10 Common Synthetic Skincare Ingredients and Why Many People Choose to Avoid Them
10 Common Synthetic Skincare Ingredients—and Why Many People Choose to Avoid Them
If you’ve ever turned over a skincare bottle and struggled to pronounce half the ingredient list, you’re not alone. Many conventional skincare products are built around synthetic chemicals, fillers, and stabilizers. These ingredients are often chosen not because they are the best for your skin, but because they are cheap, stable, and easy to mass-produce.
Understanding what these ingredients are—and why they’re used—can help you make more informed choices about what you put on your skin and your family’s skin.
At Malama ʻOhana, we believe skincare should be built around real, nourishing ingredients from nature, not synthetic fillers designed to cut costs.
Why Synthetic Ingredients Are So Common
Large skincare companies often choose synthetic ingredients because they:
Cost significantly less than natural alternatives
Have long shelf lives
Provide consistent texture and appearance
Are easy to manufacture at scale
Increase overall profit margins
While not all synthetic ingredients are dangerous, many are used simply because they are cheap and functional, not because they nourish the skin.
1. Parabens
Examples:
Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Butylparaben
Why they’re used:
Low-cost preservatives that extend shelf life.
Why many people avoid them:
Linked to hormone disruption concerns
Found in some breast tissue studies
Can irritate sensitive skin
2. Synthetic Fragrance (Fragrance/Parfum)
What it is:
A blend of undisclosed chemicals used to create scent.
Why it’s used:
Makes products smell appealing
Masks unpleasant ingredient odors
Concerns:
Can contain dozens or hundreds of chemicals
One of the most common causes of skin irritation
May trigger headaches or sensitivities
3. Phthalates
Example:
Diethyl phthalate (DEP)
Why they’re used:
Help fragrances last longer
Improve texture and flexibility
Concerns:
Linked to hormone disruption
Persistent in the environment
4. Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives
Examples:
DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15, Imidazolidinyl urea
Why they’re used:
Prevent bacteria and mold growth.
Concerns:
Slowly release formaldehyde over time
Can cause irritation and allergic reactions
Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen at high exposures
5. Sulfates (SLS and SLES)
Examples:
Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)
Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES)
Why they’re used:
Create foam and lather
Remove oil and dirt
Concerns:
Can strip the skin’s natural oils
Cause dryness and irritation
Disrupt the skin barrier
6. Silicones
Examples:
Dimethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane
Why they’re used:
Create a smooth, silky feel
Give skin a “soft-focus” appearance
Concerns:
Form a film over the skin
Do not provide nutrients
Can trap dirt and oil
Not biodegradable
7. Mineral Oil and Petroleum Derivatives
Examples:
Mineral oil, Petrolatum, Paraffin
Why they’re used:
Very inexpensive moisturizers
Create a barrier on the skin
Concerns:
Derived from petroleum
Do not provide skin nutrients
Can feel heavy or clog pores for some people
8. Phenoxyethanol
Why it’s used:
Common synthetic preservative
Replaces parabens in many “paraben-free” products
Concerns:
Can irritate sensitive skin
Not considered natural or eco-friendly
9. Carbomers
Why they’re used:
Synthetic thickening agents
Give creams and gels a smooth texture
Concerns:
Petroleum-derived
Provide no skin-nourishing benefits
Used primarily for texture and cost control
10. PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols)
Examples:
PEG-100 Stearate, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil
Why they’re used:
Emulsifiers that help oil and water mix
Improve product texture
Concerns:
Often petroleum-derived
May be contaminated with impurities during manufacturing
Can increase skin penetration of other chemicals
What Natural Skincare Does Differently
Natural skincare focuses on ingredients that:
Nourish the skin
Support the skin barrier
Come from plant, mineral, or naturally derived sources
Align with environmentally responsible practices
Instead of synthetic fillers, natural formulas rely on:
Cold-pressed plant oils
Herbal extracts
Natural butters
Mineral-based ingredients
Gentle, naturally derived preservation systems
The Malama ʻOhana Difference
At Malama ʻOhana, we believe every ingredient should serve a purpose. We don’t use synthetic fillers, artificial fragrances, or unnecessary additives.
Our products are made with:
Natural herbs and plant oils
Locally sourced Hawaiian ingredients whenever possible
Natural preservation methods
Family-safe, environmentally conscious formulas
We design our products around what is best for your skin, not what is cheapest to produce.
Because skincare should be:
Safe for families
Gentle on the Earth
Made with intention
Built from real, nourishing ingredients
Choosing Better Skincare
When selecting skincare products, consider:
Shorter, recognizable ingredient lists
Plant-based oils and extracts
Mineral-based sunscreens
Brands that prioritize quality over cost
Your skin absorbs much of what you put on it. Choosing natural, nourishing ingredients can make a real difference in how your skin looks, feels, and functions over time.
Synthetic vs. All-Natural Skincare: What’s Really in Your Products?
When you walk down the skincare aisle, you’ll see labels like natural, clean, pure, and botanical everywhere. But if you flip those bottles over and read the ingredient lists, you’ll often find a very different story.
Many conventional skincare products are filled with synthetic ingredients, fillers, and preservatives. Not necessarily because they are better for your skin—but because they are cheaper to produce and easier for large companies to manufacture at scale.
At Malama ʻOhana, we believe skincare should be created with your health, your family, and the Earth in mind—not a corporate profit margin.
Why Many Skincare Products Use Synthetic Ingredients
Large cosmetic companies are built on one core principle: maximize profit while minimizing cost.
That often means:
Choosing cheaper synthetic ingredients over natural ones
Using fillers to bulk up formulas
Designing products for long shelf life instead of skin nourishment
Prioritizing appearance, scent, and texture over effectiveness
These products are carefully engineered to:
Look luxurious
Smell appealing
Stay stable for years on store shelves
But they are not always designed to give your skin the best care possible. They are designed to meet a price point and increase company margins.
What Are Fillers in Skincare?
Many mainstream products contain ingredients that:
Create a smooth or silky feel
Extend shelf life
Improve appearance
Lower production costs
Common filler or synthetic ingredients include:
Silicones
Petroleum-derived emollients
Artificial fragrances
Synthetic preservatives
Artificial colorants
These ingredients may make a product feel nice, but they often do very little to truly nourish the skin.
The Malama ʻOhana Approach to Natural Skincare
At Malama ʻOhana, we follow a different philosophy.
We believe:
Every ingredient should serve a real purpose
Skincare should be safe for families and children
Products should be gentle on the environment
Simplicity is more powerful than excess
That’s why our products are made with:
Natural herbs
Cold-pressed plant oils
Locally sourced Hawaiian ingredients whenever possible
Natural preservation methods
No unnecessary fillers or synthetic additives
If a better ingredient costs more, we choose it anyway—because your skin deserves wholesome, powerful ingredients, not cheap substitutes.
A Natural Alternative to Harsh Anti-Aging Ingredients
Many anti-aging products rely on retinol, a synthetic vitamin A derivative. While effective for some people, it is also known for causing:
Skin irritation
Redness
Dryness and peeling
Sun sensitivity
Unsuitability during pregnancy
Bloom: A Gentle, Natural Anti-Aging Serum
Our Bloom Anti-Aging Serum uses bakuchiol, a plant-derived ingredient known as nature’s retinol alternative.
Bakuchiol helps:
Smooth the appearance of fine lines
Improve tone and texture
Support skin renewal
Provide anti-aging benefits without irritation
It offers the results people want from retinol—without the harsh side effects.
Natural Sunscreen That Protects Skin and Ocean
Many conventional sunscreens use chemical filters that have been linked to:
Coral reef damage
Hormone disruption concerns
Skin irritation in sensitive users
Malama ʻOhana sunscreens are made with:
Mineral-based, natural ingredients
Reef-safe formulations
Skin-nourishing plant oils
They are designed to be:
Safe for your skin
Safe for your children
Safe for our oceans
Eco-Conscious Packaging
Many beauty brands invest in elaborate packaging designed to look luxurious—but most of it ends up in the trash.
At Malama ʻOhana:
We use simple, functional packaging
We avoid unnecessary boxes and inserts
We choose containers meant to be reused or recycled
We encourage customers to:
Reuse bottles for travel or storage
Recycle containers responsibly
Because caring for your skin should never harm the planet.
Why Natural Skincare Matters
Choosing natural skincare products means:
Fewer synthetic chemicals on your skin
More nourishing, plant-based ingredients
Reduced environmental impact
Products designed with intention, not just profit
At Malama ʻOhana, we create skincare that reflects our values:
Quality over cost
Nature over synthetics
Integrity over marketing trends
Because your skincare should be designed for the best version of you—not the best margins for a corporation.
Shop Natural Skincare Made with Aloha
Explore our collection of natural, small-batch skincare made with herbs, oils, and locally sourced ingredients:
Bloom Anti-Aging Serum
Natural mineral sunscreens
Botanical moisturizers
Family-friendly herbal products
Every product is crafted with care for your skin, your family, and the Earth.
LĀ: Rethinking Mineral Sunscreen — Protection, Nourishment & Respect for the Sun
Fourteen years ago, my relationship with the sun changed forever.
After being diagnosed with skin cancer, I did what most people do — I looked at every sunscreen on the market, desperate to protect my skin. What I found shocked me. Most sunscreens were filled with chemical filters, synthetic fragrances, and ingredients that felt harsh, irritating, and disconnected from the body and the environment.
I knew there had to be another way.
That moment became the beginning of Lā — our mineral sunscreen — and a deeper journey into understanding the sun not as an enemy, but as a powerful force that must be respected.
The Sun Is Not the Problem
The sun is essential to life.
Vitamin D — created through sun exposure — plays a vital role in immunity, bone health, mood regulation, and overall well-being. Humans are not meant to live in fear of the sun.
But modern life has changed how we interact with it.
We now spend long, concentrated hours outdoors — at the beach, surfing, gardening, coaching, working — often far beyond what our ancestors experienced. In these situations, supportive sun protection becomes necessary, not to block the sun entirely, but to help the skin stay balanced and nourished during prolonged exposure.
That is where Lā was born.
Why I Created Lā Mineral Sunscreen
I didn’t want a sunscreen that:
Stripped the skin
Blocked all sun exposure
Relied on chemical UV filters
Harmed the ocean
I wanted something that:
Worked with the body
Supported skin health while outdoors
Nourished instead of depleted
Was safe for reefs, land, and families
Lā was formulated as a skin-first sunscreen — one that replenishes vital oils while you’re in the sun, rather than drying the skin out.
👉 Explore [Lā Mineral Sunscreen]
How Lā Works: Ingredient-Based Protection
Rather than chemical filters, Lā relies on mineral and botanical support, paired with nourishing Hawaiian oils.
🌿 ʻŌlena (Turmeric)
ʻŌlena has long been used in Hawaiian traditions to support skin comfort and calm visible inflammation. In Lā, it nourishes the skin during sun exposure and supports recovery.
🌿 Red Raspberry Seed Oil
Traditionally cited as offering natural sun-supportive properties (often referenced around 20 SPF), red raspberry seed oil is rich in antioxidants and deeply nourishing to sun-exposed skin.
🌿 Carrot Seed Oil
Carrot seed oil is traditionally referenced for its sun-supportive qualities (often cited around 24 SPF) and is valued for helping maintain skin vitality.
🌿 Coconut Oil
Traditionally used in tropical cultures, coconut oil offers light sun support (often referenced around 8 SPF) while protecting and conditioning the skin.
These oils are not laboratory-certified SPF filters — they are traditionally valued botanical allies that work together to support the skin during time in the sun.
Why Lā Is Easy to Wear
One of the biggest complaints about mineral sunscreen is texture.
Lā was designed differently.
✔ Rubs easily into the skin
✔ No white, milky residue
✔ No chalky finish
✔ Lightweight but nourishing
Because it’s oil-based and infused with Hawaiian carrier oils like kukui, macadamia, kamani (tamanu), and coconut, Lā melts into the skin instead of sitting on top of it.
This makes it ideal for:
Beach days
Surfing & paddling
Gardening & coaching
Everyday island living
Skin Safe Comes First
Before reef-safe.
Before “clean beauty.”
Before trends.
Skin safe always comes first.
Lā replenishes the skin with:
Essential fatty acids
Antioxidants
Moisture-supportive oils
Rather than drying the skin out, it supports the skin barrier while you’re in the sun, which is especially important for people with sensitive or sun-compromised skin.
Reef & Environment Safe — Because It Matters
What we put on our bodies doesn’t stop with us.
Lā is:
Free from chemical UV filters
Free from oxybenzone & octinoxate
Designed to be reef-safe and environmentally mindful
Protecting the ocean is part of protecting ourselves.
When to Use Lā & Considerations
Lā is designed for daily outdoor use, but mindful sun exposure is still important.
Considerations:
Reapply during prolonged sun exposure
Patch test before use
Avoid use if allergic to any botanical ingredients
Those with medical sun sensitivity should follow professional guidance
Why Hawaiian Oils Matter
The effectiveness of Lā isn’t just about sun support — it’s about how the skin feels after hours outside.
By blending sun-supportive botanicals with Hawaiian oils like:
Kukui
Kamani (tamanu)
Macadamia
Coconut
Lā helps skin stay soft, resilient, and comfortable instead of tight or depleted.
A Different Philosophy of Sun Care
Lā was never meant to block life.
It was meant to support it.
To protect when protection is needed.
To nourish while you’re outside.
To honor the sun as a partner — not an enemy.
👉 Learn more about [Lā Mineral Sunscreen]
This article is for educational purposes only. Our products are cosmetic and wellness-focused and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
🌿 FEATURED PRODUCT SIDEBAR
LĀ — MINERAL SUNSCREEN
Lā is a nourishing mineral sunscreen crafted for long days outdoors.
Formulated with ʻolena (turmeric), red raspberry seed oil, carrot seed oil, coconut oil, and soothing Hawaiian carrier oils, Lā supports the skin while in the sun — without white residue or harsh chemicals.
Designed for island living, active families, and ocean lovers.
Bakuchiol vs. Retinol: A Gentle Alternative Rooted in Tradition
Retinol has long been considered the gold standard in modern skincare for improving the look of skin texture and tone. But for many people—especially those with sensitive, sun-exposed, or easily irritated skin—retinol can feel harsh, drying, or difficult to use consistently.
Enter bakuchiol: a plant-derived ingredient with a long history of traditional use and growing recognition in modern skincare as a gentler alternative.
At Mālama ʻOhana, bakuchiol is a key ingredient in our [Bloom Facial Oil], where it’s paired with soothing Hawaiian oils to support skin in a balanced, intentional way.
What Is Retinol?
Retinol is a vitamin A derivative commonly used in skincare to support skin renewal and improve the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture.
Common Characteristics of Retinol:
Widely used in modern dermatology and cosmetic skincare
Often associated with visible results
Can cause dryness, redness, flaking, or sensitivity
Typically increases sun sensitivity
Not recommended during pregnancy
Because of these effects, many people find retinol difficult to tolerate—especially in sunny or tropical environments.
What Is Bakuchiol?
Bakuchiol is a plant-based compound derived from the seeds and leaves of the Psoralea corylifolia plant. While it has gained popularity recently, bakuchiol has been used for centuries in traditional practices, particularly in Ayurveda and Chinese herbal traditions.
Traditionally, bakuchiol-rich plants were used in topical preparations designed to support skin balance and overall appearance.
Traditional Uses of Bakuchiol
Historically, plants containing bakuchiol were used to:
Support skin clarity and balance
Promote a smooth, even appearance
Care for skin exposed to environmental stress
Unlike retinol, bakuchiol was traditionally used in oil-based preparations, often combined with other soothing botanicals—an approach that aligns closely with how we formulate today.
Modern Uses: Bakuchiol vs. Retinol
In modern cosmetic research, bakuchiol has gained attention for offering retinol-like benefits without many of the common side effects.
Bakuchiol is often chosen because it:
Is generally well tolerated
Does not increase sun sensitivity in the same way retinol can
Can be used both morning and evening
Is suitable for sensitive or dry skin types
This makes bakuchiol especially appealing for:
Sun-exposed lifestyles
Warm or tropical climates
Minimal, oil-based skincare routines
Why Hawaiian Oils Make a Difference
The effectiveness of any active ingredient depends not just on what is used—but how it’s delivered.
In [Bloom Facial Oil], bakuchiol is blended with nourishing Hawaiian oils that support the skin barrier and improve comfort:
🌿 Kukui Oil
Traditionally used in Hawaiʻi to soften and calm skin. Lightweight and fast-absorbing.
🌿 Kamani (Tamanu) Oil
A rich, conditioning oil traditionally used for targeted skin care and comfort.
🌿 Macadamia Nut Oil
Helps improve glide and absorption while supporting skin softness.
🌿 Coconut Oil
Provides a stable, nourishing base that supports daily use.
These oils help create a formula that allows bakuchiol to be used consistently and comfortably, without stripping or stressing the skin.
Counterindications & Considerations
While bakuchiol is generally well tolerated, it’s still important to use it mindfully.
Considerations include:
Patch testing before first use
Avoiding use if allergic to source plants
Using as directed, especially with other active products
Unlike retinol, bakuchiol is often considered a gentler option for those who cannot tolerate vitamin A derivatives, but individual responses may vary.
Bakuchiol as Part of a Long-Term Ritual
Skincare isn’t about shock-and-awe results. It’s about consistency.
Bakuchiol shines when used regularly, in supportive formulations that respect the skin’s natural rhythm—especially when delivered in an oil-based ritual like [Bloom Facial Oil].
Our Approach at Mālama ʻOhana
In Bloom, bakuchiol isn’t used to force change—it’s used to support the skin’s natural processes.
By pairing a traditionally respected botanical with time-honored Hawaiian oils, we create a facial oil designed for:
Daily use
Sun-exposed skin
Sensitive or mature skin
Minimalist routines that actually last
👉 Learn more about [Bloom Facial Oil]
A Final Thought
Retinol may work for some—but it’s not the only path to radiant skin.
Bakuchiol offers a gentler, plant-based alternative rooted in tradition and refined through modern formulation—especially when paired with oils that truly support the skin.
This article is for educational purposes only. Our products are cosmetic and wellness-focused and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
🌿
BLOOM — NOURISHING FACIAL OIL
Bloom is a deeply nourishing facial oil formulated with bakuchiol and Hawaiian oils to support skin that has lived—sun, wind, and time.
Bakuchiol offers a gentle, plant-based alternative to retinol, while kukui, kamani (tamanu), macadamia, and coconut oils help maintain softness, comfort, and radiance.
Designed for daily use, Bloom supports long-term skin vitality without harshness.
Neem & Bacteria-Prone Skin: Ancient Wisdom, Modern Care
For centuries, neem has been respected across traditional wellness systems as a powerful plant ally for skin that needs extra support. Today, neem continues to appear in modern skincare—especially for skin that feels irritated, imbalanced, or prone to frequent flare-ups.
At Mālama ʻOhana, we use neem intentionally and respectfully, blending it with nourishing Hawaiian oils to create formulations that support the skin without overwhelming it, such as our [Kapu Neem Protective Oil].
What Is Neem?
Neem (Azadirachta indica) is an evergreen tree native to South Asia. Its leaves, seeds, and oil have been used for thousands of years in traditional practices for skin cleansing, protection, and balance.
Neem oil—pressed from the seeds—has a distinct earthy scent and is known for its strong botanical compounds. Because of its potency, neem is rarely used alone and is most effective when thoughtfully diluted and paired with supportive ingredients, as seen in targeted formulations like [Kapu Neem Protective Oil].
Traditional Uses of Neem for Skin
Across Ayurveda and other traditional systems, neem has long been used for:
Cleansing the skin
Supporting balance in areas prone to irritation
Herbal bathing and topical oils
Protecting the skin from environmental stressors
Traditionally, neem was applied in very small amounts, often blended with gentler oils. This same principle guides how we formulate [Kapu Neem Protective Oil]—using neem sparingly and respectfully.
Modern Uses of Neem in Skincare
In modern formulations, neem is commonly included in products designed for:
Bacteria-prone or easily irritated skin
Targeted skin care for specific areas
Occasional flare-ups rather than daily, full-body use
Neem’s botanical compounds help support skin clarity and balance, which is why it’s featured in focused products like [Kapu Neem Protective Oil], rather than general daily moisturizers.
Why Neem Works Best When Blended
Neem is powerful, but power without balance can overwhelm the skin.
That’s why neem is most effective when combined with soothing carrier oils that support the skin barrier. In [Kapu Neem Protective Oil], neem is intentionally blended with traditional Hawaiian oils:
Kukui oil to soften and calm
Kamani (tamanu) oil to condition and support comfort
Macadamia nut oil to improve absorption
Coconut oil to provide a stable, nourishing base
This thoughtful combination allows neem to be used in a way that feels supportive rather than harsh.
When Neem May Not Be Appropriate
Neem is not for everyone and should be used with care.
Potential contraindications include:
Very sensitive or reactive skin
Known allergies to neem or related plants
Use on broken or severely compromised skin
Use during pregnancy (often avoided out of caution)
For this reason, products like [Kapu Neem Protective Oil] are designed for targeted, occasional use, not full-body daily application.
Neem as Part of a Targeted Ritual — Not a Daily Fix
Neem is best viewed as a supportive tool rather than an everyday solution.
When used intentionally and sparingly—especially in a balanced oil blend like [Kapu Neem Protective Oil]—it can be a valuable part of a skin care ritual for areas that need extra attention.
Our Approach at Mālama ʻOhana
In our neem-based formulations, we honor the plant’s strength while respecting the skin’s need for gentleness.
By pairing neem with time-honored Hawaiian oils in [Kapu Neem Protective Oil], we create a product that reflects both traditional wisdom and modern formulation standards.
A Final Note
Neem is not about quick fixes.
It’s about intention, balance, and respect for the skin.
When thoughtfully formulated and used mindfully, neem remains one of nature’s most compelling botanical allies for skin that needs extra support.
👉 Explore our [Kapu Neem Protective Oil] to learn more about how we formulate neem for targeted skin care.
This article is for educational purposes only. Our products are cosmetic and wellness-focused and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Common Questions About Neem & Skin
Is neem oil antibacterial for skin?
Neem has long been valued in traditional practices for its botanical compounds that support skin balance. In modern skincare, neem is commonly included in targeted formulations for skin prone to imbalance, especially when thoughtfully blended with gentler oils.
Can neem oil irritate skin?
Yes, neem can be irritating if used undiluted or too frequently. That’s why neem is best used in small amounts and blended with soothing carrier oils, and why patch testing is always recommended.
Is neem oil safe for sensitive skin?
Neem may not be suitable for very sensitive skin. People with reactive skin types should approach neem carefully and choose products where neem is properly diluted and balanced.
What oils work best with neem?
Neem pairs well with nourishing, skin-supportive oils such as kukui, kamani (tamanu), macadamia, and coconut oil. These oils help soften neem’s intensity and support skin comfort.
The Art of Herbalism
It all begins with an idea.
The Art of Herbal Medicine
The traditional approach to health often focuses on fighting germs and illnesses. This is known as the “germ theory”. However, a growing movement is shifting the paradigm towards the "terrain theory" - the idea that we should focus on taking care of our overall health and wellbeing, rather than just trying to eliminate germs. By taking a proactive and preventative approach, we can make simple changes that have a profound impact.
This proactive, preventative mindset is empowering. By learning about and utilizing the power of herbs, we can take charge of our own health and that of our families. Herbs are relatively easy to grow and maintain, making them an accessible and sustainable option for natural medicine.
Incorporating an herbal garden into the landscape around your home is a simple yet impactful change. As the Hawaiian kupuna (elders) understood, having medicinal herbs readily available promotes self-reliance and stronger family bonds. It's an educational experience that sets a positive example, especially for children.
Knowledge is power when it comes to herbal medicine. Set a shining example for the next generation by putting health in your own hands. Understanding how to use teas, tinctures, lotions, and other herbal preparations can influence how you approach healthcare for yourself and your loved ones. Small changes can have a big impact on your overall wellbeing.