This is what we call an ingredient when it hasn't changed much from how it occurs in the identified source material. An example of this is peppermint oil. The peppermint oil we use in our products has been removed and concentrated but it is otherwise much the same as it would be found in the peppermint leaves.

Naturally derived ingredients have been modified from their original state through additional processing.  This is generally done to improve the ingredient’s safety or efficacy. An example of this is silica. In its natural state, silica would be too abrasive, so it goes through some processing to improve the ingredient's safety.

In reviewing ingredients for our products – whether naturally sourced or derived – we do consider the preparation processes involved. And it is our practice to only allow preparation processes which support our philosophy of human and environmental health, by working strictly with verified suppliers who agree to our code of conduct.

With our Stewardship Model, we not only review the starting material(s), but also the processing steps used to obtain the ingredients we use in our products.

As examples we accept fermentation and saponification, but would not allow ethoxylation, propoxylation and quaternization.

See our full policy here.

Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that's widely recognized for its ability to prevent cavities and strengthen tooth enamel. In fact, it’s the only toothpaste ingredient approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to prevent cavities. The FDA recognizes three types of fluoride—sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluoride, and stannous fluoride—and sets standards for how much can be included in toothpaste. And if you’re not into fluoride, no worries. We offer fluoride-free options, so you can choose the best fit for your needs. We believe in giving you choices that work for you, and we trust that you’ll work with your dentist to figure out what’s best for your smile.

Carrageenan is a natural, plant-based ingredient, derived from red seaweed, that we use to give our toothpaste just the right texture. Learn more.

Curious about Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) in your toothpaste? Let’s break it down! Our SLS at Tom’s of Maine is a naturally derived ingredient from vegetables, and it helps keep oil-based and water-based ingredients mixed together perfectly. In our Tom’s of Maine natural toothpaste, it makes sure the ingredients are evenly dispersed while you brush, plus it helps rinse away food particles and debris easily.

You might have heard some myths about SLS, but here’s the truth: it has a long track record of being safe and effective. It’s often confused with Sodium Laureth Sulfate (SLES), but they’re not the same. The best part is we offer both SLS and SLS-free toothpaste options, so you can choose what works best for you. Find your perfect match and let's make brushing better together!

Aluminum is used in many antiperspirants as an active ingredient to help reduce sweating. It works by temporarily blocking pores, keeping you dry and fresh throughout the day. It’s the reason many antiperspirants are so effective at controlling sweat and odor. Learn more here. Those who do not wish to use an aluminum-containing underarm product can choose from our line of aluminum-free deodorant, which are designed to provide odor protection. Whether you choose an aluminum-based or aluminum-free product, you can trust us to have you covered. Your comfort and confidence are our priority!

You care about what goes into your products, and so do we! That’s why at Tom’s of Maine, we’re all about transparency, so you can make the best choices for you and your family. Our natural flavors and fragrances are made from a blend of extracts, oils, and other naturally sourced and derived  ingredients. And we now provide the full ingredient list of these flavors and fragrances down to the 100 parts per million (ppm) level in our products. It’s just one more way we’re putting you in the know so you can choose with confidence.

At Tom’s of Maine, we’re proud to say that the majority of our products are vegan. We’ve worked hard to find plant-based alternatives for ingredients that are often made from animal sources. If you’re looking to avoid any animal ingredients, we recommend checking the ingredient list on the package or our website for clarity. We believe in offering options that cater to all kinds of needs, so you can choose what’s right for you. Learn more: https://www.tomsofmaine.com/pages/not-in-our-products

You might notice that our deodorant base contains propylene glycol. But here's the news: it's not your typical version! We use plant-derived propylene glycol sourced from vegetable oils—not nonrenewable fossil fuels. It's part of a special system of water-loving ingredients designed to help absorb moisture and keep you dry all day long. Check out the full details here.