The Truth About Sulfates, Parabens, and Phthalates in Skincare

The Truth About Sulfates, Parabens, and Phthalates in Skincare
What they are, why they’re used, and why we skip them.

Not sure what’s really in your soap? You’re not alone. The skincare aisle can be packed with ingredients that sound more like a chemistry quiz than self-care.

Let’s break down three of the biggest red flags in skincare: sulfates, parabens, and phthalates so you know exactly what to look out for (and what to avoid). When you know the ingredients to avoid, you can easily find products that are better for you and your skin.

Sulfates: What They Do and Why They’re Tricky

You’ll often find sulfates, i.e sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES) in soaps, body washes, and shampoos. Their job? To make products foam and lather.

But here’s the catch! That bubbly lather can strip away natural oils, leaving your skin feeling dry, tight, or even irritated. For people with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, sulfates can be especially harsh.

Parabens: A Preservative with a Price

Parabens (like methylparaben and propylparaben) are added to extend shelf life by preventing mold and bacteria growth. Sounds helpful, right?

Maybe not. Studies have raised concerns about parabens acting as endocrine disruptors, meaning they can potentially interfere with your hormones. While more research is needed, many clean skincare brands have decided it’s not worth the risk and we agree.

Phthalates: Hidden in Fragrance

Phthalates (often hidden under the vague term “fragrance” or “parfum”) help scent last longer on your skin. But they’ve been linked to skin sensitivity, allergies, and even hormonal concerns.

The tricky part? They’re not always clearly labeled which makes it hard for you to know if you’re using products that actually contain them. It is important to pick products that are clearly marked phthalates-free, because if it just says "fragrance" or "parfum" chances are that product contains phthalates. 

At Melrose Soap, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between beautiful products and safer ingredients. That’s why our handcrafted soaps and body care products are free from sulfates, parabens, and phthalates.

Instead, we use gentle, plant-based ingredients that cleanse and nourish without compromise. Because your skin deserves better, period.

Ready to feel good about what’s in your products? Browse our collection of handcrafted, clean-ingredient soaps and body care products made with real care, for real skin. Use code ' insta20 ' for 20% off your first purchase with us!