Ingredients Banned Under MADE SAFE USA Certification
When we pick up a skincare product, especially for our little ones, we expect it to be safe, gentle, and free from harsh chemicals. But what if “natural” or “organic” on the label isn’t always what it seems? That’s where MADE SAFE USA certification comes in. It’s one of the world’s most trusted safety standards that ensures your skincare is truly clean and free from thousands of harmful ingredients.
At Little Rituals, we are proud to be Asia’s only baby care brand with an active MADE SAFE® USA certification. This certification means our products are 100% safe for delicate skin, completely transparent in formulation, and crafted with ingredients that nurture rather than harm. Let’s dive into what this certification means and which ingredients are banned under the MADE SAFE USA standard.
What Does MADE SAFE USA Certification Mean?
MADE SAFE® USA stands for Made with Safe Ingredients, the first certification in America that screens products for ingredients known or suspected to harm human health, animals, or ecosystems.
Every certified product goes through a deep scientific screening process to ensure it’s free from over 6,500 harmful chemicals and toxins.
For parents, it’s the gold standard of safety. When you see the MADE SAFE® USA seal, it means:
- No toxic chemicals
- No harmful preservatives
- No hidden synthetic fragrance
- No ingredients linked to hormone disruption or allergies
- No compromise on safety or quality
Why Banned Ingredients Matter
Babies’ skin is thinner and more absorbent than adult skin, which means it absorbs substances faster. That’s why choosing products free from harmful ingredients is crucial.
While many brands may claim to be “natural,” MADE SAFE-certified skincare goes through verified, science-backed testing.
At Little Rituals, every product you choose is made without shortcuts or false claims. Each ingredient has a purpose, and none are there to fill space or add artificial fragrance.
Common Ingredients Banned Under MADE SAFE USA Certification
Here are some major categories of ingredients banned under the MADE SAFE USA certification that you’ll never find in Little Rituals products:
1. Parabens
Parabens are synthetic preservatives used to extend product shelf life. Studies link them to hormonal imbalance and potential reproductive harm. MADE SAFE certification bans all parabens, including methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben.
At Little Rituals: We use natural, safe preservation methods instead of chemical preservatives, keeping our formulations gentle yet stable.
2. Phthalates
Phthalates are often used in fragrances to make the scent last longer. They are known endocrine disruptors and may affect fertility and child development.
At Little Rituals: We never use synthetic fragrances. Our natural oils and extracts create a mild, pleasant aroma without the risks.
3. Sulphates (SLS/SLES)
Sulphates like Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) can cause dryness, irritation, and strip the skin of natural oils.
At Little Rituals: Our cleansers are sulphate-free. We use gentle, plant-derived surfactants that clean effectively while maintaining the skin’s natural moisture balance.
4. Synthetic Fragrances and Dyes
Artificial fragrances and dyes may contain undisclosed chemical blends that trigger allergies or skin irritation. MADE SAFE strictly prohibits these ingredients.
At Little Rituals: We let nature do the talking, our products carry the mild, natural scent of their botanical ingredients.
5. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Agents
These are strong preservatives often found in lotions and shampoos. They are linked to skin sensitivity and are recognized as human carcinogens.
At Little Rituals: You will never find formaldehyde or its derivatives. Our commitment to clean, toxin-free baby care means zero compromise.
6. Mineral Oils and Petroleum-Based Ingredients
Petroleum by-products like mineral oil or paraffin can clog pores and prevent skin from breathing. They also come from non-renewable sources.
At Little Rituals: We use high-quality, wood-pressed organic oils for baby like almond, coconut, and sesame, which deeply nourish the skin and promote healthy cell regeneration.
7. PEGs (Polyethylene Glycols)
PEGs are used as thickeners or softeners in cosmetics. However, they can be contaminated with carcinogenic compounds like ethylene oxide.
At Little Rituals: We skip PEGs entirely. Instead, our formulations rely on safe, plant-based alternatives.
8. Triclosan and Triclocarban
Common in antibacterial soaps, these ingredients are banned for their potential to disrupt hormones and harm aquatic life.
At Little Rituals: Our cleansers are naturally antibacterial thanks to botanical extracts that clean gently without causing imbalance.
9. Oxybenzone and Chemical UV Filters
Many sunscreens use oxybenzone, which may cause skin irritation and hormone disruption.
At Little Rituals: We rely on natural mineral-based sun filters that provide safe, broad-spectrum protection without the toxic load.
Why MADE SAFE-Certified Skincare Is the Future
The skincare industry is shifting towards safety, science, and sustainability, and MADE SAFE-certified skincare leads that transformation.
Parents today demand proof, not promises. Certification provides that assurance, real data showing that what touches your baby’s skin is truly clean.
At Little Rituals, we go beyond compliance. Our products are tested in both laboratories and real life to ensure they deliver what they promise, protection, nourishment, and purity.
We disclose every ingredient, its purpose, and even the exact percentage of actives used. Because you deserve to know exactly what’s going on your child’s skin.
The Little Rituals Promise
- Zero Compromise: Every product meets the highest safety and performance standards.
- Total Transparency: We share every ingredient and its role.
- Clinically Tested: Dermatologically approved and safe for sensitive skin.
- Sustainably Sourced: Ingredients that care for your baby and the planet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What is MADE SAFE USA certification?
It’s a safety certification that bans over 6,500 harmful chemicals from skincare and baby products, ensuring only safe, non-toxic ingredients are used.
Q2. Why is MADE SAFE certification important for baby products?
Babies have delicate skin that easily absorbs chemicals. MADE SAFE ensures every ingredient is tested and proven safe for infants.
Q3. Are all “natural” products MADE SAFE certified?
No. Only products that pass MADE SAFE’s strict testing for human and environmental safety earn certification.
Q4. What ingredients are banned by MADE SAFE?
It bans parabens, sulphates, phthalates, PEGs, formaldehyde, synthetic fragrances, and many more toxins.
Q5. How does Little Rituals meet MADE SAFE standards?
We undergo rigorous ingredient screening and testing to ensure our formulations meet MADE SAFE’s strict safety requirements.
Q6. Can adults use Little Rituals products?
Absolutely. Our formulations are gentle and nourishing for all skin types, babies and adults alike.
Q7. Are MADE SAFE-certified products also eco-friendly?
Yes. They’re not only safe for humans but also for the planet, ensuring sustainability from sourcing to packaging.
Q8. How can I identify MADE SAFE-certified products?
Look for the MADE SAFE® seal on the packaging, it guarantees the product is free from thousands of harmful chemicals.
