Product Development and Formulation

Bath & Body Works does not use formaldehyde as an ingredient; however, our personal care products may contain low levels of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives. These formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are commonly used in personal care products to prevent microorganisms and bacterial growth. While formaldehyde-releasing preservatives are safe, we understand that some people prefer products without these ingredients.

The easiest way to identify formaldehyde-releasing preservatives in our products is to look for names such as DMDM Hydantoin and Diazolidinyl Urea on our labels.

Isothiazolinones are a family of preservatives commonly used in consumer products. Methylisothiazolinone (MI) or combination of methylchloroisothiazolinone and methylisothiazolinone (MCI/MI) are two forms commonly used in rinse-off products, such as shower gel and hand soaps to prevent bacterial growth.

While MI and MCI/MI are safe, we understand that some people avoid products with these ingredients due to potential allergies. The easiest way to avoid this is to look for methylisothiazolinone or methylchloroisothiazolinone on our labels.

Parabens are one of the most common preservatives used in beauty products, food and drugs and are made from an ingredient also found naturally in numerous fruits and vegetables. Select parabens have been approved by major international regulatory authorities for use in personal care products to prevent bacteria and mold growth. Bath & Body Works uses approved parabens as a preservative in some of our personal care products.

While parabens are safe, we understand that some people avoid products with parabens. The easiest way to identify parabens in our products is to look for names such as methylparaben, ethylparaben and propylparaben on our labels.

Sulfates help create foaming and easy-to-rinse shower gels and hand soaps. Bath & Body Works uses sulfates in some of our rinse-off products in accordance with industry standards. While sulfates used in our products are safe, we understand that some people prefer products without sulfates, and we offer alternatives to meet their needs.

The easiest way to identify sulfates in our products is to look for names such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES) and Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate.

Microbeads are tiny pieces of plastic (5 mm or less).

Bath & Body Works stopped using microbeads in all of our products in 2016. In addition, we do not use plastic glitter in any of our products. Microbeads were banned in 2017 by the U.S. FDA after high concentrations of microbeads were detected in waterways.

Because some studies have shown that triclosan – a preservative – may have some health concerns, Bath & Body Works does not use it in any of our products.

All Bath & Body Works candle wicks are lead-free. The wicks are either cotton, cotton/paper or rayon. For each fragrance, the best wick choice varies; we determine which wick is used to ensure the best burn quality and safety.