SLS

Stands for sodium lauryl sulphate, a cleansing agent that can irritate the skin in high concentrations.

Parabens

A group of preservatives added to stop bacterial contamination of products. Concerns have been raised about possible links to breast cancer, but research is inconclusive so far.

Paraffin

A waxy, petroleum-based thickener used in some creams.

Diethanolamine

Aka DEA - a solvent present in a variety of ingredients in foaming products. Studies on lab animals demonstrated a link between DEA and cancer, but no human link has been proven.

PEG

Stands for polyethylene glycol, a compound used as a stabiliser and blending agent.

Propylene glycol

A chemical compound used to stop cosmetics melting or freezing.