Cosmetic Ingredient Checker
Your skin absorbs what you put on it. Search common skincare and beauty ingredients to see what they do and whether they are safe, worth limiting, or best avoided.
Phthalates
AvoidAlso known as: DEP, DBP
Plasticizers used to hold scent and flexibility, linked to hormone disruption.
Formaldehyde Releasers
AvoidAlso known as: DMDM Hydantoin, Quaternium-15
Preservatives that slowly release formaldehyde, a known allergen and carcinogen.
Parabens
LimitAlso known as: Methylparaben, Propylparaben
Common preservatives that prevent bacteria but are debated for weak hormone-mimicking effects.
Sulfates
LimitAlso known as: SLS, SLES, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
Strong cleansing agents that create lather but can strip and irritate skin and hair.
Fragrance
LimitAlso known as: Parfum
An undisclosed blend of scent chemicals that is a leading cause of skin allergies.
Hyaluronic Acid
GoodA hydrating molecule that holds moisture and plumps skin, suitable for most skin types.
Niacinamide
GoodAlso known as: Vitamin B3
A versatile vitamin B3 derivative that brightens, calms and strengthens the skin barrier.
Glycerin
GoodA gentle, time-tested humectant that draws water into the skin.
Scan your skincare in seconds
Goby AI reads cosmetic labels and flags irritants, allergens and hormone disruptors instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why check cosmetic ingredients?
Skincare and beauty products are absorbed by your skin. Knowing which ingredients are irritating or hormone-disrupting helps you choose safer products.
What does 'fragrance' hide?
'Fragrance' or 'parfum' can legally hide dozens of undisclosed compounds, and it is one of the most common causes of cosmetic allergies.
