrupting, allergen that may also cause respiratory problems. May also be an environmental toxin.
  • Benzyl benzoate – associated with allergies, contact dermatitis, and immunotoxicity. It may also convert into benzene (especially if any vitamin C or sugar is in any other ingredients), a known carcinogen. Other potential side effects include: causing inflammation, aggravating ADHD, and oxidative stress. *** It is toxic to cats, and is not recommended for use around children, pregnant women, anyone with pre-existing liver, kidney, thymus, or prostate issues, and anyone with a compromised immune system. Benzyl benzoate can bioaccumulate, increasing in toxicity over time.
  • Benzyl Salicylate – an ester of benzyl alcohol and salicylic acid used to improve the scent of cosmetics and skin care products by providing a light floral fragrance. It is associated with being an endocrine (hormone) disruptor, immune system toxicant, allergen, and environmental toxin.
  • Benzisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative in cosmetics and household products designed to inhibit the growth of microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungus, and yeast. It is known to cause skin, lung, and eye irritation, along with being an allergen that causes sensitization issues (meaning the more you use it, the more you risk developing reactions. There is some limited evidence that it could be toxic to the immune system, wildlife, and potentially non-reproductive organs. Using this product is in violation of government restrictions… in many areas it is banned for being unsafe for use in cosmetics.
  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
    Betaine may interact with medications for liver disease, heart disease, or kidney stones, and should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
  • BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) – a preservative known for disrupting the endocrine system (hormones), carcinogen, neurotoxin, may disrupt and suppress the immune system, respiratory system, and cause irritation and allergic reactions to the skin. May also be toxic to several organs and systems within your body (liver, thyroid, kidney, lung, circulatory system, reproductive system).
  • Cocamide DEA – a foaming and emulsifying agent in personal care products derived from a chemically modified form of coconut oil. It is known as a 2B carcinogen, especially worrisome when combined with other chemicals. Contamination concern: Nitrosamines (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system). It is also known to be an immune system and skin toxicant and allergen.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Isobutane – a hydrocarbon gas used as a propellant in aerosolized products. Contamination concern: BUTADIENE (known carcinogen and possible cell mutagen, reproductive system toxicant, and may cause harm to the respiratory system). Isobutane is also an allergen that may harm your immune system and other organs.
  • FD&C and D&C “lake” artificial colorings – petroleum-based colorants used to make cosmetics and food items more colorful and appealing. Artificial colorings (especially the “lake” colorants) are known allergens, carcinogens, neurotoxins, and can trigger hypersensitivity and hyperactivity, along with other behavioral issues. They increase inflammation, and can cause adrenal and kidney problems.
  • Methylchloroisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, sensitization (skin issues after repeated use), respiratory problems, neurotoxicity, and organ toxicity. The European Commission banned its use and Canada Health has restricted its use, but this chemical is still allowed for use in the US.
  • Methylisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative in liquid personal care products, often paired with methylchlorosisothiazolinone. It may cause allergic reactions, lung toxicity, neurotoxicity, and skin irritation. Many countries limit its use, and it is banned in the UK and Canada.
  • Mineral Oil – a petroleum-based, colorless, odorless, tasteless liquid used in cosmetics, hair care products, skincare products, and pharmaceuticals. It may cause skin irritation, gastrointestinal problems, and allergic reactions. It may bioaccumulate, damage your immune and respiratory systems, and lead to organ toxicity.
  • Oxybenzone – a synthetic compound often used in sunscreens to absorb UV radiation. Unfortunately, it mimics estrogen in your body, which may disrupt your endocrine system. It may also cause skin irritation and is toxic to marine life, which is why many places around the world are banning its use (it will come off in the water and disrupt coral reefs and other aquatic life). It may also cause your body to produce excess reactive oxygen that can interfere with cell signaling, causing cell mutations or death, and may cause cardiovascular disease. It also serves as a penetration enhancer, causing the chemicals it's mixed with to better absorb into your body through your skin. Oxybenzone may serve as an immune system toxin, and cause photoallergic effects.
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Petrolatum (petroleum jelly) – a mixture of petroleum-based hydrocarbons used in personal care products. Knowing your source here is essential because if it isn't refined properly (which happens), you're at risk for non-reproductive organ toxicity.
    Contamination concern: Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), a bioaccumulation chemical which may cause cancer, organ, and wildlife toxicity.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) – a synthetic polymer resin used as a film-former and viscosity-increasing agent in skincare and cosmetics. It is often contaminated with methacrylic acid, acrylic acid, and benzene (carcinogen). It is toxic to the immune system and respiratory system, also causing allergies.
  • QUATs (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds) – odorless antimicrobial disinfectants, sanitizers, and preservatives designed to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and fungi. They're commonly used in cleaners, cosmetics, and lotions. They contribute to indoor air pollution through VOCs (volatile organic compounds), increasing the risk of developing asthma and cancer. The biggest issue is quats are completely overkill for household cleaning needs. While they are a powerhouse in killing pathogens, there has not been a single study showing they reduce illness with use… however, they are known for creating superbugs that become resistant to both Quats and other antibiotics. They do stick to whatever you clean, leaving a film, causing you to be re-exposed every time you touch that surface, leading to additional exposures you may not notice – exposures that takes months of daily cleaning to end. This is especially problematic if you're using that same surface to prepare food. Quats can cause as much harm to your respiratory system as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day! It is also a known skin irritant and disrupts your skin's microbiome. They're also known to damage fertility, reproductive, and developmental wellbeing, and have been linked to cancer and neural tube defects.
  • Sulfates – a type of natural or synthetic surfactant or detergent in personal care products, cleaners, and food derived from sulfuric acid and alkali metals (like sodium or ammonium), used to bind fat, oil, grease, and dirt. They can cause eye, skin, and lung irritation, aggravate allergies, cause allergic reactions, trigger migraines, disrupt your vitamin B1 intake, digestion upset, and disrupt gut microbiome.
  • Talc – a mineral of magnesium, silicon, oxygen, and hydrogen, used in many cosmetic products to absorb moisture. Some talc may be contaminated with asbestos, but the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies talc as “probably carcinogenic” based on evidence that it causes ovarian cancer. It may also cause skin and respiratory system irritation.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Supplements contain:

  • Caramel Color – caramel color used to be made with real caramel, but in recent years its become synthetically created. it may cause high bloodpressure, allergies, ADHD, neurotoxicity, and immune system toxicity.
    Contamination concern: 4-methylimidazole (4-Mel), which may cause cancer. 2-MEI and 4-MEI (cancerous byproducts)
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!
  • Sucralose (Splenda) – a synthetic chlorinated sugar approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar. May cause metabolic disorders, including Type 2 Diabetes, negatively impact your gut microbiome, and epigenetic changes (affecting gene expression and cellular behavior). Unfortunately, there are no long-term studies.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

4Life was created by the founders to provide a healthier life for their families. Its ambassadors rave about the nontoxic, natural options the company sells, and appreciate same-day commissions in the compensation plan.

Personal care and makeup ingredients in 4Life products you'll want to be aware of:

  • Algae/Seaweed/Kelp (Unspecified Species) – Contamination concerns: iodine, arsenic, and lead
  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
    Betaine may interact with medications for liver disease, heart disease, or kidney stones, and should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Cyclohexasiloxane – a silicon-based polymer used in cosmetics and personal care products to help enhance hydration and improve texture. This bioaccumulative chemical is suspected to be an environmental toxin and be toxic to non-reproductive organs.
    Contamination concern: CYCLOTETRASILOXANE (endocrine disruptor, may be toxic to the liver, and allows other chemicals its mixed with to more easily absorb into your body, plus it bioaccumulates in your body, causing additional issues, and may be an environmental toxin)
  • Cyclopentasiloxane – is a silicon-based cyclic compound used to help lower product production costs that may cause environmental toxicity, neurotoxicity , cancer, and disrupt your endocrine system (hormones). This ingredient is known to bioaccumulate in humans and in wildlife (through wastewater contamination). It also has high contamination concerns for Cyclotetrasiloxane (endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental toxicity, possible liver toxicity, and increases the penetration of the product into your body while causing additional bioaccumulation).
  • Dimethicone – a silicon-based polymer used as a lubricant and conditioning agent. It also has high contamination concerns for Cyclotetrasiloxane (endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental toxicity, possible liver toxicity, and increases the penetration of the product into your body while causing additional bioaccumulation) and Cyclopentasiloxane (neurotoxin, endocrine disruptor, organ toxicity, cancers, and additional contamination concerns for cyclotetrasiloxane – also is persistent with bioaccumulation in humans and wildlife).
  • Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) – a synthetic solvent in cosmetics and skincare. It may potentially harm the kidneys, immune system, endocrine system (hormones), and circulatory system
    Contamination concerns: ethylene oxide (cancerous, developmental harm, reproductive harm) and 1,4-Dioxane (carcerous, toxic to liver and kidneys, and causes reproductive harm)
  • Laminaria Digitata – Contamination concerns: iodine, arsenic, and lead
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!
  • Triethanolamine (TEA) – a synthetic viscous liquid used as a surficatn, pH adjuster, and fragrance ingredient. It lacks definitive studies as to whether it is safe, but current research suggests potential health risks, including cancer, skin and eye irritation, triggering allergies, and respiratory and immune system damage. It also has a high risk of being contaminated with nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Supplements contain:

  • Acesulfame K – a synthetic sweetener, approximately 200 times sweeter than sugar. Potential health risks include: weight gain, obesity, insulin resistance, and potential like to cancer. It also alters your gut microbiome that may lead to chronic inflammation an metabolic problems
  • Artificial Flavors – any flavors that are not derived from natural sources, completely synthesized in laboratories using various chemical compounds and mixtures of chemical compounds. Ultimately, you don't know what is in this list, and because of that, you cannot tell what the potential health risks or benefits could be.
  • Rapeseed Oil (canola oil) – almost all canola oils are genetically modified, increasing exposure risks to herbacides. Its highly processed, including going through caustic refining, bleaching, deodorization – all of which strips natural nutrients and introduces toxic chemical residues like hexane and glyphosate. It is highly inflammatory, and has been linked to cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and Alzheimer's disease. Its also highly unstable, oxidizing easily, which releases free radicals that cause cell damage and contribute to cancer growth. It can also displace fat in your diet, leading to deficiencies in fat-soluble vitamins and associated health problems. Many canola oils also contain unlabeled synthetic antioxidents, including TBHQ, BHA, and BHT, which cause liver tumors.
  • Sucralose (Splenda) – a synthetic chlorinated sugar approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar. May cause metabolic disorders, including Type 2 Diabetes, negatively impact your gut microbiome, and epigenetic changes (affecting gene expression and cellular behavior). Unfortunately, there are no long-term studies.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Additional copyright or trademarked ingredients used in both topical products and supplements that aren't fully transparent as to what specifically is in them. You can view links to each patent on the 4Life website.

  • OvoFactor®
  • Nanofactor®
  • UltraFactor™

Green Compass offers a variety of wellness supplements, skincare, and hemp/CBD products.

Skincare ingredients to be aware of include:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Chlorphenesin – a synthetic preservative in skincare that may be an allergen and may be toxic to the immune system. It may bioaccumulate in humans. Chlorphenesin is restricted for use in Japan.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Propylene Glycol – while not usually considered harmful, it can be if you have underlying health issues (especially kidney, metabolic, or liver disease). It is a synthetic liquid used to prevent caking, improve texture, skin or hair conditioner, antifreeze, and as a solvent. May cause allergies and respiratory issues (in about 4% of the population), central nervous system depression, acidosis, immune system toxicity, kidney damage, and liver disease. It may also break down into carcinogenic compounds if heated during processing.
  • Sodium Benzoate with Citric Acid – When sodium benzoate and citric acid are combined, there is a risk of them reacting to form benzene, a known carcinogen.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Green Compass ingredients to be aware of include:

  • Juice Concentrates – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice concentrates often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals). If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Drink products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders

Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold do contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

Herbalife provides supplements to help with daily nutrition, wellness, and fitness, along with providing skincare and body care products.

Herbalife product ingredients you need to know about:

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Triethanolamine (TEA) – a synthetic viscous liquid used as a surficatn, pH adjuster, and fragrance ingredient. It lacks definitive studies as to whether it is safe, but current research suggests potential health risks, including cancer, skin and eye irritation, triggering allergies, and respiratory and immune system damage. It also has a high risk of being contaminated with nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Food products contain:

  • Artificial Flavors – any flavors that are not derived from natural sources, completely synthesized in laboratories using various chemical compounds and mixtures of chemical compounds. Ultimately, you don't know what is in this list, and because of that, you cannot tell what the potential health risks or benefits could be.
  • Carrageenan – a natural polymer extracted from red seaweeds and used as a food additive for gelling, thickening, and emulsifying. It may cause digestive issues, intestinal inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerations, and impair gut health. it may also disrupt your immune system, causing inflammation throughout your body.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.
  • have moderate to high sugar content

Isagenix is an MLM company that sells weight loss, nutrition, and beauty supplements, and skincare. They strategically acquired Zija (which the brand name is now being used for a different company)

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Cyclohexasiloxane – a silicon-based polymer used in cosmetics and personal care products to help enhance hydration and improve texture. This bioaccumulative chemical is suspected to be an environmental toxin and be toxic to non-reproductive organs.
    Contamination concern: CYCLOTETRASILOXANE (endocrine disruptor, may be toxic to the liver, and allows other chemicals its mixed with to more easily absorb into your body, plus it bioaccumulates in your body, causing additional issues, and may be an environmental toxin)
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Propylene Glycol – while not usually considered harmful, it can be if you have underlying health issues (especially kidney, metabolic, or liver disease). It is a synthetic liquid used to prevent caking, improve texture, skin or hair conditioner, antifreeze, and as a solvent. May cause allergies and respiratory issues (in about 4% of the population), central nervous system depression, acidosis, immune system toxicity, kidney damage, and liver disease. It may also break down into carcinogenic compounds if heated during processing.

Food products contain

  • Carrageenan – a natural polymer extracted from red seaweeds and used as a food additive for gelling, thickening, and emulsifying. It may cause digestive issues, intestinal inflammation, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcerations, and impair gut health. it may also disrupt your immune system, causing inflammation throughout your body.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • some products are high in sugar content

Mamavation, in a 3rd-party test that the company didn't fund, found Isagenix Organic Blend Coffee to be contaminated with PFAS.

Isagenix is gluten-free, and uses some organic ingredients (not in all products).

It Works is a beauty and nutrition company that gained popularity for specializing in weight loss.

It Works! ingredients that you should be aware of:

  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Propylene Glycol – while not usually considered harmful, it can be if you have underlying health issues (especially kidney, metabolic, or liver disease). It is a synthetic liquid used to prevent caking, improve texture, skin or hair conditioner, antifreeze, and as a solvent. May cause allergies and respiratory issues (in about 4% of the population), central nervous system depression, acidosis, immune system toxicity, kidney damage, and liver disease. It may also break down into carcinogenic compounds if heated during processing.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) – a preservative known for disrupting the endocrine system (hormones), carcinogen, neurotoxin, may disrupt and suppress the immune system, respiratory system, and cause irritation and allergic reactions to the skin. May also be toxic to several organs and systems within your body (liver, thyroid, kidney, lung, circulatory system, reproductive system).
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursors to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!

Food products contain natural flavors

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Jordan Essentials is natural-minded company that sells skincare, hair care, cosmetics, essential oils, and home cleaning solutions.

Jordan Essentials contains the following concerning ingredients:

  • Behentrimonium Chloride – a conditioning emulsifier used in personal care and hair care products. It is a QUAT (quaternary ammonium compound) derived from canola oil. It is a neurotoxic, endocrine disrupting, allergen that may also cause respiratory problems. May also be an environmental toxin.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Jump To Health is a nutrition and weight loss supplement company. 

  • Triethanolamine (TEA) – a synthetic viscous liquid used as a surficat, pH adjuster, and fragrance ingredient. It lacks definitive studies as to whether it is safe, but current research suggests potential health risks, including cancer, skin and eye irritation, triggering allergies, and respiratory and immune system damage. It also has a high risk of being contaminated with nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.
  • Tosylamide/Fromaldehyde Resin – a synthetic polymer derrived from tolunesulfonamide and fromaldehyde to create a soft resin used often in nail products. It is a known human toxicant and allergen that is suspected to be an environmental toxin. 
    Contamination concerns: Formaldehyde – a toxin that harms the immune system, respiratory system, and skin. Also is a known carcinogen. This is banned in Europe. 

Some products contain CBD. Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold do contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

Lemongrass Spa is a skincare and cosmetic company that boasts about being natural and homemade.

According to the Lemongrass Spa website, the products offered contain the following concerning ingredients:

  • Algae/Seaweed/Kelp (Unspecified Species) – Contamination concerns: iodine, arsenic, and lead
  • Behentrimonium Methosulfate – a quaternary ammonium salt (Quat) used in hair and skin care products as an emulsifier, surficant, and conditioner. It may be toxic to the neurologic system, endocrine (hormone) system, immune system, reproductive system, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It may also be harmful to the respiratory system and worsen allergies.
  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Laminaria Digitata – Contamination concerns: iodine, arsenic, and lead
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Tin Oxide – a metal oxide used as an abrasive. It is known to bioaccumulate, causing non-reproductive organ system toxicity, and irritation to your skin. There is also limited evidence of it being toxic to wildlife, the environment, and your immune system. Nano0scale ingredients may absorb into your skin.

I also have a Lemongrass Spa review that documents my personal experience if you'd like to read it.

Shop Lemongrass Spa with my Favorite Rep

Le-Vel is a wellness company that sells skincare and supplements to promote weight management, joint function, fitness, gut health, and antioxidents. They also provide keto-friendly meal solutions.

Ingredients in Le-Vel Thrive products you'll want to be aware of include:

  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Salicylic acid (not safe while pregnant or if sensitive),
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Food products contain caramel color, undisclosed natural flavors, undisclosed natural colors, soy, and sucralose (artificial sweetener).

LifeVantage is an anti-aging company that focuses on selling supplements, hair care, and skincare.

LifeVantage ingredients you'll want to be aware of:

  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Polysorbate – a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier used in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. They're made through a chemical reaction of polyoxyethylene and fatty acids. They may contain manufacturing contamination with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (known carcinogens). They may also cause skin irritations, allergies, and risk fetal development and reproductive harm.
  • QUATs (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds) – odorless antimicrobial disinfectants, sanitizers, and preservatives designed to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and fungi. They're commonly used in cleaners, cosmetics, and lotions. They contribute to indoor air pollution through VOCs (volatile organic compounds), increasing the risk of developing asthma and cancer. The biggest issue is quats are completely overkill for household cleaning needs. While they are a powerhouse in killing pathogens, there has not been a single study showing they reduce illness with use… however, they are known for creating superbugs that become resistant to both Quats and other antibiotics. They do stick to whatever you clean, leaving a film, causing you to be re-exposed every time you touch that surface, leading to additional exposures you may not notice – exposures that takes months of daily cleaning to end. This is especially problematic if you're using that same surface to prepare food. Quats can cause as much harm to your respiratory system as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day! It is also a known skin irritant and disrupts your skin's microbiome. They're also known to damage fertility, reproductive, and developmental wellbeing, and have been linked to cancer and neural tube defects.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Food products contain natural flavors, and mono and diglycerides

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

LiveGood provides a variety of wellness supplements and skincare items. (You can read my full LiveGood review here)

Ingredients in LiveGood skincare products you should be aware of:

  • Methylparaben – a preservative, antibacterial, and anti-fungal ingredient in personal care products derived from p-hydroxybenzoic acid and isopropyl alcohol. It is a known immune and endocrine (hormone) system toxicant and allergen. It directly interferes with your cells’ gene expression. 
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!
  • Sodium Metabisulfite – an inorganic salt used as a preservative in a variety of skincare, cosmetics, and hair care products. It is known to be harmful to the environment and wildlife. There is strong evidence Sodium Metabisulfite may be harmful to the human immune system, and cause or worsen allergies.

Ingredients in LiveGood supplements you should know about:

  • Organic Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. The term “organic” in a blend of ingredients only needs to be 95% organic and does not explicitly prohibit the use of chemical additives. These flavors can also involve “nature-identical flavorings” (synthetic), solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives. Organic flavor extracts may also go through chemical processing or enzymatic treatments. Health concerns linked to using organic natural flavors include: obesity, metabolic disorders (liver damage), and neurotoxic effects. 
  • Some products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar/fructose may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders
  • Soy may mimic estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It may interfere with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues. While the jury is still out on whether or not it causes harmful effects (there is a multitude of conflicting scientific research arguing benefits and risks), it is a known allergen to many individuals. If you're comfortable with it, great… if you're not comfortable using it, then you need to be aware in order to have full informed consent before purchasing.

Some products do contain CBD. Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold do contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

Read my Full LiveGood Review

Mannatech is a wellness company that offers supplements, skincare, and weight loss products.

Skincare ingredients to be aware of:

  • Alumina (inorganic compound aluminum oxide) – may cause allergies and respiratory distress. Also may cause neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Ammonium Hydroxide – a solution of ammonia gas dissolved in water used to absorb moisture. It is known to be a wildlife and environmental toxin. It is persistent. And bioaccumulative with toxicity concerns in humans, specifically with regards to the respiratory system. May cause skin reactions.
    Contamination concerns: ammonia gas
  • Chlorphenesin – a synthetic preservative and antimicrobial agent used in skincare. Concerns include: skin allergen and toxicant, toxic to the immune system (even in low doses), persistence and bioaccumulation, non-reproductive organ system toxicity, and irritation to the skin, eyes, and lungs. It is prohibited for use in certain cosmetics in Japan.
  • Cyclohexasiloxane – a silicon-based polymer used in cosmetics and personal care products to help enhance hydration and improve texture. This bioaccumulative chemical is suspected to be an environmental toxin and be toxic to non-reproductive organs.
    Contamination concern: CYCLOTETRASILOXANE (endocrine disruptor, may be toxic to the liver, and allows other chemicals its mixed with to more easily absorb into your body, plus it bioaccumulates in your body, causing additional issues, and may be an environmental toxin)
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) – a synthetic solvent in cosmetics and skincare. It may potentially harm the kidneys, immune system, endocrine system (hormones), and circulatory system
    Contamination concerns: ethylene oxide (cancerous, developmental harm, reproductive harm) and 1,4-Dioxane (carcerous, toxic to liver and kidneys, and causes reproductive harm)
  • Ethylene Glycol – a colorless, odorless, sweet-tasting liquid used as antifreeze and in pharmaceuticals. It is toxic and can be harmful when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. When in your body, it metabolizes into toxic compounds (glycolic acid and oxalic acid), which can cause kidney damage, acute kidney failure, seizures, respiratory issues, cardiovascular issues, and gastrointestinal issues.
  • Ethyl Hexanediol – a synthetic viscous alcohol used as a solvent and fragrance in personal care and hair care products. It may cause reproductive organ system toxicity and may be harmful to the skin, eyes, and lungs. It is known to being a skin allergen and toxicant.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!

Supplement ingredients to be aware of:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Fructose – while fructose can come from natural sources, it can also encompass artificial sweeteners, such as Hydroxymethylfurfural or high fructose corn syrup. Ingesting too much may cause obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Mary Kay is a long-lasting high-performing cosmetic and skincare company who markets their products as being healthy.

The Mary Kay website only discloses key ingredients. No full ingredient lists were available on the website, so while they claim to provide healthy makeup, I cannot analyze their products enough to justify purchasing them to try myself.

Mamavation found Mary Kay to be contaminated with PFAS in a 3rd party test.

Melaleuca is a one-stop-shop for nutrition, skincare, cosmetics, hair care, household cleaners, etc. They pride themselves in being relatively similar to Costco or Walmart, but claim to be healthier, saying its products are “natural” and “nontoxic.”

I know… “Melaleuca is not an MLM” – I hear that a lot. But the compensation plan specifically says you can be paid 2 ways: by those who you enroll and by those in your marketing organization. Your marketing organization consists of who you enroll and who they enroll, and you're paid on 7 “generations.” By definition, this is a multilevel compensation plan. And to recruit anyone into your marketing organization, you must partake in marketing. Thus, Melaleuca is, in fact, an MLM. Now that we have that cleared up, let's dive into the ingredients.

** Not all of Melaleuca's products display ingredient lists on their website

Disclosed ingredients included:

  • Aluminum (Ci 77000) – a metallic substance used as a colorant and antiperspirant. It is a known respiratory, immune, and nervous system toxin that can be absorbed into your skin. May also cause reproductive and developmental harm.
  • Benzisothiazolinone – a preservative and antifungal used in household items as a replacement to parabens. Its a known to be toxic to the immune and reproductive systems and wildlife. May cause sensitization and skin allergies when used repeatedly over time.
  • Benzyl benzoate – associated with allergies, contact dermatitis, and immunotoxicity. It may also convert into benzene (especially if any vitamin C or sugar is in any other ingredients), a known carcinogen. Other potential side effects include: causing inflammation, aggravating ADHD, and oxidative stress. *** It is toxic to cats, and is not recommended for use around children, pregnant women, anyone with pre-existing liver, kidney, thymus, or prostate issues, and anyone with a compromised immune system. Benzyl benzoate can bioaccumulate, increasing in toxicity over time.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproductive harm.
  • Distearyldimonium Chloride – is a cationic surfactant (QUAT) used in personal care, skincare, and hair care products. It is known to be harmful to your nervous, endocrine, and reproductive systems, along with wildlife.
  • Isobutane – a hydrocarbon gas used as a propellant in aerosolized products. Contamination concern: BUTADIENE (known carcinogen and possible cell mutagen, reproductive system toxicant, and may cause harm to the respiratory system). Isobutane is also an allergen that may harm your immune system and other organs.
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Petroleum – a skin lubricant and protectant. Petroleum products may cause 1,4 dioxane contamination. It is known for causing liver toxicity, kidney toxicity, neurological toxicity, reproductive toxicity, and respiratory toxicity, plus also serves as a leading groundwater contaminant.
  • Methylchloroisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, sensitization (skin issues after repeated use), respiratory problems, neurotoxicity, and organ toxicity. The European Commission banned its use and Canada Health has restricted its use, but this chemical is still allowed for use in the US.
  • Methylisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative in liquid personal care products, often paired with methylchlorosisothiazolinone. It may cause allergic reactions, lung toxicity, neurotoxicity, and skin irritation. Many countries limit its use, and it is banned in the UK and Canada.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Sulfates – a type of natural or synthetic surfactant or detergent in personal care products, cleaners, and food derived from sulfuric acid and alkali metals (like sodium or ammonium), used to bind fat, oil, grease, and dirt. They can cause eye, skin, and lung irritation, aggravate allergies, cause allergic reactions, trigger migraines, disrupt your vitamin B1 intake, digestion upset, and disrupt gut microbiome.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Food items that had ingredients listed showed to be high in sugar and contain artificial sweeteners, and soy.

  • Artificial Flavors – any flavors that are not derived from natural sources, completely synthesized in laboratories using various chemical compounds and mixtures of chemical compounds. Ultimately, you don't know what is in this list, and because of that, you cannot tell what the potential health risks or benefits could be.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.
  • Sucralose (Splenda) – a synthetic chlorinated sugar approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar. May cause metabolic disorders, including Type 2 Diabetes, negatively impact your gut microbiome, and epigenetic changes (affecting gene expression and cellular behavior). Unfortunately, there are no long-term studies.

I do have a Melaleuca review, based on my own personal experiences, if you'd like to read it.

Monat is a premium hair care, skincare, and wellness company that prides itself in merging nature with science.

Monat is another company I really wanted to love and purchase from to support a friend. Seriously… why does finding a quality, natural shampoo that works have to be so hard?

Monat ingredients that concerns me include:

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum (phthalate-free) – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

My Epic Company has a variety of products and services designed to help their customers lead a healthier life. They sell a variety of products and services to include: coffee, skincare, wellness supplements, CBD-infused products, TV streaming services, telehealth services, ID protection, residential and commercial energy programs, and credit monitoring.

Skincare ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Supplement ingredients to be aware of:

  • Natural Color – the lack of transparency is misleading. While natural is better than artificial, companies are still allowed to use artificial preservatives and other additives. “Natural color” can still cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity, cognitive concerns, cancers, and cell mutations (especially in children). Some additives are allowed in the US but not overseas (specifically E16Of).
  • Undisclosed Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for numerous questionable or harmful ingredients is concerning. Some products mention “flavor” and some mention “natural flavors.” The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold do contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

Neora is a beauty and wellness company that sells a variety of skincare, wellness supplements, and. The pride themselves on the website to use “all of the good stuff… none of the bad,” and are gluten-free, vegan, cruelty-free, dermatologist tested, and suitable for all skin types.

According to the Neora website, its skincare contains:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Behentrimonium Chloride (aka Steartrimonium Chloride) – a quaternary ammonium salt (QUAT) that acts as a cationic emulsifier, preservative, and conditioning ingredient derived from canola oil. It is a known human allergen and is stoxic to the respiratory, endocrine, and reproductive systems. It may also be an environmental toxin and potentially a neurotoxin. Some products showed to have both Behentrimonium Chloride and Steartrimonium Chloride on the same ingredient list, even though they are synonymous.
  • Behentrimonium Methosulfate – a quaternary ammonium salt (QUAT) that acts as an emulsifier, preservative, and conditioning ingredient. It is a known human allergen and is stoxic to the respiratory, endocrine (hormones), and reproductive systems. It may also be an environmental toxin and potentially a neurotoxin. Some products showed to have both Behentrimonium Chloride and Steartrimonium Chloride on the same ingredient list, even though they are synonymous.
  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
    Betaine may interact with medications for liver disease, heart disease, or kidney stones, and should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
  • Cetrimonium Chloride (also known as cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC)) – a quaternary ammonium compound (QUAT) used as a preservative, antiseptic, and surfactant in hair care, skincare, and cleaning products. CTAC is a known human toxicant and allergen that may cause skin and respiratory reactions. It is suspected to be an environmental toxin and is harmful to the reproductive, endocrine, and neurological systems.
  • Chlorphenesin – a synthetic preservative in skincare that may be an allergen and may be toxic to the immune system. It may bioaccumulate in humans. Chlorphenesin is restricted for use in Japan.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Sodium Benzoate with Citric Acid – When sodium benzoate and citric acid are combined, there is a risk of them reacting to form benzene, a known carcinogen.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that it's a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Some products do contain Green Tea Extract, and while that is usually a healthy ingredient, it should be avoided in anyone with a serious liver condition.

According to its website, Neora supplement products may contain

  • Fruit/Vegetable Juice (Natural Flavors) – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juices are commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals). They may also contain added sugars and artificial flavorings, which can cause health issues.
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.

Nikken has a mission to help and inspire people to discover active wellness, focusing on 5 pillars of wellness: healthy mind, healthy body, healthy family, healthy society, and healthy finances. They sell a variety of products, including hygiene, lifestyle, jewelry, nutrition, fashion, supplements, water filters, air filters, and technology to help you sleep.

Nikken skincare product ingredients I found concerning include:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies and immunotoxicity and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Supplement ingredients include:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Titanium Dioxide – a food coloring agent for pills that is banned in Europe. It may be toxic to your immune and reproductive systems.

The website tagline is: “Discover organic products that nourish, comfort and ground you,” and some products are mentioned to have organic ingredients, but there is no organic label.

I do appreciate seeing the product data sheets stating “does not contain parabens, phenoxyethanol, PEGs, phthalates, EDTA, GMO ingredients, synthetic coloring or fragrance,” but it would be nice if they were more transparent about what they use for fragrance and flavors.

Neumi is a wellness supplement company specializing in glutathione and related peptide/nutrient formulas.

Neumi raves about their HydroStat Nanotechnology™, which is a proprietary process developed by Neumi LLC. This innovative technology manipulates ultra-pure water to its natural properties, creating unique water-cluster protection for nano-sized particles. This protection makes it easier and faster for them to navigate deeper into the skin, through the bloodstream, and into organic cells.

Unfortunately, Neumi only discloses key ingredients. No full ingredient lists are available publicly.

NorthStar provides a few nutritional supplement products.

  • Artificial Flavors – this includes sucralose, aspertame, etc. It can cause type 2 diabetes, various cancers, cardio problems, and weight gain.
  • Juice Powders – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice powders often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring and anti-caking. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor, anti-caking, and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Norwex is a company dedicated to selling household cleaners, personal care products, skincare, and hair care.

Unfortunately, Norwex only discloses key ingredients. No full ingredient lists are available publicly.

NutraGrove is a wellness brand that offers a variety of wellness supplements, gummies, and skincare products.

NutraGrove skincare products contain the following ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

*** Not all products on the NutraGrove website contain publically available ingredient lists.

Supplement/gummy products include the following ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Natural Color – the lack of transparency is misleading. While natural is better than artificial, companies are still allowed to use artificial preservatives and other additives. “Natural color” can still cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity, cognitive concerns, cancers, and cell mutations (especially in children). Some additives are allowed in the US but not overseas (specifically E16Of).
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • some products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar/fructose may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders

Some products contain CBD ingredients. Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold may contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

Oliveda (Olive Tree People) offers a variety of supplements and personal care products focused on olive oil.

  • Apple juice concentrate – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice concentrates often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals). If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known carcinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
    Betaine may interact with medications for liver disease, heart disease, or kidney stones, and should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies and immunotoxicity and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Pampered Chef provides cookware, bakeware, and food mixtures.

The Pampered Chef website was missing information on plastics and cookware coatings… keeping in mind there is no such thing as a fully nontoxic cookware coating. Nearly all coatings involve PFAS contamination or PFAS ingredients.

Food products contain soy and corn ingredients, moderate to high sugar content, and natural flavors.

Partner Co provides a variety of products, including wellness supplements, skincare,

Skincare and hair care ingredients include:

  • Acetone – a chemical solvent used to dissolve skin impurities. It may cause skin irritation, dryness, redness, and cracking (especially in sensitive skin). It may also compromise the skin's natural barrier functions. It is toxic to the respiratory and nervous systems.
  • Perfluoropropylene – a solvent and PFAS (forever-chemical) substance used in skincare used to enhance skin texture. May cause reproductive harm, cancer, and immune system suppression.
  • Fluoropolymer – a PFAS (forever-chemical) used as a water-repellant in sunscreens, moisturizers, and makeup. Health risks include causing cancer, and is toxic to the immune and reproductive systems, including causing developmental harm to the unborn baby.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

** NOT ALL SKIN AND HAIR CARE ITEMS INCLUDE A PUBLIC INGREDIENT LIST

Supplement ingredients include:

  • Juice Concentrates – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice concentrates often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals). If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Perfectly Posh prides itself on being all about self-care, providing luxurious skincare, hair care, and bath and body type products.

Perfectly Posh ingredients include:

  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Pink Zebra is all about home fragrance products. It also sells a variety of home cleanersand body lotions.

No ingredient lists were available for any of the products on the Pink Zebra website.

Q Sciences provides a variety of home and personal care products and supplements. They claim to be fully nontoxic.

Unfortunately, this company does not provide actual product labels or ingredient lists on its website for prospective customers to review.

Riman is a natural, vegan skincare, body care, hair care, and wellness supplement brand

The Riman skincare contains:

  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
  • BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) – a preservative known for disrupting the endocrine system (hormones), carcinogen, neurotoxin, may disrupt and suppress the immune system, respiratory system, and cause irritation and allergic reactions to the skin. May also be toxic to several organs and systems within your body (liver, thyroid, kidney, lung, circulatory system, reproductive system).
  • Cetrimonium Chloride (cetyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (CTAC))- a quaternary ammonium salt (QUAT) that works as a conditioning agent and surfactant in hair and skin care products. It is known as a human toxicant and allergen, and is suspected to be an environmental toxin. It may disrupt the reproductive and endocrin (hormones) systems, and may be a neurotoxin.
  • Cyclopentasiloxane – is a silicon-based cyclic compound used to help lower product production costs that may cause environmental toxicity, neurotoxicity , cancer, and disrupt your endocrine system (hormones). This ingredient is known to bioaccumulate in humans and in wildlife (through wastewater contamination). It also has high contamination concerns for Cyclotetrasiloxane (endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental toxicity, possible liver toxicity, and increases the penetration of the product into your body while causing additional bioaccumulation).
  • Dimethicone – a silicon-based polymer used as a lubricant and conditioning agent. It also has high contamination concerns for Cyclotetrasiloxane (endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental toxicity, possible liver toxicity, and increases the penetration of the product into your body while causing additional bioaccumulation) and Cyclopentasiloxane (neurotoxin, endocrine disruptor, organ toxicity, cancers, and additional contamination concerns for cyclotetrasiloxane – also is persistent with bioaccumulation in humans and wildlife).
  • Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) – a synthetic solvent in cosmetics and skincare. It may potentially harm the kidneys, immune system, endocrine system (hormones), and circulatory system
    Contamination concerns: ethylene oxide (cancerous, developmental harm, reproductive harm) and 1,4-Dioxane (carcerous, toxic to liver and kidneys, and causes reproductive harm)
  • Methyl Perfluorobutyl Ether – a synthetic perfluorinated hydrocarbon (PFAS) used as a water repellent and lubricant. It is known to bioaccumulate in wildlife and humans. It is a known allergen, and is toxic to the immune, reproductive, and cardiovascular systems. May cause cancer and may disrupt thyroid functioning. It has been found to be unsafe for use in cosmetics, and is banned in some countries.
  • Propylene Glycol – while not usually considered harmful, it can be if you have underlying health issues (especially kidney, metabolic, or liver disease). It is a synthetic liquid used to prevent caking, improve texture, skin or hair conditioner, antifreeze, and as a solvent. May cause allergies and respiratory issues (in about 4% of the population), central nervous system depression, acidosis, immune system toxicity, kidney damage, and liver disease. It may also break down into carcinogenic compounds if heated during processing.

According to its website, Riman Supplement products contain

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Juice concentrates – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice concentrates often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.

Root provides human and pet wellness supplements.

Skincare ingredients to be aware of include:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies and immunotoxicity and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and is documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Ingredients. to be aware of include:

  • Drink products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders
  • Plant-based capsules – this is generic enough to not actually tell us what is in it, allowing for hidden ingredients or potential undisclosed allergens. 

Scentsy provides home fragrance products and laundry products.

Scentsy items included the following concerning ingredients:

  • Benzyl benzoate – associated with allergies, contact dermatitis, and immunotoxicity. It may also convert into benzene (especially if any vitamin C or sugar is in any other ingredients), a known carcinogen. Other potential side effects include: causing inflammation, aggravating ADHD, and oxidative stress. *** It is toxic to cats, and is not recommended for use around children, pregnant women, anyone with pre-existing liver, kidney, thymus, or prostate issues, and anyone with a compromised immune system. Benzyl benzoate can bioaccumulate, increasing in toxicity over time.
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Polysorbate – a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier used in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. They're made through a chemical reaction of polyoxyethylene and fatty acids. They may contain manufacturing contamination with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (known carcinogens). They may also cause skin irritations, allergies, and risk fetal development and reproductive harm.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

SceneGence is a beauty company that blends science and nature to produce high-performing cosmetics. They claim to use clean formulas focusing on natural ingredients.

SeneGence product ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Alumina (inorganic compound aluminum oxide) – may cause allergies and respiratory distress. Also may cause neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.
  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies and immunotoxicity and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Benzyl benzoate – associated with allergies, contact dermatitis, and immunotoxicity. It may also convert into benzene (especially if any vitamin C or sugar is in any other ingredients), a known carcinogen. Other potential side effects include: causing inflammation, aggravating ADHD, and oxidative stress. *** It is toxic to cats, and is not recommended for use around children, pregnant women, anyone with pre-existing liver, kidney, thymus, or prostate issues, and anyone with a compromised immune system. Benzyl benzoate can bioaccumulate, increasing in toxicity over time.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Cyclohexasiloxane – a silicon-based polymer used in cosmetics and personal care products to help enhance hydration and improve texture. This bioaccumulative chemical is suspected to be an environmental toxin and be toxic to non-reproductive organs.
    Contamination concern: CYCLOTETRASILOXANE (endocrine disruptor, may be toxic to the liver, and allows other chemicals its mixed with to more easily absorb into your body, plus it bioaccumulates in your body, causing additional issues, and may be an environmental toxin)
  • Cyclotetrasiloxane – a type of silicone-based ingredient used in cosmetics an personal care products, skincare, and hair care.
    ***** THIS CHEMICAL IS BANNED IN EUROPE.
    It is an endocrine disruptor, may be toxic to the liver, and allows other chemicals its mixed with to more easily absorb into your body, plus it bioaccumulates in your body, causing additional issues, and is an environmental toxin.
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • FD&C and D&C “lake” artificial colorings – petroleum-based colorants used to make cosmetics and food items more colorful and appealing. Artificial colorings (especially the “lake” colorants) are known allergens, carcinogens, neurotoxins, and can trigger hypersensitivity and hyperactivity, along with other behavioral issues. They increase inflammation, and can cause adrenal and kidney problems.
  • Homosalate – a synthetic chemical used as a UV filter in sunscreens, skincare products, and cosmetics. May disrupt your endocrine (hormones) and reproductive systems, and is suspected to be harmful to wildlife and the environment.
  • Octisalate – a chemical sunscreen agent used in sunscreens, moisturizers, and lip balms. It may enhance other chemicals' ability to absorb into your skin, contains possible allergenic effects, and may disrupt your endocrine system.
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!
  • Sodium Metabisulfite – an inorganic salt used as a preservative in a variety of skincare, cosmetics, and hair care products. It is known to be harmful to the environment and wildlife. There is strong evidence Sodium Metabisulfite may be harmful to the human immune system, and cause or worsen allergies.
  • Sulfates – a type of natural or synthetic surfactant or detergent in personal care products, cleaners, and food derived from sulfuric acid and alkali metals (like sodium or ammonium), used to bind fat, oil, grease, and dirt. They can cause eye, skin, and lung irritation, aggravate allergies, cause allergic reactions, trigger migraines, disrupt your vitamin B1 intake, digestion upset, and disrupt gut microbiome.
  • T-Butyl Alcohol – a clear liquid with a camphor-like odor used as a solvent and perfume carrier in cosmetics and personal care products. It is an environmental and wildlife toxin. T-Butyl Alcohol is known to be toxic to humans (reproductive toxin and nervous system toxin, with limited evidence of being a carcinogen), and may bioaccumulate.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Skaklee sells a variety of “premium vitamins, nutrition supplements, clean beauty, and green home products.” They came on my radar to look into when one of my favorite coaches signed up… I love the idea of promoting a truly healthy company, but a few ingredients pushed me away from actually joining.

Shaklee products contain the following concerning ingredients:

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Methylchloroisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative that can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, sensitization (skin issues after repeated use), respiratory problems, neurotoxicity, and organ toxicity. The European Commission banned its use and Canada Health has restricted its use, but this chemical is still allowed for use in the US.
  • Methylisothiazolinone – a synthetic preservative in liquid personal care products, often paired with methylchlorosisothiazolinone. It may cause allergic reactions, lung toxicity, neurotoxicity, and skin irritation. Many countries limit its use, and it is banned in the UK and Canada.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • QUATs (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds) – odorless antimicrobial disinfectants, sanitizers, and preservatives designed to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and fungi. They're commonly used in cleaners, cosmetics, and lotions. They contribute to indoor air pollution through VOCs (volatile organic compounds), increasing the risk of developing asthma and cancer. The biggest issue is quats are completely overkill for household cleaning needs. While they are a powerhouse in killing pathogens, there has not been a single study showing they reduce illness with use… however, they are known for creating superbugs that become resistant to both Quats and other antibiotics. They do stick to whatever you clean, leaving a film, causing you to be re-exposed every time you touch that surface, leading to additional exposures you may not notice – exposures that takes months of daily cleaning to end. This is especially problematic if you're using that same surface to prepare food. Quats can cause as much harm to your respiratory system as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day! It is also a known skin irritant and disrupts your skin's microbiome. They're also known to damage fertility, reproductive, and developmental wellbeing, and have been linked to cancer and neural tube defects.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Food products contain natural flavors and soy:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.

Sunrider combines Eastern traditions with modern Western innovation, creating proven herbal products to help their customers achieve wellness with a business model that offers brand partners to create an additional stream of income.

While most of their ingredients look good, there are products where ingredients are not disclosed, and some contain unnecessary ingredients:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies and immunotoxicity and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Dental and food items:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.
  • Triethanolamine (TEA) – a synthetic viscous liquid used as a surficat, pH adjuster, and fragrance ingredient. It lacks definitive studies as to whether it is safe, but current research suggests potential health risks, including cancer, skin and eye irritation, triggering allergies, and respiratory and immune system damage. It also has a high risk of being contaminated with nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.

Tastefully Simple provides a variety of “sauces, seasonings, and mixes without artificial colors, sweeteners, preservatives, or flavors.”

All their products are said to be made in the USA, which is amazing!!

The number one aspect that turned me away was seeing multiple products with the bioengineered ingredients disclaimer. Seeing that on the labels seriously bummed me out.

Tastefully Simple also routinely uses a few ingredients that families with sensitivities will want to avoid.

  • Carrageenan – may cause inflammation and bowel disorders. If mixed with acid, it becomes degraded carrageenan (poligeenan), which is linked to cancer.
  • EDTA – a preservative and stabilizer that may cause lead poisoning, kidney damage, and allergic reactions.
    This chemical can also negatively interact with some medications, (warfarin/coumadin, diuretics, digoxin/Lanoxin) potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of adverse effects.
  • Maltodextrin – a type of carbohydrate used as an additive to improve texture and shelf life. It may alter your gut microbiome, potentially leading to inflammatory bowel disease, irritable bowel syndrome, other gastrointestinal issues, chronic inflammation, chronic inflammatory diseases, and increase your body's glycemic index.
  • Modified Corn Starch – a corn starch chemically modified to enhance thickening or stabilizing agents. It's a refined carbohydrate that increases the food's glycemic index, potentially affecting blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • non-organic corn syrup – a sugar that could contribute to causing you to have a spike in blood sugar levels.
  • Soybean oil – contains high omega-6 content, which may cause an imbalance in your body's fatty acids, inflammation, and related chronic diseases. Soybean oil is also a phytoestrogen, which may affect your body's hormone balance and fertility levels. If it isn't listed as being organic, it also contains pesticide residues and is often genetically modified.
  • Soy Lecithin (emulsifier) – often derived from genetically modified soybeans processed with hexane, which can be left in soy lecithin after processing. It does contain phytoestrogens, which mimic estrogen in your body that could cause an imbalance leading to hormone related issues, including infertility.
  • Sulfites – preservatives that may cause hives, allergic reactions, and in some cases anaphylaxis in sensitive populations. It may also worsen asthma symptoms.
  • some products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar/fructose may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders

Three International sells a line of supplements targeting wellness, skin health, and immune systems.

Unfortunately, this company does not provide actual product labels or ingredient lists on its website for prospective customers to review.

Instead of providing a full ingredient list, they only provide key ingredients used for marketing.

They do, however, claim to be:

  • Gluten-free
  • Non-GMO
  • Vegan-friendly
  • Bioavailable
  • 3rd party tested

While those aspects of a product are important, it fails to show whether Three International uses ingredients not on that list, which could be problematic, undesired, or harmful for some people.

Topanga Scents provides a variety of home and personal care products. They claim to be fully nontoxic and do not use a few key ingredients.

Unfortunately, this company does not provide actual product labels or ingredient lists on its website for prospective customers to review.

For example, the only products I could find with somewhat of an ingredient list are their laundry detergents:

  • Plant-Based Surfactant
  • Sulfate Free
  • 1,4 Dioxane Free
  • Paraben Free
  • Preservative Free
  • Vegan
  • No Optical Brighteners
  • Not Tested on Animals
  • No Dyes

While those aspects of a product are important, it fails to show whether they use ingredients that are not on that list, which could be problematic or undesired or harmful for some people.

Topanga Scents does offer a 30-day money-back guarantee. However, “any products returned used, opened, and/or damaged will not be eligible for a refund” (so there is no try it and return it if you don't like it). Refunds will not include shipping charges, except for faulty or damaged items.

Tranont is a mission to improve people’s finances while providing nutritional supplements, including CBD-infused products.

Skincare ingredients to be aware of include:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Cyclomethicone – a silicone-baed ingredient used in skincare and cosmeticsused to provide a silky texture. It may bioaccumulate in humans and wildlife. May be toxic to the liver. Suspected environmental toxin. May disrupt the endocrine system and reproductive systems (including developmental toxicity for unborn babies). Cyclomethicone may enhance the skin penetration of other ingredients, and is banned in Europe.
  • Dimethicone – a silicon-based polymer used as a lubricant and conditioning agent. It also has high contamination concerns for Cyclotetrasiloxane (endocrine disruptor, reproductive and developmental toxicity, possible liver toxicity, and increases the penetration of the product into your body while causing additional bioaccumulation) and Cyclopentasiloxane (neurotoxin, endocrine disruptor, organ toxicity, cancers, and additional contamination concerns for cyclotetrasiloxane – also is persistent with bioaccumulation in humans and wildlife).
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.

Supplement ingredients to be aware of include:

  • some products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar/fructose may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Some products contain CBD/THC. Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold do contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

All Tupperware items are BPA-free, but there is no available information on what other bisphenols they use.

Plastic is generally problematic for human and environmental health. BPS and BPF are common replacements for BPA, but are not any healthier (unfortunately).

Usana doesn't publish much information about the brand itself, but it does sell a variety of products in the supplement and skincare industry.

**Not all Usana products contain a full ingredient list.

Usana products contain the following ingredients you'll want to be aware of:

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Ethylene Glycol – a colorless, odorless, sweet-tasting liquid used as antifreeze and in pharmaceuticals. It is toxic and can be harmful when ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin. When in your body, it metabolizes into toxic compounds (glycolic acid and oxalic acid), which can cause kidney damage, acute kidney failure, seizures, respiratory issues, cardiovascular issues, and gastrointestinal issues.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.
  • Polysorbate – a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier used in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. They're made through a chemical reaction of polyoxyethylene and fatty acids. They may contain manufacturing contamination with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (known carcinogens). They may also cause skin irritations, allergies, and risk fetal development and reproductive harm.
  • QUATs (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds) – odorless antimicrobial disinfectants, sanitizers, and preservatives designed to kill microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, molds, and fungi. They're commonly used in cleaners, cosmetics, and lotions. They contribute to indoor air pollution through VOCs (volatile organic compounds), increasing the risk of developing asthma and cancer. The biggest issue is quats are completely overkill for household cleaning needs. While they are a powerhouse in killing pathogens, there has not been a single study showing they reduce illness with use… however, they are known for creating superbugs that become resistant to both Quats and other antibiotics. They do stick to whatever you clean, leaving a film, causing you to be re-exposed every time you touch that surface, leading to additional exposures you may not notice – exposures that takes months of daily cleaning to end. This is especially problematic if you're using that same surface to prepare food. Quats can cause as much harm to your respiratory system as smoking a pack of cigarettes a day! It is also a known skin irritant and disrupts your skin's microbiome. They're also known to damage fertility, reproductive, and developmental wellbeing, and have been linked to cancer and neural tube defects.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!

Food products contain cellulose, flavors, mono and diglycerides, soy, and natural moderate to high sugar content.

  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.
  • Undisclosed Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Vida Divina provides nutritional supplements, coffee, and tea.

This company does not disclose any ingredient lists for any of its products

Youngevity (formerly Beyond Organic) is a 20-year-old online MLM shop providing products in the wellness, beauty essential oils, hemp, and beverage niches.

  • Cetrimonium Chloride – a liquid quaternary ammonium salt (QUAT) used as a preservative, conditioning agent, and surfactant in hair care and personal care products. There is strong evidence to consider this chemical as a human toxicant and allergen. It is toxic to the respiratory, reproductive, endocrine (hormones), neurological, and immune systems, and may be harmful to wildlife and the environment.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer. *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!

Younique is a popular skincare and cosmetic company.

Younique products contain:

  • Artificial colorings – petroleum-based colorants used to make cosmetics and food items more colorful and appealing. Artificial colorings (especially the “lake” colorants) are known allergens, carcinogens, neurotoxins, and can trigger hypersensitivity and hyperactivity, along with other behavioral issues. They increase inflammation, and can cause adrenal and kidney problems.
  • BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) – a preservative known for disrupting the endocrine system (hormones), carcinogen, neurotoxin, may disrupt and suppress the immune system, respiratory system, and cause irritation and allergic reactions to the skin. May also be toxic to several organs and systems within your body (liver, thyroid, kidney, lung, circulatory system, reproductive system).
  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).
  • Petrolatum (petroleum jelly) – a mixture of petroleum-based hydrocarbons used in personal care products. Knowing your source here is essential because if it isn't refined properly (which happens), you're at risk for non-reproductive organ toxicity.
    Contamination concern: Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs), a bioaccumulation chemical which may cause cancer, organ, and wildlife toxicity.
  • PEGs (polyethylene glycol)- petroleum-based compounds used in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and personal care products. The manufacturing process involves highly toxic and carcinogenic gas (ethylene oxide), causing potential contamination and exposure risks. Many PEGs are also contaminated with 1,4 dioxane (cancerous), and are not biodegradable. Health concerns include skin irritation, allergic reactions, headaches, fatigue, cognitive impairment, digestive issues, electrolyte imbalances, cancer, and various body system toxicity.
  • Polysorbate – a non-ionic surfactant and emulsifier used in food, pharmaceuticals, and personal care products. They're made through a chemical reaction of polyoxyethylene and fatty acids. They may contain manufacturing contamination with ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane (known carcinogens). They may also cause skin irritations, allergies, and risk fetal development and reproductive harm.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the sense. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

Food products are high in sugar and contain citric acid, natural flavors.

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Xyngular is a weight loss company, primarily focused on weight loss.

Xyngular food products contain soy, natural flavors, acesulfame potassium, sucralose

  • Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K) – an artificial sweetener used in supplements, weight loss, and low-calorie products. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar, and is often combined with other artificial sweeteners to enhance its sweetness and reduce its bitter aftertaste. It may negatively alter your gut microbiome, leading to metabolic disruptions, insulin resistance, weight gain, neurodegeneration, and cancer. While the word “potassium” is in its name, there is no potassium or other nutritional value to this compound.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.
  • Sucralose (Splenda) – a synthetic chlorinated sugar approximately 600 times sweeter than sugar. May cause metabolic disorders, including Type 2 Diabetes, negatively impact your gut microbiome, and epigenetic changes (affecting gene expression and cellular behavior). Unfortunately, there are no long-term studies.

Moderately Healthy Non-Toxic MLMs

These are better than the least healthy options, but they still are companies I'm skeptical of purchasing from (and personally do not because of the ingredient list). Most of these seem to be GMO-free and mostly use excellent/natural ingredients, but there are still a few concerning ingredients found on their disclosed labels.

Agravitae produces skincare, coffee, tea, and wellness supplement products infused with Graviola, a superfruit grown in South America. 

Skincare ingredients to be aware of:

  • Chlorphensesin – a synthetic preservative and antimicrobial ingredient used in skincare. May be toxic to the eyes, skin, respiratory system, and immune system, and is bioaccumulate. This ingredient is restricted for use (and prohibited in some applications) in Japan. 
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.

Drink and Supplement ingredients to be aware of:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Amare focuses on improving mental health through improving gut health and optimizing the gut-brain axis. Amare products are non-GMO, and free from soy and wheat. In addition to gut-health, they also have supplements for increasing energy, improving focus and sleep, uplifting your mood, and improving your hormones.

The first issue to be mindful of is that Amare does use patented and trademarked ingredients without full disclosure of what is in it. When you have a trademarked ingredient listed on the label, the components do not need to be listed. This is a common source of flavors, preservatives, anti-caking additives, etc that are not required to be disclosed on the label. Some of these trademarked ingredient sets include a short list of ingredients, but because of “proprietary secrets,” they are not required to list out all the ingredients. Knowing many of these are powders, it is safe to assume that there are some sort of anti-caking and preservative ingredients included, but not labeled. This is often the case with registered trademarked proprietary blends.

Examples you'll find on Amare labels include:

  • Iso-Malto-Oligosaccariddes, BiMuno® (MW3® Prebiotic Proprietary Blend in MentaBiotics, Kids Happy Juice)
  • GOS Galacto-Oligo-Saccharides, Subfiber® (MW3® Prebiotic Proprietary Blend in MentaBiotics, Kids Happy Juice)
  • Galactomannan Fiber, Suntheanine® (MW3® Prebiotic Proprietary Blend in MentaBiotics, Kids Happy Juice)
  • Applephenon® (Amere GBX+ Proprietary Blend in MentaBiotics and eEnergy)
  • Enovita® (Amere GBX+ Proprietary Blend in MentaBiotics and Energy)
  • Enzogenol® (Amere GBX+ Proprietary Blend in MentaBiotics and Energy)
  • ProDigest® (Digestive Performance Proprietary Blend in MentaBiotics)
  • Zynamite® Mango Leaf Extract (Edge and Kids Happy Juice)
  • Oligonol® Lychee Fruit Extract (Edge and Kids Happy Juice)
  • PFBc™ Palm FruitBioactives Complex (Edge and Kids Happy Juice)

Other Supplement Incredients To Note:

  • Juice Concentrate – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice concentrate often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Hair Care ingredients to be aware of:

  • C13-15 ALKANE – labeled in the EU as a possible human carcinogen. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) indicates this ingredient may be harmful to non-reproductive organs, may irritate skin, and may harm wildlife.
  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
    Betaine may interact with medications for liver disease, heart disease, or kidney stones, and should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
  • Brassicamidopropyl Dimethylamine – possible toxicant or human allergen that is often conteminated with 3 Dimethylaminopropylamine – a human skin and immune system toxicant or allergen that is classified in Europe as being a “non-reproductive organ toxin”

Anovite sells anti-aging, immune support, skincare, weight loss, fitness, and pet supplements, centered around bovine colostrum.

Supplement ingredients include:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Effervescent – an additive to carbonate a product, improve its taste, and reduce any unpleasant odors. It is usually considered a healthy option, but regular use may cause kidney stones.
  • Hydrolyzed Soy – many soy products contain 30% monosodium glutamate (MSG). May spark allergies, especially in sensitive people.
  • Synthetic vitamins (B6) – pyridoxine hydrochloride has lower bioavailability compared to natural B6, and may interact with other nutrients and medications, increasing risk of adverse effects. It also reduces the amount of active vitamin B6 in your body, and is linked to neuropathy. This is especially important for people enduring seizures to consider (source).
  • 7-methoxyisoflavone – safety and performance effectiveness are not well established in clinical studies, but there are a few things to keep in mind: *** there is a risk of false positive results in urinary tests for cannabinoid use when consuming methoxyisoflavone. 7-methoxyisoflavone may interact with medications in the liver, potentially increasing their effects and side effects. So before using any supplements with this ingredient, you should consult with your health team.

Skincare Ingredients Include:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies and immunotoxicity and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate – May cause skin irritation or allergies, is classified as potentially toxic or harmful by the EWG, and is a known environmental toxin.
  • Peg-10 – while not toxic itself, it is often contaminated during the manufacturing process with cyclopentasiloxane, cyclotetrasiloxane, ethylene oxide, and 1,4-dioxane.

Aroga is a Texas-based wellness company that sells plant-based supplements and skincare. They believe your body is designed to be healthy, and nutrition is the foundation of that health.

Skincare Ingredients Include:

  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.

Beyond Slim, also commonly referred to as “skinny lemonade,” is all about weight loss through “cutting edge nutrition.” Its products are non-GMO, but they are not organic.

Beyond Slim ingredients to be aware of include:

  • Fruit and Vegetable Juice – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juices often lose flavor and aroma during processing, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “juice” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Drink products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders

Juice Plus + provides nutritional vitamins for adults and kids that are based on juices.

Juice Plus+ supplement ingredients to be aware of include:

  • Fruit and Vegetable Juice Powders – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juices often lose flavor and aroma during processing, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “juice” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Some products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders.
  • Some products contain Soy – Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.

Life's Abundance is a healthy skincare, home care, pet care, and wellness supplement company.

Let me preface this review by saying their organic skincare and hair care products look amazing. However, it does not disclose household cleaner ingredients. The only useful information I've found on the cleaners is the warning on the bottle: “TOXIC IF SWALLOWED” – so placing it here does NOT indicate that I would consider endorsing the cleaning products offered by Life's Abundance.

Life's Abundance Pet Food ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Folic Acid (synthetic folate, B9) – while helpful in many biologic processes, using folic acid instead of folate decreases the body's absorption by 35%. It may also mask the body's ability to absorb cobalamin (vitamin B12), causing underlying health issues to go unnoticed (natural folate doesn't do this). Folic acid can interact with certain medications, such as chloramphenicol, methotrexate, and sulfasalazine, which may not be suitable for dogs and cats (natural folate also does not do this).

Life's Abundance Supplement ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Life Activated sells a variety of dietary supplements targeting gut health, weight loss, improved sleep, improved energy, healthy skin, and improved immune systems.

Some ingredients are organic. However, the products themselves are not certified organic or non-GMO, and the company has no definitive statement on whether they use GMO ingredients.

Life Activated Supplement ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • moderate to high sugar content in some products – consuming too much sugar can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease. Too much sugar may also disrupt cognitive processes and cause mood imbalances.

Some products do contain Green Tea Extract, and while that is usually a healthy ingredient, it should be avoided in anyone with a serious liver condition.

Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold do contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

LifeWave is a wellness company with a primary focus on phototherapy patches.

While the patches are non-transdermal and are capable of being used without sticking to your body, they do offer 2 skincare products that have a few concerning ingredients.

LifeWave skincare ingredients you'll want to be aware of:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Benzyl benzoate – associated with allergies, contact dermatitis, and immunotoxicity. It may also convert into benzene (especially if any vitamin C or sugar is in any other ingredients), a known carcinogen. Other potential side effects include: causing inflammation, aggravating ADHD, and oxidative stress. *** It is toxic to cats, and is not recommended for use around children, pregnant women, anyone with pre-existing liver, kidney, thymus, or prostate issues, and anyone with a compromised immune system. Benzyl benzoate can bioaccumulate, increasing in toxicity over time.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.
  • Undisclosed Fragrance/Parfum – a compilation of chemicals used to bring a special scent to a product whose ingredient list is protected by the FTC's Fair Packaging Act to not disclose propriety information. Typically “Fragrance” is a mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) used to evaporate quickly to produce the scent. They can come from natural or synthetic sources. Most synthetic sources are petroleum-based. Chemical compilations in fragrance are largely known for causing respiratory distress, skin allergies, neurological disruptions, gastrointestinal issues, endocrine disruptions (hormones), cancer, and increasing individual sensitivities to each compound involved. The worst part of “fragrance/parfum) is that its a place to hide chemicals from the label. They often contain hundreds (or thousands) of chemicals that are not regulated by government agencies.

While I do not recommend or use the skincare options from LifeWave, I do have a review about the patches themselves you may want to check out.

The patches themselves are made of plastic and contain adhesive on one side. To avoid exposing your skin to plastic or adhesive, you can place the patches on your clothes. If you're not ok with using plastic, LifeWave may not be for you.

Read my LifeWave Review

LivePURE is a wellness company that sells a variety of non-GMO wellness supplements, skincare, and hair care. On the website, it claims to abide by organic standards, but is currently exploring organic certifications.

According to its website, LivePURE supplement products may contain

  • Fruit/Vegetable Juice (Natural Flavors) – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juices are commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals). They may also contain added sugars and artificial flavorings, which can cause health issues.
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.

According to the LivePURE website, its skincare contains:

  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Triethanolamine (TEA) – a synthetic viscous liquid used as a surficatn, pH adjuster, and fragrance ingredient. It lacks definitive studies as to whether it is safe, but current research suggests potential health risks, including cancer, skin and eye irritation, triggering allergies, and respiratory and immune system damage. It also has a high risk of being contaminated with nitrosamines, which are carcinogenic.
Shop LivePURE with my favorite rep

Make Wellness is revolutionizing the wellness supplement space by focusing on healing through peptides.

Make Wellness launched in the winter of 2024 with 6 supplements available: Lean, Fit, Hydrated, Calm, Focused, and Energized. The biggest issue I have with Make Wellness is the proprietary ingredients without fully disclosing what is in it. When you have a trademarked ingredient listed on the label, the components do not need to be listed. This is a common source of flavors, preservatives, anti-caking additives, allergens, etc that are not required to be disclosed on the label. Some of these trademarked ingredient sets include a short list of ingredients, but because of “proprietary secrets,” they are not required to list ALL the ingredients. Knowing many of these are powders, it is safe to assume that there are some sort of anti-caking and preservative ingredients included, but not labeled. This is often the case with registered trademarked proprietary blends.

Make Wellness Proprietary Ingredients Include:

  • SolarSea® Sport AC (Ionic Mineral Complex) (Hydrated)
  • Fatigue Fighter Peptides™ (Energized)
  • Sensoril® Ashwagandha (Calm)
  • Peptistrong PLUS™ Fava Bean Peptides (Fit)

Make Wellness Ingredients to be aware of:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, anti-caking agents, and preservatives.
  • Juice powders – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice powders often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring and anti-caking. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
Read My Make Wellness Review

oHHo is a cannabis and botanicals wellness company that provides a variety of wellness supplements, chocolates, drinks, 

Ingredients in skincare products to be aware of:

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.

Ingredients in edible products to be aware of:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Some products contain high sugar content – high amounts of sugar may lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, metabolic disorders

Keep in mind that not all CBD products are THC-free, even when marketed as such. That being said, some of the products sold may contain full-spectrum CBD, which does contain THC and are recommended to be avoided by anyone who is subjected to drug tests.

Please note, I do NOT endorse using CBD-infused products. Studies have shown that it may cause mental health disorders and cognitive decline over time, even after discontinuing use. (Study 1, Study 2, Study 3, Study 4)

For military families: as per recent Tricare announcements, it is still not legal under the UCMJ for service members to have access to CBD products at home. As a military veteran and wife, I've seen many servicemembers forced out on other than honorable discharges just for their spouses having CBD products in the home. I know this is a controversial topic and many others insist otherwise, just giving you actual facts to make informed decisions.

PawTree is all about pet wellness (for dogs and cats). They offer healthy foods (including freeze-dried raw options), wellness supplements, food seasonings, treats, treat mixes, grooming supplies, and toys.

While the food offers solid options, there are a few ingredients in their pet spa line and supplements that you may want to be aware of (especially if you or your pet have sensitivities)

  • Cocamidopropyl Betaine – a synthetic surfactant that is a moderate allergen that also causes immunotoxicity. Contamination concerns: 3-DIMETHYLAMINOPROPYLAMINE (non-reproductive organ toxicity) and NITROSAMINES (carcinogen, neurotoxin, dangerous to developing fetus and reproductive system).

Supplements ingredients:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
Shop PawTree with my Favorite Rep

You can also check out my personal review of PawTree here.

Plexus is a gut health company that focuses on balancing the microbiome as a core focus of weight loss and increasing energy. They offer their flagship product: Slim (aka “The Pink Drink”)

According to its website, Plexus products contain

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.

The Joyomé skincare contains:

  • Dimethicone – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
  • Phenoxyethanol – produced through ethoxylation, a process that can leave behind toxic residual ingredients, such as 1,4-dioxane and ethylene oxide (carcinogens) and are documented to cause neurologic, respiratory, reproductive, and fetal developmental toxicity. The FDA claims it is generally regarded as safe at 1% dilution, but experts argue otherwise, especially for those who are sensitive, children, or pregnant.

Some products do contain Green Tea Extract, and while that is usually a healthy ingredient, it should be avoided in anyone with a serious liver condition.

Shop Plexus

Young Living (YL) is a company that sells premium essential oils, personal care products, skincare, hair care products, household cleaners, and nutritional supplements. Its historically prided itself on the trademarked “Seed To Seal Promise,” showing customer their care for developing essential oils through their own purchased and partner farms, having full control of all their oil production from the seeds, through the farming and distillation processes, and through the bottling process.

YL's oils, cleaners, and laundry detergent are very high quality, void of harmful additives.

Young Living does have a few hair and skincare product ingredients to be aware of, which is why they are placed in this section.

  • Benzyl Alcohol – is a solvent and preservative that causes allergies, immunotoxicity, and non-reproductive organ system toxicity. It also bioaccumulates, so the more you're exposed to, the more stays in your system.
  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
    Betaine may interact with medications for liver disease, heart disease, or kidney stones, and should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
  • Retinyl Palmitate – when exposed to UV light, retinol compounds break down. and produce toxic free radicals that can damage DNA, causing gene mutations, which are common precursorsare to developing cancer (source). Some animal studies have shown reproductive harm when exposed to low doses, and it is known to also be toxic to human reproductive system, and may cause developmental harm to unborn babies. may also cause cardiovascular harm, and interferes with cell signalling, causing cell mutations or death. Studies have also shown it increases photosensitivity, causing you to be more susceptible to sunburn, photoaging, and skin cancer.
    *** If you are pregnant or have liver disease, avoid retinyl palmitate!

Ingredients in Young Living supplements to be aware of:

  • Juice Concentrate – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice concentrate often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
Shop Young Living with My Favorite Rep

The Healthiest Non-Toxic MLMs

While there is still room for improvement, and they're no replacement for homemade herbal options, these are the healthiest MLM brands I've been able to find.

Crunchi focuses on skincare and makeup. It is considered the new Beautycounter, but it is more natural and healthier.

It does contain a few ingredients that I find concerning, but talking with them, it's at low enough levels to be approved for the EWG Verified label (Environmental Working Group)

  • Dimethicone (also called polymethylsiloxane) – a silicone-based polymer used in personal care products, serving as a lubricant and conditioning agent. it is non-biodegradable, and can accumulate in water systems, harming aquatic life. It causes build-up on your skin or hair, reducing your skin's natural ability to breathe and regulate moisture levels. Irritates the skin and may cause allergy issues. There are contamination concerns for Cyclopentasiloxane and cyclotetrasiloxane (banned in Europe), which may contaminate the environment and cause reproduction harm.
Shop Crunchi w/ My Favorite Rep

GGlowry is a Christian woman-owned natural skincare brand with everything offered being handmade by an herbalist. While not a traditional MLM, it does offer a multi-level affiliate program.

All ingredients are fully disclosed on the website, and is truly the next best thing to DIYing your skincare.

Shop GGlowry

HB Naturals is every herbalist's non-DIY dream. They offer a variety of drink mixes and herbal tinctures without questionable additives.

IDLife focuses on wellness supplements in a manner that addresses what you need, making choosing which supplements would be most beneficial for you.

Ingredients to be aware of include:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Vegetable Juice – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice powders often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring and anti-caking. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor, anti-caking, and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.

LoveBiome offers a variety of wellness supplements, focusing on gut health

Ingredients to be aware of include:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • Vegetable Juice – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice powders often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring and anti-caking. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor, anti-caking, and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.

Poofy Organics focuses on organic skincare, haircare, cosmetics, and body care.

While their products look amazing (and perform well), they do use flavors and fragrances on their labels.

  • Organic Natural Flavors and Fragrances – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve and of 100+ solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives. That noted, most of Poofy's fragrances come from essential oil blends.
    Organic Natural Flavors and Fragrances only need to contain 95% organically grown ingredients.
Shop Poofy with my Favorite Rep

Pure Haven offers a variety of personal care, pet hygiene, cosmetics, and cleaning products that are mostly healthy and certified organic.

The only ingredient I found that could be questionable was Betaine (in the charcoal detox shampoo)

  • Betaine – Contamination concerns: DIOXINS (highly toxic to the reproduction system, fetal development, the immune system, endocrine system… also a known cancinogen), Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons [PAHs] (highly toxic to the environment, carcinogenic, causes reproduction toxicity and developmental defects, neurotoxin that also causes behavioral problems, suppresses the immune system, harms the respiratory system, causes oxidative stress and DNA damage), POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS (known carcinogen, neurotoxin, suppresses the immune system, and reproductive system toxin that may also cause developmental issues. Also may cause neurobehavioral issues and impair cognitive functioning and cause skin conditions and allergies), and LEAD (reproductive and developmental harm, neurotixin causing learning and behavior problems, suppresses the immune system, increases risk of high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and kidney damage).
Shop Pure Haven with my Favorite Rep

(order here, where proceeds are used for funding nonprofit 3rd party tests)

Pruvit offers keto-friendly supplements that are Non-GMO Project Verified.

Pruvit products contain natural flavors

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Purium is one of the few companies that source clean ingredients AND has a certification from the Detox Project showing scientific proof that their products help to support detoxification.

It is worth noting that most of Purium's product containers can be composted. Simply remove the label, and toss into the compost bin (not recommended to use over food-growing garden beds).

** Please be aware that many supplements contain aloe juice, which should not be consumed by anyone with liver health issues, a history of cancer, anyone pregnant or breastfeeding, or anyone experiencing frequent constipation.

  • Juice powders – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice powders often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring and anti-caking. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).

Shop Purium

Sipology provides a variety of loose-leaf teas. Their teas are certified organic, but many products do contain undisclosed natural flavors.

Some of Sipology teas contain the following ingredients you should be aware of:

  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • moderate to high sugar content in some products – consuming too much sugar can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease. Too much sugar may also disrupt cognitive processes and cause mood imbalances.

Solle Naturals offers a variety of wellness supplements targeting a variety of needs: gut health, weight loss, wellness, sleep, energy, hormone health, anti-aging, and mental health.

It provides non-GMO, soy-free, gluten-free products

According to their website, Solle Naturals contains the following ingredients to be aware of:

  • Juice Powders – a more specific, yet still generic, way of saying “flavors.” Juice powders often lose flavor and aroma in the concentration process, causing the manufacturer to add various natural and/or artificial additives for flavoring and anti-caking. It's also commonly preserved with benzoic acid (even though benzoic acid is considered safe in small doses, it can cause allergies and may increase health risks in pregnant women, children, and sensitive individuals).
    If flavor, anti-caking, and preservative additives exist in the juice concentrate, the brand is not legally required to disclose those ingredients on the label because they are covered under the “concentrate” word listed.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.

Thrive Life provides freeze-dried food, meal options, and recipes for a healthier life. Its products are not bioengineered.

Food products contain:

  • Soy – a cheap additive with health risks. Soy mimics estrogen in the body, potentially affecting hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer. It also interferes with thyroid function and may cause digestive issues.
  • Mono and Diglycerides – emulsifiers that usually have no nutritional value and don't typically result in harm, but they do have a risk of being contaminated with pesticides, heavy metals, or phthalates.
  • Natural Flavors – the lack of transparency in labeling and the potential for multiple ingredients is concerning. The term “natural” has no formal legal definition, and manufacturers are not required to cite sources or components of this ingredient label. These flavors can also involve solvents, emulsifiers, flavor enhancers, and preservatives.
  • moderate to high sugar content in some products – consuming too much sugar can lead to obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic disease, cardiovascular disease, and liver disease. Too much sugar may also disrupt cognitive processes and cause mood imbalances.

Touchstone Essentials provides a few different wellness supplements centered around detoxing using fulvic acid and zeolite. I appreciate their label transparency and was not able to find any questionable ingredients on their products. 

Closing Thoughts:

With a personal health history of liver, respiratory, and neurological issues, I take health and wellness very seriously (you can read about my health story here). Because of this, I tend to shy away from many products in the wellness industry, choosing to take the most natural route possible (learning and practicing herbalism). While I love the multilevel marketing structure, choosing a company that fully aligns with my needs is very difficult, and seeing you've read this article in its entirety, I feel it's safe to assume that it's important to you, too.

If you're going to use any commercially produced product, MLM or not, please be diligent about your liver health. So many products end up causing more damage than they do good that, combined with stress and environmental toxins, will eventually build up to causing complications with fatty liver disease. I've learned this the hard way, hence why I wrote this article, and aim to help you make the best decision for you by helping you become fully informed about what you're getting into.

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Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) operates on a unique structure that distinguishes it from traditional sales models.

At its core, MLM is built on a network of independent distributors who sell products to customers and also recruit new sellers, creating layers or “levels” within the organization. This setup fosters community and collaboration as members support one another in building their businesses. However, it's essential to recognize that this peer-driven model requires both skillful marketing and resilience; success often hinges on personal relationships and trust.

The business model of MLM is both empowering and challenging. While participants can capitalize on residual income by earning commissions from their recruits’ sales, the income potential can be unpredictable and varies widely among individuals.

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From an insider's perspective, those who thrive in MLM often prioritize training and mentorship within their networks, cultivating an atmosphere where collective growth is valued.

By embracing a mindset of shared success rather than isolation, distributors can navigate the complexities of this entrepreneurial endeavor while fostering genuine partnerships that lead to sustainable outcomes and keeping up with modern marketing trends as a team effort.

Looking for more information about what MLM is? Check out this article.

Many people harbor misconceptions about multilevel marketing (MLM), often painting it with the same brush as outright pyramid scheme. This confusion can stem from a lack of understanding about how legitimate MLM structures function. Unlike illegal operations, legitimate MLMs focus on selling products and services while offering commissions and bonuses based on recruitment and sales performance. It’s crucial to recognize that success in MLM is not solely dependent on recruiting others; building a loyal customer base is equally important.

Another common myth is that everyone can succeed in MLM if they just work hard enough. While dedication plays a significant role, it's essential to acknowledge the reality that individual circumstances—such as pre-existing networks, personal skills, or marketing knowledge—can greatly impact results. Rather than promoting an unrealistic idea of universal success, aspiring participants should approach MLM with an open mind and realistic expectations. By fostering genuine relationships and prioritizing ethical practices over aggressive recruitment tactics, you can navigate this unique industry more effectively while cultivating a path that aligns with your values.

This article was originally published on Motherhood Truth

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