Cosmetic ingredients
glossary
Beauty is also a matter of confidence.
Therefore, committed to providing answers to your questions about our
ingredients, we list here those that are available for use in our formulas. This way, you can check information about what they are, where they come from and how they work.
Do you know what is inside the cosmetic you use every day? The formula of a cosmetic product is made up of several ingredients. Each one has a fundamental role in our products. They can be of natural, plant, mineral, biotechnological, synthetic or animal origin and each one has a function within the formula. In order to provide transparency to the consumer and show everything that is in the products you use in your care routine, we have a glossary with all the ingredients that are available for use today in the Boticário Group’s products.
Access the glossary and learn about the origin and function of each raw material used in our formulas, in addition to the types of products they are commonly used in.
ingredients policy
All ingredients undergo a full review, conducted by a multidisciplinary team comprised of researchers, pharmacists, biologists, chemists, toxicologists, and microbiologists. The different technical areas evaluate the safety and quality of each ingredient before they are introduced into the portfolio of Boticário Group’s brands.
During the safety assessment of products and ingredients, we follow a rigorous process to evaluate controversial materials, which are materials currently accepted by the main regulatory bodies, but which are somehow subject to questioning, without scientific consensus, both from a marketing and technical-social point of view.
Within this process, if any relevant information collected by scientific investigation highlights a risk, we include that ingredient in one of the following classifications: banned, blocked for eventual replacement, or blocked for new products.
During the safety assessment of products and ingredients, we follow a rigorous process to evaluate controversial materials, which are materials currently accepted by the main regulatory bodies, but which are somehow subject to questioning, without scientific consensus, both from a marketing and technical-social point of view.
We have a specialized technical group focused on studying and evaluating these materials.
This group evaluates
all materials in
three areas:
Risk to human health
Environmental impact
Potential
social impact
We reject raw materials that pose risks involving slave-like work, child labor, origin from conflict zones and disrespect for human and labor integrity.
This guarantee is assured through a rigorous audit process with our suppliers and contractual commitments during their approval. Within all these premises, we actively monitor more than 200 substances.
We also consider consumer perception when making decisions about using a certain ingredient or material. We monitor consumer opinions through our Customer Service Channels and Social Listening, or social media monitoring.
After assessing a material, it can be classified as banned,
blocked for eventual replacement or blocked:
Banned
These are materials that are not part of Boticário Group’s own brand portfolio.
Blocked for eventual replacement
These are materials the Group establishes a plan with a deadline to ensure their replacement in the portfolio, in addition to blocking their use in new product developments. It is important to highlight that all materials that are in the replacement phase are regulatory accepted.
Blocked
These are materials that the Group has decided to block from using in new developments, thus not generating portfolio expansion. It is important to highlight that all materials that are in the replacement phase are regulatory accepted.
Boticário Group is concerned with transparency for the consumer and shares below the list
of banned, replacement and blocked materials, making our
commitments clear regarding deadlines:
*The deadline for replacing controversial raw materials applies to all products manufactured for Grupo Boticário’s own brands. For newly acquired brands, the Group is committed to removing these ingredients through a reformulation process, with specific deadlines based on the complexity and size of each brand’s portfolio. These deadlines are subject to renegotiation, pending internal approvals, without compromising product safety and quality.
list of banned substances
- 4-Methylbenzylidene Camphor
- Benzophenone-1
- Benzophenone-2
- Benzophenone-3
- BENZOPHENONE-4
- BHA
- Boric Acid
- Bronopol
- Camphor
- Carmine / CI 75470
- Cyclohexasiloxane
(produtos enxaguáveis) - CYCLOPENTASILOXANE (PRODUTOS ENXAGUÁVEIS)
- Cyclotetrasiloxane
- Diazolidinyl Urea
- Dimethyl Oxazolidine
- DMDM hydantoin
- Formaldehyde
- Glutaral
- Glyoxal
- Imidazolidinyl urea
- Methyldibromo Glutaronitrile
- Nonoxynol
- PROPYLPARABEN
- METHYLPARABEN
- Phenylmercury
- Polyaminopropyl Biguanide
- Polyethylene (microesferas)
(produtos enxaguáveis) - Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET – matéria-prima)
- Polylactic Acid
(matéria prima) - Polyvinyl chloride
(PVC – embalagens) - Quaternium-15
- Resorcinol
- Thimerosal
- Toluene
- Triclocarban
- Triclosan
- Zinc Pyrithione
list of substances in the replacement phase
Phthalates and diethyl phthalate
What are they for? Phthalates are a family of compounds used for several purposes and by different industry sectors. Diethyl phthalate is used in low concentrations in the cosmetics industry, as fragrance solubilizer, bittering agent, and alcohol denaturant.
Why are they being replaced? Some types of phthalates are believed to cause harm to human health. Diethyl phthalate, however, does not present any toxic action when used in low concentrations in the cosmetics industry.
However, as it can be confused by consumers with other types of phthalates and cause concern, we decided to eliminate diethyl phthalate from new product launches.
When will they be replaced? We are working to ensure that no products will be produced with diethyl phthalate after 2023.
Raw materials of animal origin
What are they for? Raw materials of animal origin are widely used in the cosmetics industry in the form of emulsifiers, fragrances, emollients and sensory modifiers, such as beeswax and sodium tallowate.
Why are they being replaced? Boticário Group does not use raw materials of animal origin that have been obtained through animal sacrifice or suffering, nor does it use animal ingredients, unless they are byproducts of another process or come from metabolism. Today, all of our new developments are created without ingredients of animal origin and the replacement of other items in the portfolio is Boticário Group’s commitment to contribute to sustainability and respect for animals and life.
When will they be replaced? We are working to ensure that no products will be produced with ingredients of animal origin after 2026.
Cyclopentacidoxane and Cyclohexasiloxane
What are they for? Siloxane-type silicones are used to provide sensorial and lubricating properties in skin and hair products.
Why are they being replaced? D5 silicone was considered suspicious by European authorities for accumulating in the aquatic environment.
Based on this, some international authorities are restricting the use of this silicone in rinse-off cosmetic products and are proposing to ban it in non-rinsable products.
When will they be replaced? In 2020, Grupo Boticário eliminated D5 and D6 silicones from its rinse-off products.
Only some non-rinsable items still contain silicones, but we are working to ensure that no non-rinsable products will be produced with Cyclopentasiloxane D5 and Cyclohexasiloxane D6 after 2024.
Homosalate
What is it for? Homosalate is used in sunscreens and is responsible for absorbing UVB rays.
Why is it being replaced? Homosalate is allegedly believed to be causing hormonal disorders when in high concentration. Boticário Group uses this ingredient in concentrations that do not pose a health risk. Although the raw material is considered safe by several scientific bodies, the Group is committed to removing this component from its formulations within the next few years.
When will it be replaced? We are working to ensure that no products will be produced with homosalate after 2024.
PFAs
What are they for? It is a class of compounds used in a wide variety of applications. In the cosmetic industry it is generally used as a surfactant and to provide water and oil resistance to formulations.
Why are they being replaced? There are different types of compounds belonging to the PFA class. Some types of PFAs are related to environmental impact and potential risk to human health. Perfluorooctyl triethoxysilane does not present any scientific evidence regarding environmental harm or human health. However, due to class controversy, we have decided to eliminate this compound from new product launches.
When will it be replaced? We are working to ensure that no products will be produced with perfluorooctyl triethoxysilane after 2023.
list of blocked substances
BHT
Where is it found? BHT (Butyl-Hydroxytoluene) is found in several cosmetic products, such as lotions, body moisturizers and makeup, acting as an antioxidant and ensuring that the ingredients in the formula do not change their characteristics when in contact with air.
Why is it questioned? BHT is an ingredient that has controversial issues related to safety due to its possible endocrine disrupting effect. In addition, regarding environmental issues, it is suspected of bioaccumulating in aquatic species.
However, most toxicological studies correlate this risk with high doses of the compound taken orally, and to date there are no conclusive studies on this potential related to cosmetics.
At Boticário Group, we use this ingredient in concentrations that do not pose a health risk. Furthermore, international institutions responsible for evaluating cosmetic ingredients conclude the safety of their use at concentrations used.
Did you know? BHT is also used in other industries, such as food and medicine, as an antioxidant for products.
Methylchloroisothiazolinone / Methylisothiazolinone
Where are they found? The compounds methylchloroisothiazolinone (MCT) and methylisothiazolinone (MIT) are found in a wide variety of cosmetic products. These ingredients serve as preservative in cosmetic products.
Why are they questioned? These preservatives are involved in some controversies related to a probable prevalence in the emergence of allergies and skin irritations depending on individual predisposition.
At Boticário Group, we only use these preservatives in rinse-off products, such as shampoo, soaps and conditioners, and in low concentrations, minimizing their allergenic potential.
Did you know? Preservatives in cosmetic products prevent the proliferation of microorganisms in the formulation, guaranteeing the product effectiveness and microbiological safety.
our opinion on certain ingredients
Aluminum salts
Where are they found? Antiperspirant and deodorant products are effective in blocking perspiration. They can be natural (and it is one of the most abundant substances in the world) or synthetic.
Why are they questioned? Aluminum salts have been questioned for allegedly contributing to the development of breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this. This raw material was evaluated by important organizations that state that, in fact, there is currently no scientific evidence to support this relationship, since the absorption of aluminum present in deodorants is much lower than the rate found in industrialized foods, for example. In addition, important scientific and regulatory organizations do not corroborate such hypotheses and establish safe limits for human exposure.
At Boticário Group, we use them because antiperspirants may contain aluminum salts and/or derivatives, as they are capable of controlling body sweat. Aluminum salts are present in antiperspirant deodorants within concentrations considered safe for the consumer, which is approved by the main national and international regulatory bodies. We also follow the most rigorous quality control, efficacy and toxicological analysis processes to ensure that both the ingredients used and the products developed are safe for use. We only use aluminum chlorohydrate in antiperspirant deodorants, always in accordance with strict international standards and national laws.
Did you know? This raw material is present in our daily lives, whether as part of the composition of foods and drinks, or as part of the materials we use to prepare them, such as pans and milk jugs.
Mineral oil
Where is it found? In personal care products, as they have a high hydration and emollience capacity. Also known as liquid paraffin, liquid petroleum jelly or petroleum, mineral oil has natural or synthetic origin.
Why is it questioned? Mineral oil has been questioned for allegedly posing a risk to human health, in addition to being related to possible environmental impacts due to its origin. It is derived from petroleum, which is composed of molecules called aromatic hydrocarbons, which are related to the risk to human health. However, research on this issue refers to unrefined oil, which is used in other areas, not cosmetics. Before this substance can be used in cosmetics, mineral oil needs to go through a series of refinement steps. In other words, it is completely safe and certified by several bodies such as ANVISA, the FDA and the European Commission.
At Boticário Group, we use pharmaceutical and food grade mineral oils, ensuring that the levels of aromatic hydrocarbons present in this ingredient are minimal, as the raw material undergoes rigorous purity, safety and quality assessments, always in accordance with international standards and national laws. Furthermore, we care about the environment and are committed to further reduce the environmental impact of our formulas.
Mineral oils can be found in personal care products (skin and hair) as they have a high hydration and softness capacity.
Did you know? When present in cosmetics, this material creates a protective layer on the skin, helping with hydration and preventing dryness, making it especially useful in harsh winters. In addition, mineral oils have been widely used in cosmetics for decades. They have no history of association with allergies and are therefore recommended for use on children and sensitive skin.
Talc
Where is it found? In products such as powders, eyeshadows, among others, as it has properties that provide softness and a smooth touch, good retention, absorption and natural hydrophobicity (that is, it keeps the skin dry and makeup intact). Known for its white powder appearance, this raw material has natural origin and belongs to the family of mineral clays. In the cosmetic industry, the purest talc (pharmaceutical grade) is used and, before reaching the shelves, the substance also goes through other purification processes in laboratories to assure better performance and more safety.
Why is it questioned? Talc has been questioned for harm to health when used in products for intimate parts of the body. Speculations regarding the raw material are related to its possible contamination with a substance called asbestos (a natural and inorganic fiber with carcinogenic potential).
Asbestos and talc can be obtained from the same mineral source. For this reason, contamination may occur. However, for talc to be used in cosmetics, it must go through a rigorous purification process and has to be obtained from selective mining companies, aiming for its quality before being used in products.
At Boticário Group, we request documents from our suppliers that guarantee they use asbestos-free talc. Furthermore, we do not use this raw material in products for use in the intimate area. Talc can be found in makeup and personal care products, such as powders, foundations and eyeshadows, as they have the ability to absorb moisture and prevent the product from hardening.
Did you know? Talc is considered the softest mineral on Earth. Furthermore, this raw material was used in ancient Egypt in beauty and body care products.
Sulfates
Where are they found? In personal care products such as shampoos and shaving creams. Sulfates are present in these products because they provide deep cleaning and function as a powerful detergent, leading to the formation of a lot of foam.
Why are they questioned? Sulfates are substances considered “detergents”, generally used in shampoos and liquid soaps. They have the potential to remove the hydrolipid protector from the scalp and have been questioned for allegedly contributing to dry hair and skin, which can cause itching and irritation. One of the types of sulfate, called sodium lauryl sulfate, is derived from coconut and palm oil, which are oils rich in lauric acid. However, they are well known for their complexities in the ecological and social sphere since, in order to be obtained, they are often related to deforestation and human rights violations.
At Boticário Group, we keep our attention on the entire production chain and prioritize the use of sodium lauryl sulfate obtained from suppliers that meet RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil) criteria, a certification that values forest preservation with all its biodiversity and compliance with labor rights. Moreover, sulfates are considered safe and non-irritating, and can be used safely by our consumers due to the concentrations they are applied (and following the product’s way of usage). Sulfates are used in our products due to their excellent cleaning power, foaming capacity and easy rinsing, and can be found in products such as shaving foams, shampoos, liquid soaps, cleaning gels, etc.
Did you know? Sulfates are essential for helping to control hair oil and for deep cleaning and are even called anti-residue shampoos. The use of sulfate-free hair products is called low poo or no poo, well known by people with frizzy and curly hair to maintain its definition and volume. However, our lines developed for frizzy, curly and transitioning hair have been carefully designed to deliver performance similar to sulfate-free products.
Palm oil
Where is it found? Palm oil is the most used vegetable oil in the world in several segments. It has unique hydration, texturizing (leaves that soft, silky sensation on the skin) and absorption properties, in addition to being antioxidant. Its replacement is still complex, as it is multifunctional.
Why is it questioned? Controversies regarding palm oil are related to its socio-environmental impact. As it is a widely used vegetable oil, its extraction can be conducted irregularly, harming workers in this chain, as well as local fauna and traditional communities located in regions of greater social vulnerability.
At Boticário Group, we take the socio-environmental impacts of palm oil seriously and care for the entire production chain. Therefore, we prioritize the use of palm oil from suppliers that follow the criteria of the RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil), an organization that develops and implements sustainability standards, reducing negative impacts both environmentally and socially. Its certification values forest preservation with all its biodiversity and compliance with labor and human rights.
These are some of the organization’s guidelines:
Do not deforest forests that are essential areas for local communities or that contain animals at risk of extinction (fragile ecosystems) | Prohibition of the use of fire | Regular consultations with communities, especially before developing any project | Demand a significant reduction in pesticides | Transparency and ethics in all stages of work | Palm oil and its derivatives are used in our products due to their efficient hydration and high absorption.
Did you know? Palm oil is the most used oil in the world. If companies decided to boycott the use of palm oil, they would need more deforested area to produce something between 4 and 10 times less than palm oil currently produces.
Furthermore, product formulations would have to be adapted to maintain the various properties offered by palm oil, which could lead to increased prices. Millions of people would lose their only source of income (in Indonesia and Malaysia, more than 4 million people depend exclusively on palm extraction and production).
Palm oil can also be used as fuel in diesel engines. Brazil is the 5th largest producer of palm oil in the world, with 85% of national production made in the state of Pará.
Silicones
Where are they found? Silicones are used in the cosmetic industry due to their sensorial properties (such as silky touch), fixatives and lubricants in skin and hair products. They are also responsible for making hair shinier and softer due to their emollient properties, creating a protective barrier and maintaining the correct level of moisture necessary to make your skin and hair look healthy. These substances normally have synthetic origin derived from silica, a substance present in sand. Silicones are used in the cosmetic industry due to their texturizing power and high performance in hair finishing. In addition, it is a substance that hardly ever causes allergic reactions.
Why is it questioned? Silicones considered cyclosiloxanes – D4 (Cyclotetrasiloxane), D5 (Cyclopentasiloxane) and D6 (Cyclohexasiloxane) have been questioned, mostly, about their environmental impact, especially in aquatic environments, since they are insoluble in water and can bioaccumulate on the surface, in addition to not biodegrade easily. Cyclosiloxanes silicones were considered by European authorities to be substances of high concern for the aquatic environment. Based on this, some international authorities are restricting the use of this silicone in rinse-off cosmetic products.
At Boticário Group, we do not use D4 Silicone. D5 and D6 silicones are no longer used in rinse-off products. We are aware of this ongoing discussion and are working to ensure that no non-rinse-off products produced by the Group contain these substances by the end of 2024.
Did you know? Silicones are also widely used in a wide range of everyday objects, from contact lenses to kitchen utensils.
Mica
Where is it found? Mica is a mineral powder that can be of both synthetic and natural origin and can be used in makeup products and personal care products.
Why is it questioned? Because of its origin. As great part of this substance come from India, there is a lot of concern about compliance with the basic human rights of miners and child labor.
At Boticário Group, we prioritize the use of mica from suppliers that are part of RMI (Responsible Mica Initiative), an organization that seeks to reduce the social and environmental impacts caused by the extraction of this material.
The objective of this organization is to end child labor in mica mining companies located in India, expanding on a global scale. RMI empowers local communities through education, offering better living and labor conditions in its local organization, in addition to partnerships with the government to prioritize demands and produce public policies aimed at this population. We believe that we can make a difference and that is why all of our mineral mica suppliers are active members of the RMI. Thus, they are subject to constant auditing processes and follow a code of ethics that is strictly required of all of the Group’s suppliers. Mica is used in by us to help keep makeup opaque and provide a natural shine that makes anyone even more beautiful. Our work with suppliers is ethical and follows strict criteria. Thus, mica becomes a source of income for several families and guarantees the professional development of several individuals.
Did you know? Some types of toothpaste have processed white mica. In the paste, this raw material acts as a mild abrasive, helping to polish the surface of the teeth and making them even more beautiful and shiny.
Disodium EDTA
Where is it found? Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is a substance widely used in personal hygiene products. In products such as shampoos and soaps, for example, its presence helps prevent metallic ions from interfering with the formation of foam during consumer use. This substance is responsible for sequestering metallic ions, such as calcium, magnesium, copper, iron and manganese and adding them to its chemical structure, almost nullifying their reactivity. In other words, EDTA removes free heavy metals that are present in the medium, reducing their reactivity with the other components of the formulation.
Why is it questioned? EDTA is believed to bioaccumulate in the environment, in addition to causing possible eye irritation. EDTA is used in very low concentrations, therefore it is considered a safe compound for human health. Regarding its bioaccumulative potential, international bodies have already proven that it does not accumulate significantly in organisms.
At Boticário Group, we use EDTA in some products, but we conduct rigorous purity, safety and quality assessments, ensuring safety for consumers always in accordance with strict international standards and national laws. EDTA increases the durability of products due to its ability to prevent changes in fragrance and color.
We also care about the environment and are committed to ecosocial responsibility, developing projects to protect nature, as you can see in our Sustainability link.
Did you know? EDTA can be used in the production of bread and derivatives in the food industry.
Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate
Where is it found? Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate (EMC) has synthetic origin. It works as a sunscreen that absorbs UVB radiation. Likely other sunscreens, it helps prevent skin cancer.
Why is it questioned? EMC is questioned for causing hormonal problems for humans and aquatic species. Furthermore, it is believed to cause coral bleaching.
At Boticário Group, EMC is used due to its protective properties against solar rays and for being an excellent solvent for other sunscreens, limiting the oiliness and texture of the product. This substance does not present any harm to hormonal conditions with the dosages we use in our products. In fact, there are international studies by regulatory agencies that guarantee that this raw material does not present any risk to human health. Ongoing research has been studying the level of environmental impact. However, studies show that EMC has a good ecological profile as it is biodegradable in aquatic environments.
Did you know? EMC is the most used organic UV filter in sunscreens in the world.
Octocrylene
Where is it found? Octocrylene is an organic substance that absorbs UV rays. It is widely used in sunscreens.
Why is it questioned? Octocrylene is allegedly believed to be causing hormonal disorder. Furthermore, it is suspected of contributing to coral bleaching.
At Boticário Group, this substance is used due to its property of absorbing UV rays and increasing water resistance (meaning that the skin remains protected even after sweating or getting wet), improving the effectiveness of the product.
According to recent publications by international authorities, octocrylene is not considered an endocrine disruptor (especially considering the isolated substance and the dosages in which it is used).
Regarding the environmental aspect, there is no strong scientific evidence that octocrylene poses risks to corals if used in low doses.
Did you know? Octocrylene is one of the “chemical sunscreens”. In addition to providing photoprotection, it has a fundamental role in stabilizing other sunscreens, such as avobenzone. Octocrylene also has properties that help improve the water resistance of the final product.
Titanium dioxide
Where is it found? This substance has natural origin since it is a white powder derived from minerals. In addition to its purpose as a physical UV sunscreen, it is also used as a white colorant for cosmetics and foods.
Why is it questioned? Studies show that titanium dioxide is considered potentially carcinogenic when inhaled and, therefore, its use must be controlled. Since 2021, it has been restricted as a food additive and has been used less and less in this segment. Regarding cosmetics, it has a different use. Due to regulatory movements as for this substance in recent years, Boticário Group continuously monitors scientific research and constantly reevaluates the use of titanium dioxide in its products.
At Boticário Group, this substance is used as a white pigment in products such as eyeshadows and highlighters and is considered one of the most efficient and safe sunscreens.
Titanium dioxide, together with zinc oxide, are the most recommended sunscreens due to their ability to reflect UV rays. They are permitted and used all over the world and there is a scientific consensus that – even in nano form – they are not capable of penetrating the skin and invading the bloodstream.
Even in this scenario, we do not use any form of titanium dioxide in sprayed products that can be inhaled.
Did you know? Due to its white color, titanium dioxide is used in the manufacture of pigments for textile paints, enamels, plastics, and others. It is also considered a food additive and widely used in the production of medicines.
Zinc oxide
Where is it found? Its origin is synthetic, but it can also be formed naturally from zincite.
Similarly to titanium dioxide, it is a very efficient inorganic physical sunscreen, widely used around the world and mainly in products aimed at children and those with sensitive skin.
Why is it questioned? Despite being highly recommended, it still believed that this raw material could cause skin irritation if applied to wounds, in addition to negatively impact marine environments in its nanomaterial format.
At Boticário Group, we use zinc oxide as it is considered one of the most efficient and safe sunscreens.
Several studies show that zinc oxide can be used in cosmetics safely and reliably. In fact, it is one of the most used ingredients around the world.
Furthermore, studies show that the dosages used in sunscreens does not make the substance harmful to the environment (even in its nano format).
This substance is used to protect the skin effectively and with a more pleasant texture, without the greasiness common to other sunscreens. We also use this substance as a white dye.
Did you know? Zinc oxide is also used in food and pharmaceuticals to soothe superficial bruises and burns on the skin.
raw material
ABOUT HEAVY METALS
Boticário Group products do not use heavy metals as raw materials, always following national and international control standards. These components, when present in cosmetics, are found as “traces” coming from raw material residues, that is, low levels that will not generate a systemic effect on the body. Several regulatory bodies determine criteria for the presence of heavy metals in cosmetic products, restricting their maximum concentration.
Why is it questioned? Some heavy metals are directly associated with toxicity, and exposure to high concentrations over time may be related to chronic diseases and serious poisoning. However, within established safety limits, they do not pose a risk to human health.
At Boticário Group, we do not intentionally add heavy metals to our products. We conduct a rigorous process of evaluating our raw materials to control the presence of possible unavoidable traces of heavy metals and ensure that they are below levels considered safe.
Did you know? Although metals are seen as villains for human health, some of them, such as zinc, copper, cobalt, selenium, and barium, are considered essential for the human body.
1,4-dioxane
1,4-dioxane is a substance belonging to the ether family and can be naturally found in some foods, such as tomatoes, chicken, and coffee. This substance is the result of a chemical process called ethoxylation and is used to give raw materials surfactant properties.
1,4-dioxane is questioned because it is suspected of having some unwanted effects (such as nausea, irritation to the eyes and respiratory system), in addition to being considered a possible carcinogen if there is frequent exposure to high doses.
At Boticário Group, we do not use 1,4-dioxane in any product. However, the substance can be found as impurity in some raw materials. It may be an unintended byproduct of ingredients such as: PEGs, polyethylene, polyethylene glycol, polyoxymethylene, -ete ou –oxinol, poloxyethylene, ceteareth, polysorbate-20 and 60, sodium laureth sulfate and PEG-40 hydrogenated castor oil.
According to international organizations criteria, the amount of this substance in cosmetic products are considered safe with traces of up to 10 ppm (parts per million). We adopt this limit of 10 ppm for products aimed at adults, and products for children’s have a maximum concentration of 4 ppm, since these numbers are extremely low and present no risks to our consumers. We collaborate with our suppliers to avoid contamination by 1,4-dioxane as much as possible during the product manufacturing process, in addition to having a highly prepared team to test and guarantee the safety of our products so that we can deliver the best for you.
fragrances
When it comes to human safety, Boticário Group went further and, in 2017, we created the New Fragrances Development Guide. The objective of this document is to inform Fragrance Houses about our position and commitments, since they are our suppliers specialized in the development and creation of fragrances.
This document presents the premises, technical, regulatory, safety and sustainability requirements related to the development of these raw materials, which must be adopted and proven by suppliers. These guidelines are applicable to all new fragrances used in products from Boticário Group brands and is updated periodically, whenever there is a change in the technical or regulatory scenario.
Boticário Group is proud to be one of the first companies in Brazil to share the current palette of ingredients used in the fragrances of the products in the portfolio, organized from A to Z.