Why We Don't Use Synthetic Preservatives — And Why Your Skin Will Thank You
Posted By Marco Champion on
Skincare isn't just about looking good. It's about feeding your body through your skin — your largest and most absorbent organ. At CureCBD, we're committed to using only natural, plant-based, organic ingredients because we understand what you put on your skin ends up in your body.
Yet the skincare industry continues to rely on synthetic preservatives, binders, and emulsifiers that are approved for use, but not necessarily good for you.
Let’s talk about what the science says — and why we believe natural doesn’t just mean better. It means safer.
The Real Problem with Synthetic Ingredients
Many mass-market creams and lotions contain synthetic additives like:
- Xanthan Gum – a processed polysaccharide thickener that can disrupt the skin barrier
- Phenoxyethanol – a “safe” preservative linked to reproductive toxicity in animal studies
- PEGs (polyethylene glycols) – petroleum-based compounds that may be contaminated with carcinogens like 1,4-dioxane
- Denatured Alcohols – common in lotions and toners, but known to dry out and irritate skin
- Parabens – banned in the EU, but still found in many U.S. cosmetics, known endocrine disruptors
These ingredients are technically allowed in "clean" formulations at low levels. But over time and with repeated use, they can accumulate and interfere with your skin’s microbiome, hormone balance, immune response, and more.
How It Impacts Your Body
Your skin absorbs up to 60% of what you apply to it. That means toxic ingredients don’t just stay on the surface — they enter your bloodstream.
Here’s what studies have found:
Phenoxyethanol
A study published in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology (2005) found that phenoxyethanol exposure in rats caused testicular toxicity, reduced fertility, and disruption of hormone pathways at concentrations lower than what’s used in some personal care products.
Parabens
Journal of Applied Toxicology (2004) detected parabens in human breast tissue, raising concerns about their link to hormone-related cancers. Even though they’re present in small amounts, their estrogen-mimicking properties build up over time.
Fragrance & PEGs
Fragrance chemicals and PEGs can contain hidden carcinogens like formaldehyde or 1,4-dioxane, neither of which are required to be listed on ingredient labels. Long-term exposure can lead to chronic inflammation, skin allergies, and oxidative stress in cells.
CureCBD's Approach: Natural Preservation Without Compromise
Instead of synthetics, we use nature’s chemistry:
- Sunflower Lecithin (Certified Organic) – a plant-based emulsifier that’s rich in phospholipids, supports healthy cell membranes, and helps lock in moisture
- Mixed Tocopherols (Vitamin E) – natural antioxidant that extends shelf life and protects skin from free radicals
- Water-Soluble Rosemary Extract – naturally antimicrobial and rich in carnosic acid for product preservation
- Beeswax & Acacia Gum – stabilize texture and reduce oxidation naturally
- Essential Oils like Eucalyptus & Peppermint – offer antibacterial, antifungal properties while enhancing aroma
Why We Say No — Even When It's “Safe”
Just because the FDA allows an ingredient in small amounts doesn’t mean it’s the right choice. At CureCBD, our philosophy is simple:
If it doesn’t support your body’s healing, we don’t use it.
We design every formula to be safe for sensitive skin, children, and those with inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. That’s why you’ll never find harsh alcohols, parabens, PEGs, or synthetics in any of our products — not even in trace amounts.
Your Skin, Your Standard
The beauty industry is full of marketing buzzwords like “clean,” “dermatologist-tested,” or “fragrance-free,” but many of these claims aren’t regulated.
What is regulated? The choices you make with your dollar — and your body.
Why CureCBD?
- 100% Natural, Organic Ingredients
- Zero Parabens, Alcohols, or PEGs
- Lab-Tested for Purity and Potency
- Plant-Powered Preservation Only
- Formulated with CBD Isolate + Botanicals That Heal
Your skin deserves more than a chemical compromise. It deserves relief, protection, and nourishment—the way nature intended.
Try Our Cleanest Bestsellers:
- Miracle Cream (5,000mg & 10,000mg)
- Icy Relief Roller (84ml)
- Focus Tincture (CBD + Plant Extracts)
- Pet Tincture (All-Natural Formula)
Sources:
- Darbre, P. D., et al. (2004). Concentrations of parabens in human breast tumours. Journal of Applied Toxicology.
- Hiki, N., et al. (2005). Testicular toxicity of phenoxyethanol. Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology.
- EWG Skin Deep Database (www.ewg.org)