Fertility: what we track
Ingredients with published guidance or research that bears on fertility or trying to conceive.
- AdapaleneA third-generation retinoid in acne gels and creams, one of the first-line topical retinoids in the Canadian acne guideline.
- Bisphenol A (BPA)A building block of hard plastics and can linings that can migrate into contents.
- CadmiumA toxic metal that crops take up from soil and fertiliser, so cereals, vegetables, cocoa and shellfish carry most of the dietary intake. A contaminant, never a listed ingredient.
- HydroquinoneA depigmenting agent used to fade dark patches.
- IsobutylparabenA branched paraben preservative.
- LeadA toxic metal that reaches food through soil, water, old pipes and some imported spices, cosmetics and traditional remedies. A contaminant, never a listed ingredient.
- Lead AcetateA progressive hair colourant that darkens hair over repeated use.
- Lilial (Butylphenyl Methylpropional)A synthetic fragrance ingredient with a lily-of-the-valley scent.
- Partially Hydrogenated OilsVegetable oil chemically hardened to extend shelf life.
- PFAS compoundsFluorinated compounds that make products water-resistant and long-wearing.
- PFHxSA six-carbon fluorinated chemical used in firefighting foams and stain repellents, and a persistent contaminant of water and food.
- PFNAA nine-carbon fluorinated acid once used in surfactants and polymer manufacture, and a persistent contaminant found in food, water and blood.
- PFOSA long-chain fluorinated chemical used for water and stain resistance, and a persistent environmental contaminant.
- Phthalates (DBP)A softener that makes scent last longer and plastic components flexible.
- Phthalates (DEHP)A plasticizer used to keep packaging and flexible components pliable.
- Quaternium-15A formaldehyde-releasing preservative once common in shampoos, moisturisers and sunscreens.
- RetinolA vitamin A derivative that speeds up skin cell turnover.
- TazaroteneA third-generation retinoid prescribed as a cream, gel or foam for acne, psoriasis and photo-ageing.
- TolueneA solvent that keeps nail products smooth and even.
- Tretinoin (retinoic acid)Retinoic acid, the active form of vitamin A, prescribed as a cream or gel for acne and photo-ageing; isotretinoin is its cis isomer, taken by mouth for severe acne.
- Alcohol (in food and drink)Ethanol as an ingredient of a food or drink: liqueur chocolates, flavour extracts, kombucha and alcoholic beverages.
- Benzophenone-1A UV stabiliser that protects a formula's colour and fragrance from light.
- Bisphenol F (BPF)A bisphenol used where BPA has been replaced.
- Bisphenol S (BPS)The most common replacement for BPA in 'BPA-free' packaging.
- ButylparabenThe longest-chain paraben still permitted in cosmetics.
- Cyclotetrasiloxane (D4)A volatile silicone that gives a silky slip and evaporates after application.
- OxybenzoneA chemical UV filter that absorbs ultraviolet light.
- Phthalates (DEP)A solvent that carries fragrance and stops it evaporating too quickly.
- PropylparabenA longer-chain preservative used alongside methylparaben.
- Soy isoflavonesPlant compounds in soy that bind weakly to oestrogen receptors.
- TriclocarbanAn antibacterial agent used in some soaps and washes, and a close relative of triclosan.
- Triphenyl PhosphateA plasticizer that keeps nail polish flexible and chip-resistant.
- CaffeineA stimulant found in coffee, tea, cocoa and many soft drinks.
- Cyclopentasiloxane (D5)A volatile silicone widely used in hair and skin products for slip.
- EthylparabenA paraben preservative that stops bacteria and mould growing in water-based formulas and some foods (E214).
- MethylparabenA preservative that stops bacteria and mould growing in water-based formulas.