In the past, reports estimated that women consumed several pounds of lipstick over the course of their lives. Although this myth has recently been debunked, it is well-known that women do accidentally consume a small amount of lipstick. For this reason, it is crucial to be concerned with the ingredients in your lipstick.
Read on to learn the potentially harmful ingredients contained in many standard lipsticks and how to avoid them.
Common Chemicals Used in Lipsticks and Their Health Concerns
Traditional lipsticks are packed with harmful chemicals, additives, preservatives, and harsh substances that add lasting, smooth color to lips. Following is a list of standard ingredients, the purpose they serve, and why you may want to consider avoiding them.
Mineral Oils – These substances (Paraffin, Petrolatum, Cera Microcristallina, Ozokerite, or Paraffinum Liquidum) are derived from fossil fuels and are included in lipsticks as a form of moisture.
Parabens – These synthetic compounds serve as preservatives in many lipstick formulas. Parabens have been linked to negative effects on a variety of systems in the body since they act as hormone disruptors and still are used in many cosmetics products.
Silicones – These are included to increase the smoothness of application and to increase the spreadability of the formula. Silicones are alos used in haircare products , such as Shampoos, Hairsprays and Conditioners.
Liquid Microplastic – Many lipsticks still contain microplastisc, especially in the form of polyethylene. Especially with a product that is applied so close to the mouth, you have to know how high the risk of swallowing plastic. You can find Polyethylene also in Face Wash, Shower Gels, and Body Lotions.
Lead and Other Heavy Metals – Lead, a neurotoxin that has been linked to learning and behavioral issues, is often found in commercial lipsticks. Along with lead, lipsticks sometimes contain a variety of other heavy metals such as chromium and aluminum. Companies do not intentionally add these metals but they end up in formulas due to contamination.
Chemical dyes – These dyes provide lipstick with their color shades and add lasting pigment to the lips.
Fragrances – Synthetic fragrances are designed to give lipstick a pleasant scent but it may come at a price to your health. Artificial fragrances often hide phthalates – compounds that are linked to a host of health issues. As with parabens, they act as endocrine disruptors.
Titanium Dioxide: European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has rated titanium dioxide as “not safe”. Find out more about Lipsticks without Titanium Dioxide here.
How to Avoid Chemicals in Your Lipstick
If you love brightening your lips and adding a pop of color and shine but want to avoid the possible health effects of conventional lip colors, the good news is that a growing number of non toxic lipstick brands are creating healthier alternatives. These companies utilize natural ingredients to create chemical free lipstick that is better for both your health and the planet.
In addition to being safer for your health and the environment, natural ingredients offer significant benefits. Examples of popular ingredients in chemical free lipstick and their benefits include:
Natural oils such as sunflower, coconut, castor oil, and more – Offer lips moisture and shine
Shea butter or avocado butter – Provide a dose of hydration and nourishment
Vitamins – Helps promote healthy, resilient lips
Beeswax – Creates a protective barrier to seal in moisture
Mineral-based pigments – Offer vibrant color without toxic dyes
Botanical extracts – Promote nourished lips
List of Chemical Free Lipstick Brands
100% Pure – with pomegranate oil, shea butter, colored from fruit pigments
Au Naturale – 100% natural, cruelty-free, vegan, made in the USA
Axiology – with pure organic ingredients like avocado butter and coconut oil
Benecos – with Castor Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, Carnauba Wax and Beeswax, from Germany
Burt’s Bees – 100% naturally moisturizing ingredients like moringa and raspberry seed oils
Ecco Bella – vegetable waxes, oils, and mineral pigments
EXVO – Avocado, Coconut oil, Mango, Cocoa & Capuacu, made in the USA
Lavera – 100% natural lipstick, all natural pigments blended with organic flower extracts, Germany
Living Nature – Certified Organic 100% Natural. Organic Coconut Oil, Beeswax and Carnauba Wax
Logona – certified organic Lipsticks from Germany
Lotus Organics – 100% Natural and Organic, Gluten, Cruelty Free, made in USA
Honeybee Gardens – with coconut oil, shea butter, sesame seed oil and pure natural preservatives
Nudus – with Shea Butter, Kiwi Seed Oil and Avocado Oil, Cruelty Free, Non-GMO, Gluten Free
Skin2Spirit – with organic butters, botanical extracts and essential plant oils
Vapour Organic Beauty
W3LL PEOPLE – 100% Natural Ingredients, rich, organic omega oils , made in the USA
Final Thoughts
Traditional lipsticks may be great for your lips but harmful to your health. The most important aspect of buying a lipstick is reading the ingredient label carefully. Consider testing out healthier, non toxic lipstick brands that steer clear of questionable ingredients.
