Clean Beauty Scanner

Cosmetic Ingredient Checker

Photograph a makeup or skincare label. The checker flags parabens, phthalates, fragrance, and EU-banned chemicals.

Scan a cosmetic label

SafeShelf's free cosmetic ingredient checker scans any makeup or skincare label photo to detect parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde releasers, hormone disruptors, and EU-banned chemicals — in under 30 seconds.

Toxic Ingredients We Detect

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Hormone Disruptors

Detects Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben) and Phthalates linked to endocrine disruption and reproductive issues.

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Hidden Carcinogens

Flags Formaldehyde Releasers (DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15) common in hair products and nail polish.

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Perfume Allergies

Uncovers synthetic fragrances ("Parfum") that hide 100+ undisclosed chemicals causing skin irritation.

The Science of Dermal Absorption

Unlike food, which passes through the digestive system and liver for filtration, cosmetics applied to the skin can bypass these defense mechanisms. The European Union's Cosmetics Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 has banned over 1,600 chemicals from use in cosmetics. Our AI cosmetic scanner utilizes this public regulatory data to identify potential endocrine disruptors, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) hidden in synthetic fragrances, and harsh surfactants that degrade the skin's lipid barrier.

Pregnancy-Safe Cosmetic Checking

→ Try the dedicated Pregnancy Ingredient Checker

Many cosmetic ingredients pose severe risks during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Our AI checker flags ingredients you absolutely must avoid while expecting.

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Strictly Avoid During Pregnancy:
  • Retinoids (Retinol, tretinoin, adapalene - linked to birth defects)
  • High-dose Salicylic Acid
  • Hydroquinone (High absorption rate)
  • Chemical sunscreens (Oxybenzone, avobenzone)
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Safe Pregnancy Alternatives:

Look for Hyaluronic acid for hydration, Niacinamide for brightening, Azelaic acid for acne, and Zinc Oxide for sun protection.

Upload a makeup or skincare label

Makeup · skincare · hair · fragrance

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Educational tool only — not medical advice

Results are generated by AI and are for informational purposes only. They do not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or a substitute for a qualified healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change medications or diets based solely on this report. Always consult a doctor, pharmacist, or dietitian — especially if you are pregnant, have a medical condition, take prescription drugs, or are making decisions for a child.

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General scans are public by default

This scan and its results will be publicly accessible and may appear in the community gallery. Do not upload images containing personal or identifiable information. Want a private scan tailored to your health? Register free for personalised scanning →

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a cosmetic ingredient checker? ▾
A tool that reads the ingredient list on makeup, skincare, and beauty products. SafeShelf flags parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde releasers, synthetic fragrance, hormone disruptors, and other listed chemicals from a label photo.
Can I check if my makeup contains heavy metals? ▾
The checker flags ingredients and product types commonly associated with heavy metals such as lead in some lipsticks and arsenic in some pigments. It reads the label; it is not a laboratory assay.
Why are some ingredients banned in Europe but not the US? ▾
The EU Cosmetics Regulation has banned over 1,600 ingredients; the US FDA has banned fewer than 30. SafeShelf flags EU-banned ingredients present on a US label so you can see the gap.
Are "natural" and "organic" cosmetics always safe? ▾
No. "Natural" is not an FDA-regulated claim. Scan the full INCI list regardless of front-of-pack wording.
What are the most toxic ingredients in cosmetics? ▾
Common flags: parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde releasers (DMDM hydantoin, quaternium-15), oxybenzone, synthetic fragrance/parfum, and PFAS in some long-wear makeup. Risk depends on concentration and leave-on vs rinse-off.
Is SafeShelf's cosmetic checker free? ▾
Guests get 2 free scans per day. A free account raises that to 5. Personalised analysis against your skin type, pregnancy status, and allergies requires Pro. See plans.

Scan a cosmetic label on this page

Free daily quota. Pro applies pregnancy status and skin conditions to the same label.

Scan a cosmetic label Pro from $59.99/year

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