What's in Your Emollient?

What's in Your Emollient?

When it comes to reading the labels on emollients, creams, and lotions you may see mineral oil and chemical preservatives like Parabens, DMDM Hydantoin and not think twice about the potential negative consequences, but you should.  These chemicals build up in the body with repeated exposure, both to the therapists and the patients they treat.

ingredients chart

Have you ever wondered about the ingredients in your emollients, creams, and lotions? Let's take a closer look:

Parabens: Believed to disrupt hormone function by mimicking estrogen, which can trigger an increase in breast cell division and growth of tumours, which has been linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues. 

Polysorbate 60: Contains 1, 4-dioxane. According to the National Toxicology Program, 1,4-dioxane is reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen. It has also been linked with skin allergies. 

Phenoxyethanol: Known to cause allergic-type reactions on the skin in some people. Studies have shown humans can experience skin irritation, rashes, eczema, & hives. 

Disodium EDTA: It is believed to be dangerous when there’s an excess in the bloodstream as it can bind with potassium, increasing the concentration of the mineral to be flushed out through kidneys. 

Methylisothiazolinone: A preservative found in many liquid personal care products, has been linked to lung toxicity, allergic reactions and possible neurotoxicity. 

DMDM Hydantoin: Slowly releases toxic formaldehyde into your skin. Japan banned it because it causes irritation in the lungs, skin, and eyes. 

Iodopropynl Butylcarbamate: Suspected gastrointestinal and liver toxin, is thought to present risks to human reproduction & development, linked to potential for reduced fertility & increased risk of pregnancy problems and increased risk of birth defects. 

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: Strips the skin of its natural oils which causes dry skin, irritation and allergic reactions. Can also cause the skin to become oilier as it overcompensates for the loss of natural skin oils. 

Mineral Oil: Mineral oil is a petrochemical.  Mineral oil is made from refined crude oil and is know to clog the pores and trap impurities on the skin. The industrial process of harvesting crude is linked to several environmental impacts such as water pollution, air pollution, climate change and loss of natural resources. 

HawkGrips is proud to specifically manufacture our emollient without the use of any chemical preservatives that are harmful to the skin. Our proprietary formula is infused with natural Shea butter, and synthetic beeswax which makes it both hypoallergenic and cruelty free. This safe combination creates the perfect surface viscosity for therapists performing all types of soft tissue treatments.

Back to blog