Ingredient Safety

Parabens are preservatives used to keep health and beauty products fresh by preventing the growth of harmful bacteria. These compounds are amongst the most commonly used cosmetic preservatives in the world, and have a long history of safe use. Parabens have been extensively studied and use in cosmetic products is allowed by regulatory authorities around the world.

Short story: Our cleansers, masks, toners and scrubs are paraben-free. Our pore strips do contain the minimal amount of methylparaben required to function as a preservative, which is a safe paraben for cosmetic use.

Parabens are among the most common preservatives used in food and cosmetics. In the European Union, methylparabens are safe to use within cosmetics at specified levels as detailed in Annex V of the Cosmetic Regulations (EC) No 1223/2009.
 
For every single product we make, we follow a stringent formulation protocol to ensure our products stay free of harmful bacteria, while also keeping your skin safe and minimizing the impact on our environment. We work diligently to stay up-to-date on the latest scientific research to optimize performance and safety.
 

Sulfates are surfactants that provide the key cleansing mechanism to lift away dirt & oil. They are the ingredient that creates the foamy lather you get when you brush your teeth, or wash your hair or face. In rare cases, certain sulfates can irritate some skin types, which is why you might have heard or read about an increase in sulfate-free products.

Short story: Yes, but only Sodium Laureth Sulfates (abbreviated as SLES), which are gentler on the skin than other types of sulfates. When we do use sulfates, we only use them in products that you rinse off; therefore, the risk of irritation is very low.

Sulfates trap dirt and oils from the skin so that they can be rinsed away with water. Contrary to some Internet rumors, sulfates are proven to be safe and effective. While many Bioré cleansers are made with a non-sulfate cleansing technology, SPT (Skin Purifying Technology), we do still incorporate some sulfate agents, so if you are sensitive to sulfates, always check our label for “sodium laureth sulfate” (abbreviated as SLES).

Salicylic Acid is an ingredient that works within cosmetic cleansers to help prevent breakouts. Used at lower levels, it can act as a preservative to keep cosmetic products safe.

Short story: Yes, mainly in our cleansing products that help prevent spots.

Salicylic Acid is approved for use up to 0.5% as a preservative and up to 2.0% in cosmetic skincare products under the EU Cosmetic Regulation 1223/2009, which means there is extensive proof of its safety at this level. Recently, the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (an expert advisory panel to the European Commission) re-reviewed this ingredient and re-confirmed its safety for use in cosmetic products. It's oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate past your skin’s sebum to get really deep into your pores. Bonus: it won’t stain or bleach your washcloths or bedsheets. We use it in our blemish fighting line of cosmetic cleansing products (just look for the orange bar or orange copy on our packaging!) and as a preservative in some products.

Fragrances add that sensory smell element that gives you the full Bioré® experience. However, if you know your skin is sensitive to fragrance, it’s a good idea to check our product labels.

Short story: Yes, only the best! Anyone order an instant mood booster? Yes, please!

Every fragrance material we use is held to the same stringent standards as all other Kao ingredients to ensure a safe experience for our consumers. We collaborate with some of the top perfume houses in the world to identify and create safe, high-quality scents.

Under Annex III of the Cosmetic Regulations (EC) No 1223/2009, 26 potential fragrance allergens are required to be included at the end of each cosmetic product’s ingredient statement in the EU. Some of our products do include low levels of some of these materials. If you are sensitive to fragrances, it’s always a good idea to check our label.

Alcohol is a universal, commonly used solvent ingredient that tones, cleanses and disinfects skin. It also helps formulas mix together consistently.

Short story: Yes, in some of our products such as our Witch Hazel Pore Clarifying Toner.

Alcohol is a key cleansing ingredient used to break down skin residue like oils/sebum, as well as makeup and cleanser residue. Alcohol also provides astringency to tone the skin. When used properly in formulations like ours, alcohol is safe and effective.

Microbeads are an exfoliant found in many rinse-off cosmetics. Their use in toothpaste and skincare products have raised some environmental concerns if the microbeads contain plastic.

Short story: No, Bioré products do not contain any plastic microbeads. Bioré only uses alternative ingredients that do not fall under the definition of plastic microbeads.

For years, none of our products have contained plastic microbeads. Our Formulation Scientists purposefully design our formulas to avoid these materials while still providing the benefits and experience you expect.
 
As part of our commitment to sustainability, we are always looking for ways to improve our products to protect the environment.

Mineral oils are emollient oils used to maintain moisture levels in the skin and to impart a smooth, soft skin feel.

Short story: No. Bioré products do not use mineral oils neither in Europe nor in the U.S.

Polyethylene glycols (PEG) are thickening and emulsifying agents used in creams to help deliver and maintain moisture balance in skin.

Short story: No. Bioré tends to use non-ethoxylated glycols for humectancy and moisturizing agents.