Ingredient Name
Natural or Synthetic?
How Safe Is It?
Can It Be Organic?
Learn more






Salicylic Acid




It can increase skin absorption of all ingredients in a product so you'd want to make sure when it is present the other ingredients are safe and all natural. A low possibility of causign skin Irritation in some animals. It can help to unclog pores and help with dandruff.



They can also be organic!









Ethanol acts as a penetration enhancer for many chemicals.
Methanol (if that is the additive) has links to moderate non-reproductive organ system toxicity.
Also called denatured alcohol.



(Quillaja saponaria wood extract)






It also has strong links to dry and irritated skin for dogs with sensitive skin.






When mixed with odium levulinate, it can be an effective anti-fungal.
Sodium Benzoate



It is an effective preservative that prevents the growth of molds and bacteria.
When sodium benzoate is formulated with vitamin C or citric acid, it may form benzene. (a known carcinogen). This reaction is pH dependent and very unlikely but is noted.
It does have links to allergies and there is limited evidence that it may have links to endocrine disruption.






A detergent cleansing agent that produces a lot of foam.
The name may be misleading, but sodium C14-16 olefin sulfonate is not a sulfate. Sulfonate is related to but not the same as sulfates. In a sulfonate the sulfur is linked direct to a carbon atom where as a sulfate is linked directly to the carbon chain via an oxygen atom.
They do however have similar qualities when it comes to propensity of being irritating to the skin.
It also has links to organ system toxicity.



A salt that helps to break down dirt and oil from the hair and skin and helps to regulate the pH. It can also be used to soften hard water.



Sodium citrate






It is safe and non-toxic! Extremely hydrating, a great moisturizer that helps to provide a protective layer, retaining moisture in the skin while allowing the skin to breathe. As a mild oil, it is very good for inflamed or irritated skin, and on dogs with skin sensitivities.






Generally regarded as safe.






Generally regarded as safe.



If it is used outside of saponification, the safety rating would need to change to be less safe.






It is safe and non-toxic! A great cleanser and an excellent moisturizer. Jojoba also contains fatty acids that help to rejuvenate and restore dry skin.
Sodium Lauroamphoacetate



Sodium Lauryl Glucoside Carboxylate


















Has high concern of contamination from nitrosamines (which are linked to cancer).
Sodium Levulinate



The salt of levulinic acid, a synthetic acid. While a fairly new ingredient, it is thought to be safe.






It is safe and non-toxic! Rich in vitamins, minerals, natural fatty acids, and antioxidants. Known for its ability to nourish, rejuvenate, and protect the skin.



It is safe and non-toxic!












It is suspected to be an environmental toxin (ecotoxic) so it is not safe for our planet.