Behind the Label: Why BHA & BHT Don’t Belong in Your Skincare
Posted By Marco Champion on
If you’ve ever scanned the back of your lotion, lipstick, or sunscreen bottle and spotted the abbreviations BHA or BHT, you might not have given them much thought. After all, they’re just preservatives, right? But these synthetic chemicals—short for Butylated Hydroxyanisole and Butylated Hydroxytoluene—carry some concerning baggage you should know about.
What Are BHA & BHT?
BHA and BHT are lab-made antioxidants that help prevent oils and fats in products from going rancid. In other words, they keep your cream smooth and your lipstick from smelling funky. While that might sound like a good thing, the way they interact with the human body is where the concern lies.
The Potential Health Risks
Several studies have raised red flags:
- Endocrine Disruption: These chemicals may mimic or interfere with your hormones, which could disrupt your body’s natural balance.
- Carcinogenic Concerns: The National Toxicology Program has classified BHA as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” based on animal studies.
- Skin Irritation: BHA and BHT can trigger allergic reactions or skin sensitivities, especially in people with already sensitive skin.
Why They’re Still Used
From a manufacturer’s perspective, BHA and BHT are cheap, stable, and effective. They work in tiny amounts and keep products shelf-stable for years. Unfortunately, cost-effectiveness doesn’t always align with what’s healthiest for your skin and body.
Better, Safer Alternatives
If you want to avoid these chemicals, look for products preserved with:
- Vitamin E (Tocopherols)
- Rosemary Extract
- Ferulic Acid
- Natural Plant-Based Antioxidants
These options can extend shelf life without the same health risks.
Bottom Line
BHA and BHT might keep your products fresh, but they could also be introducing unwanted risks into your daily routine. By choosing skincare made with natural, non-toxic preservatives, you’re making a choice that’s better for your health—and for the planet.