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Functional / Support

Butylated Hydroxyanisole

Often labeled as: BHA (Preservative)

๐Ÿšจ CAUTION: The controversial, endocrine-disrupting preservative.

โš ๏ธ
Overall Safety Caution
๐Ÿคฐ
Pregnancy Safety Avoid
๐Ÿ•ณ๏ธ
Comedogenic (0-5) 0 / 5
โšก
Irritancy (0-5) 2 / 5

๐Ÿ”ฌ How It Actually Works

A synthetic antioxidant used to prevent fats and oils from going rancid in cosmetics and foods. (Note: Do not confuse this with Beta Hydroxy Acid / Salicylic Acid). BHA is highly controversial and classified as a reasonably anticipated human carcinogen by several health agencies.

๐Ÿ’– Why your skin loves it

Stops lipsticks and thick creams from smelling like old oil.

๐Ÿ’ก Pro Tip

Check your labels carefully to ensure "BHA" means Salicylic Acid, not this preservative.

โš–๏ธ Myth vs. Fact

The Myth

All BHA is the acne-clearing acid.

The Science

In the preservative section of the label, BHA stands for Butylated Hydroxyanisole, a highly contested chemical.