We all want to do our best to take care of our skin, which is why it’s so important to make sure that we know what kind of ingredients are in our skincare and cosmetic products.
As a conscious makeup user, I want to know what kind of ingredients may or may not be safe, how they help our skin, and what kind of big-name brands make for the best skincare products.
Finding out what ingredients are in a skincare product can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t need to be! With a little bit of research and knowledge, you can discover the answers to all your questions about the ingredients of skincare products and make an informed decision about the products you use.
Ways I check out ingredients of a product you bought
If you’ve been trying out different skincare products and want to find out exactly what’s in them, you have a few different options for doing just that.
One of the easiest ways to check out the ingredients of a product you bought is to read the list of ingredients on the back of the packaging. Sometimes companies will list all of the ingredients, so you can make sure that you’re not allergic to anything in the product.
Another way to check out what’s in a product is to look it up online. Most brands will have their products listed on their website, and you can find out what ingredients are listed on the product page. Doing a quick search of a product online will also show you reviews of the product, which can give you some insights into what other people think of the product and why it might work for your skin.
You can also use an app that can help you scan the label and see what the ingredients are. Many of these apps will break the ingredients down into category, showing you if it has any potential ingredients that could cause allergic reactions.
How to read skincare ingredients list
Reading the ingredients list of a skincare product can feel like a daunting task. But with a little knowledge and some practice, you’ll be able to decipher even the most complex of ingredient lists in no time.
To start, you’ll want to take a close look at the packaging; the ingredients are usually printed in small type not too far from the product’s name.
Once you have the list of ingredients, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with the names of the different ingredients. Look for terms that look familiar, like “water” or “glycerin”.
This will help you quickly pick out the main components of the skincare product.
After you know the different ingredients, it’s time to assess their individual qualities. Certain ingredients like Vitamin E can provide antioxidant benefits while others might have potential irritants like fragrances or salicylic acid.
Keep in mind that ingredients are listed in order of prevalence, with the most abundant ingredients at the top.
In some cases, you may come across unfamiliar terms. But don’t worry! Companies are required to list their ingredients in accordance with the cosmetic regulations of their country, so you can translate these terms and research them on your own.
A quick search on Restorbio should do the job.
Is there an app or website to see which ingredients are
Yes there are dozens of websites dedicated to helping people find out which ingredients are in skincare products. These websites not only provide a comprehensive list of all of the ingredients, but they also provide valuable information about any potential side effects that the ingredients may cause. This is particularly useful for anyone who may be allergic to certain ingredients.
Check out our Popular Skincare REVIEWS below.
- Estee lauder advanced night repair ingredients
- Hanasui vitamin c serum ingredients
- Bio oil ingredients
- Eucerin aquaphor healing ointment ingredients
- Acnes vitamin c serum ingredients
- Bepantol Baby ingredients
- Natur e anti aging eye cream ingredients
- il makiage woke up like this ingredients
- Sheer joy sunscreen ingredients
- Olaplex no 4 shampoo ingredients
- Avoskin-miraculous-refining-toner ingredients
- TRESemmé hairspray ingredients
- e-l-f-poreless-putty-primer ingredients
- Ivory original scent bar soap ingredients
- Cetaphil gentle-skin cleanser ingredients
- Olay regenerist micro-sculpting cream ingredients
- Janssen retin a tretinoina crema ingredients
- Bayer bepantol derma ingredients
- Aveeno daily moisturizing lotion ingredients
- Vaseline protecting jelly ingredients
- Okeeffes working hands hand-cream ingredients
- Kiehls ultra facial cream ingredients
- Aloe pura hudgel aloe-vera ingredients
- Ponds dry-skin cream ingredients
- Eucerin original healing cream ingredients
- Cerave moisturizing cream ingredients
- Cetaphil moisturizing lotion ingredients
- Avon skin so soft original bath oil spray ingredients
- Mederma advanced scar gel ingredients
- Ponds dry-skin cream ingredients
Will skincare companies list all ingredients?
When it comes to shopping for the right skincare product, we all want to make sure that we are using the most effective product for our skin.
One of the ways to do this is to know exactly what ingredients are in the product. But, with thousands of products on the market, it can quickly become hard to identify which one is the right fit for our individual needs.
This begs the question: will skincare companies list all the ingredients in their products? The answer to this question is both yes and no. While some companies do list out all the ingredients found in their products, there are also others that are not as transparent. These companies may only list several key ingredients, with the remainder covered up in blanketing terms like ‘parfum’, ‘natural fragrances’ or ‘preservatives’.
Male cosmetics users also face an additional layer of difficulty when figuring out what’s in their skincare products as ‘unisex’ skincare companies are less likely to list their ingredients than those specifically geared toward men.
This means that consumers have no way of knowing which of the hidden ingredients have the potential to cause irritation or strip the skin of its natural oils. Thankfully, the beauty industry is now under increased pressure to increase the transparency of their products.
Many companies now list out their ingredients online or are actively in the process of reformulating their existing products to make them safer for consumers.
In the meantime, it is important for consumers to be vigilant about researching any new skincare products before used, so that they can make sure that the ingredients listed are the best for their skin needs.
Which skincare ingredients to avoid
When it comes to finding out the ingredients of a skincare product, it’s important to be aware of which ones to avoid. There are several ingredients that can be potentially hazardous to your health and can cause irritating reactions for your skin.
These potentially harmful ingredients include fragrances, parabens, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, phthalates, synthetic dyes, and some sulfates.
Fragrance, commonly found in skincare, can be especially irritating for those with sensitivities. Because it’s often synthetic, it can cause inflammation, redness, and burning sensations.
Meanwhile, parabens, which are used as preservatives, have been shown to disrupt hormone activity. Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives have been linked to skin allergies and irritations, and can be carcinogenic if found in high concentrations. Synthetic dyes, like those found in some cleansers, moisturizers, and hair dyes, can aggravate rashes and cause further skin sensitivities.
Fragrances
The raw odor of some beauty products can be a little strong for some consumers, and that’s why some companies opt to add fragrance compounds. However, there’s at least 3,000 compounds that are used to enhance a product’s smell. You should be wary of fragrance in your skincare as these can cause allergies and asthma attacks. To help you determine whether a natural beauty product has added fragrances, you can instead check the ingredient list for phthalates — substances that are used to help preserve the longevity of the fragrance compounds.
Talc
Talc can be commonly found in eye shadows and face powders. Usually, this substance is made from silicon, oxygen, hydrogen, and magnesium. While talc is usually safe to use on the skin, there have been instances where huge companies have had problems purifying talc. This can be a problem, as unpurified talc may be contaminated with asbestos, a highly carcinogenic substance.
Parabens
Despite being excellent preservatives that inhibit microbial growth, parabens have really bad effects on the human body. In fact, Breast Cancer Prevention Partners note that parabens are linked to breast cancer cell growth and can even block the effects of chemotherapy drugs. Furthermore, a few types of parabens have been banned by the European Commission due to their harmful effects, although these are still allowed in products in the United States.
Petroleum
From petroleum, manufacturers can derive sulfates, which are used to thicken, soften, and even act as a foaming agent for beauty products. Other than being by-products of harvesting natural gas, sulfates should be avoided as it’s a harsh cleanser that can damage your skin and hair. There’s also some evidence that shows that petroleum can’t be metabolized by the body and can speed up the formation of skin cancer tumors.
Should you be worry on Ingredients of Cosmetic Products?
Although researching the ingredients of skincare and cosmetic products may seem intimidating and time consuming, the rewards are worth it. Knowing the ingredients in the products that we are applying to our skin gives us an understanding of our personal needs, helps us make informed decisions, and ultimately leads to healthier, glowing skin. With the right tips and tricks, anyone can become a skincare expert and know exactly what’s contained in any product.
How to Choose the Right Natural Beauty Products For You
There’s been a surge of natural beauty brands and products in recent years. As more and more people become conscious of the power of natural beauty, manufacturers try to cope with the rising demand by releasing products that are labeled as “natural” or “organic.”
But as the market is quickly getting oversaturated with natural beauty products, how can you make the best choice on what’ll work for you?In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into why natural beauty products are better for you and how you can build a natural beauty routine.
Why Go Natural Skincare Products?
There’s a couple of reasons why it’s a smart move to adopt a natural beauty routine. For one, natural beauty products have a lower environmental impact compared to those that are manufactured conventionally. One ingredient that you can find in non-clean beauty products are palm oil derivatives.
From fatty oil to glycerin, palm oil derivatives are sought out for their moisturizing and foaming properties. However, much of palm oil is not sourced sustainably. The Independent points out that the demand for palm oil has created massive plantations that have affected local wildlife. Palm oil is only one unsustainably sourced ingredient that you can find in conventional beauty products, so it’s safer to bet on natural products.
Another reason why it’s better to go natural is that this type of beauty product has a lower risk of having adverse effects when used. As natural beauty products only source the purest ingredients, there’s a lesser chance for your skin to get inflamed or irritated, which can lead to breakouts. What’s more, some natural beauty products have nourishing ingredients like Vitamins A, C, and E to help your skin look more radiant and glowing.
Read Between The List
Once you’re familiar with the ingredients to avoid, you can now scan for natural beauty products — and even look for some that feature a star natural ingredient. This can be a great identifier if you’re finding it hard to find natural beauty products.
What are the Main Ingredients of Makeup? The Hidden Ingredients You Need to Know
Do you need to know what is makeup made of? Makeup is made of different ingredients that can be natural or synthetic. The makeup products applied to the skin, hair, or nails are typically a mixture of several ingredients.
This can include fragrances, pigments, dyes, fillers, preservatives, and moisturizers. The ingredients will depend on the product applied to the skin.
Most makeup products contain a combination of many different ingredients, some which may be harmful to your health. Let’s look at some of the most common ingredients used in cosmetics and their health effects.
What Is A Cosmetic Makeup?
A cosmetic is defined in Australia by the Industrial Chemical (Notification and Assessment) Act (1989) as “a substance or preparation intended to be placed in contact with any external body part” (including the mouth and teeth).
Cosmetics are used to clean, perfume, protect, and modify the appearance or odor of our bodies. On the other hand, therapeutics are products that claim to modify a bodily process, prevent, diagnose, and cure any disease, ailment, or defect.
This distinction is vital because shampoos, deodorants, and antiperspirants fall under cosmetics.
What Is Makeup Made Of?
Solvent
Solvents dissolve other substances, make a matte texture and remove excess sebum.
Water
Water is the most common ingredient in skincare and makeup. Water is an essential component of the skin and is vital for its proper functioning. You will see water listed first in many products’ ingredient lists.
This is because it is often the most concentrated ingredient. Water used in skincare products is free from toxins, pollutants, and microorganisms. It can be deionized or demineralized, distilled, or purified.
Water is a versatile and necessary solvent for cosmetics and personal care products. Water dissolves or delivers many beneficial ingredients to the skin, such as cleansing agents and conditioning agents. It also helps to disperse and distribute products evenly.
It works its magic to replenish vital moisture. This is a huge benefit considering that water is the most significant component of our skin cells.
Water is used in nearly every type of makeup, from eyes to lips to face. It can be used in foundations, blushes, and bronzers, as well as eye shadows and lipsticks if you look closely.
Abrasive
Abrasives remove materials from the skin, polish skin, and enhance shine.
Silica
Silica is a compound made of silicon and oxygen. This multi-functional ingredient is used to create a long-lasting, non-caking makeup product.
Because it can absorb moisture and sweat and prevent light reflection, this ingredient is called an absorbent. This is a requirement in comprehensive applications.
FDA approved it for use as an anti-ticking agent. It creates a smooth, clean finish. It gives products a richer texture and a creamy texture.
Because it produces a pleasing texture and non-cakey appearance, silica is mainly used in eye products such as blush, mascara, and other cosmetics.
Humectants
Humectants retain and hold moisture while also preventing moisture loss.
Hyaluronic Acid
Hyaluronic acid, a sugar molecule naturally found on the skin’s surface, is a strong hydrating compound and a key ingredient in many cosmetic and skincare products. It holds water in the skin, allowing excellent epidermis suppleness.
It is an excellent base because it is a natural moisturizer with excellent water-binding abilities.
Hyaluronic acid improves skin moisture and prevents water loss. This helps to reduce wrinkle appearance. It can still deliver active ingredients such as vitamin C to the skin.
This specialized ingredient makes it possible to use almost no other lubricants or emollients in a product formulation. This ingredient gives skin a smoother, more natural appearance to already rough skin. It also significantly improves skin texture.
This powerful ingredient is often used in anti-aging preparations that provide deep hydration. It can also be used in cream- and serum-based foundations and blushes.
Glycerin
Glycerin (also known as Glycerol) is a well-known and widely-used humectant in cosmetics, personal care products, and other areas. Glycerin is a yellow or colorless tacky sugar alcohol, which can be extracted from natural sources or manufactured.
Because it is easily dissolved in alcohol and water, it acts as a solvent and is used in skincare to ensure compatibility with other ingredients.
This ingredient is well-known for its healing, soothing, and hydrating properties. It protects against irritation and deeply moisturizes dry, flaky skin. It draws out water from the skin to breathe fully and absorb its natural oils.
This component is known to have a cooling and refreshing effect on the skin. It is safe and highly effective. The skin is left soft, smooth, and hydrated to the perfect level.
Glycerin helps hold together pressed colors for eye shadows and encourages the easy application of liquid eye colors. It also softens the skin in foundations, bronzers, and blushes.
Opacifiers
An opacifier reduces the transparency and translucency of cosmetics.
Titanium Dioxide
Titanium Dioxide, a non-chemical SPF contributor, is made from minerals. This absorbent, odorless ingredient stays on the skin, scattering UV light to protect it from damaging UVA/UVB rays.
This all-natural mineral is used first and foremost as a physical sunscreen. It protects against UVA (broad spectrum) and UVB (wide range). You can combine it with synthetic sunscreens to increase the Sun Protection Factor (SPF).
This reduces the possibility of allergies or irritations caused by excessive use of chemical sunscreens.
Titanium Dioxide can also give cosmetics a transparent, luxurious look. It can also be an opacifying ingredient to give cosmetics a rich, transparent feel. It can provide flawless coverage and act as a base for pigments.
This ingredient is commonly found in foundations, blushes, bronzers, and moisturizers. It’s also used in eyeshadow formulations and lipsticks.
Iron Oxide
Iron Oxides, which are naturally occurring mineral deposits, are used in makeup. They are safe for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
Iron Oxides are commonly available in various colors, including red, orange, and black. They are impervious to moisture and smudge-resistant. They also have great staying power and hold. They produce rich, vibrant pigments that give you a genuinely vibrant finish.
Iron oxides can be found in many organic and natural makeup products. This organic compound adds color to foundations, powders, mascaras, eyeliner, and eyeshadows, as well as lipsticks.
Mica
Mica is used in cosmetics as a coloring agent and texturizer. Mica is a named group for several silicates, ground minerals that share similar physical properties but have different chemical arrangements.
You will see various colors in it, including black, pale green, brown, and even black.
This mineral is safe and natural. The shimmery appearance of this mineral gives it a natural glow and adds a subtle glow to any color. Mineral makeup is natural-looking, easy to use, and luminous. It is easy to apply and glides on the skin.
It can be mixed with ingredients like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide to cover blemishes and other imperfections.
Mica’s versatility and consistency make it versatile. Mica can also be used in powdered form or pressed powder form. It can even be mixed with other agents to make a gel, oil cream, liquid, or gel.
Emollients
Emollients soften and smoothen the skin. Emollients can be oils with an oily texture that acts as a barrier to moisture loss.
Dimethicone
Dimethicone, a slippery silicone made from sand, is one example. It is also known as a silicon-based silicone polymer. This means that it is a large molecule composed of many smaller units bonded together. There are many grades of silicone.
Cosmetic-grade silicones have a smooth, spreadable texture that is elegant and silky. Dimethicone, which is FDA-approved and non-comedogenic, is a highly desirable ingredient. It can deliver active ingredients to the product and instantly smooth out imperfections.
This ingredient is used in personal care products as an anti-foaming, skin protector, and skin conditioner. It gives products a luxurious feel, slip, and lubricity. You can use it to reduce the skin-irritating effects of creams by immediately applying them.
When used in more significant quantities, it soothes and protects from moisture loss. It also improves product flowability and spreadability and makes an excellent waterproofing material for sunscreen creams.
It helps to reduce the greasiness that is often present in high-SPF formulas while still allowing the skin to breathe.
Dimethicone can be found in almost all cosmetics and skincare products. It is most commonly found in foundation, eyeshadow, eyeliner, and facial powder.
Cera Alba (Beeswax)
The clear liquid is beeswax, a nutritionally rich animal wax that bees secrete. There are two types of beeswax: bleached and yellow. The significant elements of beeswax are esters (which make up 70%), free wax acids, and hydrocarbons.
Beeswax has many skin benefits, including being completely safe and non-toxic. It has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti-allergenic properties. Beeswax can be used as a thickener and an emollient.
However, it also has emulsifying qualities, making it an excellent ingredient for cosmetic formulations.
Beeswax is most well-known for its healing properties. It is most effective when it is added to oil or water emulsions. This gives it a smooth texture and consistency. Beeswax is an excellent emollient and supports moisturizers. It protects skin from the sun and has water repellent properties.
Beeswax can be mixed with other ingredients to support their functions and provide permanence on skin and lips. This ultra-nourishing ingredient seals in moisture and protects skin against environmental factors. It has antiseptic, healing, and softening properties.
Alcohol
Different types of alcohol are used in cosmetics.
SD Alcohol (specially Denatured) evaporates quickly, leaving active ingredients on the skin’s surface.
Fatty alcohols, which are made of fatty acids, can be used as emollients or thickeners and carrying agents for other ingredients.
Cetyl Alcohol and Stearyl Alcohol are also common in everyday makeup products.
Alcohol attracts and binds water to retain moisture in the skin. It can also repel water to create a protective barrier. It also delivers other active ingredients to the skin, which helps drive them further down and provides a bounty in benefits.
Alcohol improves skin absorption by creating a smoother texture and creamier consistency.
It can also dissolve oil and tighten pores, leaving your skin looking young and smooth.
Lightweight alcohols are well-known for their antiseptic, stringent, fat, and lipid solvent qualities, while heavier emollients are used for their occlusive, lubricating, and lubricating capabilities.
Although some people believe alcohol can dry the skin, it isn’t harmful and has many benefits.
Alcohol is used in many cosmetic products due to its antiseptic properties. There are many alcohols, including Alcohol Denat. In foundations, blushes, and bronzers.
Are Makeups Dangerous?
A little controversy can generate media buzz. Over the past decade, there have been numerous reports about toxic chemicals in cosmetics (lead mercury, parabens) and the dangers these substances pose to the public.
Are consumers to be concerned? These claims are supported by credible, published scientific research. Or have they been misinterpreted or exaggerated? Let’s have a look overview below!
Parabens
Parabens are chemicals commonly used in cosmetic, food, and therapeutic products. Para-hydroxybenzoic (PHBA) is the source of their synthesis. This acid can be found naturally in many fruits, vegetables, and other plants.
Parabens come in several forms: methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben and isobutylparaben. Parabens are the most commonly used preservative in personal-care products. They are cost-effective and extremely effective at keeping your products free from mold and bacteria.
Parabens were discovered in cosmetics after Dr. Philippa Darbre of the University of Reading, England, conducted a study and found that 18 of 20 breast cancer tissue samples contained parabens.
Parabens can weakly mimic estrogen’s actions, leading to tumor growth. Parabens were found in breast tumors and reported by the media to prove that parabens cause breast cancer. This was false.
Parabens are a common ingredient in breast cancer, but the study did not find any evidence to prove that they caused it or contributed to its growth.
Because breast tumors are characterized by a high blood supply, any chemical found in the bloodstream will probably also be found in the tumor.
Dr. Darbre later stated to the media that she had not claimed that breast cancer was caused by the presence of parabens in her 2004 study.
Numerous studies have been conducted worldwide to determine the safety of parabens. These studies have repeatedly shown that parabens can be safely metabolized, broken down, and harmlessly excreted from the body.
Parabens in cosmetics are safe, according to both Australian and international science communities.
Some companies have introduced Paraben-free products in response to consumer demand. Consumers can buy these products if they are concerned.
Aluminum
Aluminum in antiperspirants and deodorants can also be linked to cancer concerns. Numerous news outlets reported in the 2000s that antiperspirants containing aluminum were linked to breast cancer.
Similar reports linked the use of antiperspirants containing aluminum to the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. Despite multiple studies, these supposed connections have not been proven scientifically.
To reduce sweating, aluminum works to block sweat ducts. This prevents us from releasing toxins and causing them to build up in our lymph glands. Breast cancer tumors don’t originate in the lymph nodes.
They start in the breast and then travel to the lymph glands later. Another study showed no difference in the levels of aluminum between cancerous tissue and surrounding tissues.
There is currently no direct link between breast cancer and the use of aluminum-containing underarm products.
Likewise, studies have shown no relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and deodorant/antiperspirant use. Humans are constantly exposed to aluminum via food, water, and packaging.
Both Alzheimer’s Society (US) and Alzheimer’s Australia claim no link between environmental aluminum absorption and Alzheimer’s disease.
These findings have led some manufacturers to produce aluminum-free products for those still concerned.
Triclosan
Triclosan was initially developed to combat bacteria in hospitals. It is primarily used as a scrub. Its usefulness has led to it being added to many consumer products, including toothpaste, deodorant, and cosmetics.
Triclosan can also be used as a pesticide. However, it can sometimes break down into potentially harmful chemicals like dioxins.
After findings by the National Academy of Sciences (US), which noted an increase in levels of Triclosan in the environment, and its increasing use in everyday products, Triclosan made headlines in 2000.
Researchers at the University of California discovered that prolonged triclosan exposure could cause liver fibrosis in mice and cancer in lab animals. Studies have also shown that triclosan may disrupt hormones, impair muscle contraction and decrease bacterial resistance.
While the dangers of using triclosan in cosmetics warrant further research, Australian experts emphasize its importance when used in moderation and correctly.
Dr. Laurie Walsh, Professor of Dental Science at the University of Queensland, stated that the chemical could be used to treat a variety of conditions, including gingivitis and inflammation, as well as bleeding gums.
NICNAS Australia conducted a risk assessment and found no reason to be concerned. However, it recommended that maximum concentrations of triclosan (0.3%) in cosmetic products and personal care products be controlled.
Cosmetic products with more than 0.3% of triclosan must be clearly labeled. This is not the most effective marketing strategy for producers.
The American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will release an updated report about Triclosan in 2016. However, consumers can look for triclosan-free products in the interim.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde, an organic compound, has many uses. It is most commonly used for embalming. However, you can also use it to make building materials, textiles, household cleaning products, personal care products, and plastics.
It is also found in many foods, such as the humble egg.
Formaldehyde can be used in a slightly modified form and is listed under the name formalin. It is used as a preservative to protect products against contamination.
The World Health Organization International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified formaldehyde as a Group 1 Carcinogen. This means that it is known to cause cancer in humans.
Formaldehyde can cause skin irritations, sensory irritations, and breathing problems in people if inhaled, ingested, or in direct contact with the skin. It is still used in everyday products, so why?
The product’s concentration is most important, just like other chemicals. NICNAS has set safe limits for cosmetics containing formaldehyde after having evaluated it.
For example, toothpaste can only contain 0.1 percent formaldehyde while nail polishes can have as much as 5 percent. Other cosmetic products, such as shampoos or straightening solutions, can hold up to 0.2%. These low levels are considered safe for formaldehyde use.
NICNAS noted that even low concentrations of the chemicals could irritate people with sensitive skin.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) surveyed the formaldehyde levels of cosmetic products in 2010. Two products with unacceptable concentrations were recalled.
Phthalates
Phthalates (pronounced “THAL-ates”) are another class of chemicals found in cosmetics that have been flagged as hazardous by environmental groups.
These chemicals are used to soften and stretch plastic products, but they can also be found cosmetically in nail polish, hair spray (to make them less stiff or brittle), and perfumes.
Phthalates are made from oil. There are over 20 types of phthalates in everyday use. Because of their different chemical structures, toxic profiles, and uses, safety should not be grouped but viewed individually.
Studies have shown that varying phthalates can create endocrine disruptors in high and repeated concentrations. This means that they can cause hormonal imbalances in the body, leading to developmental issues in men.
Some studies also suggested a connection between phthalates, type 2 diabetes.
The European Union and the United States imposed bans against certain phthalates used in cosmetics. A small risk was identified in Australia by bis(2-ethyl hexyl phthalate (DEHP).
NICNAS has banned products containing DEHP at levels above the prescribed levels. This generally applies to toys for children.
Do You Want To Lead With Your Lipstick?
Consumers should be concerned about news reports highlighting the persistent and recurring high levels of lead in lipsticks. The University of California Berkley conducted a 2013 study that examined 32 lipsticks for their metal content.
Researchers tested all 32 products for aluminum, manganese, and titanium traces. Three-quarters of them also contain lead, affecting the nervous system and causing learning disabilities in children.
Many lipsticks and glosses contained nickel, cobalt, cadmium, and chromium, all known carcinogens.
These ingredients are why manufacturers would add them to their products. They don’t. They are known as ‘impurities’ in products, which are found in other ingredients like oils, waxes, or mineral pigments.
These substances are persistent and can be found in all environments, including water. It is nearly impossible to get rid of them.
But don’t give up on your lipstick. These naturally occurring elements are not necessarily a problem. The important thing is concentration. Is it toxic enough or low enough to be safe? Sunlight is also known to cause skin cancer.
However, you can still get outside and sunbathe. It all boils down to how much you are consuming.
The study found that all metals except chromium were within acceptable daily allowances. This was determined through a comparison of accepted water and air contamination levels.
You will consume more lead from drinking water than from lipstick. The study concluded that more research is needed to determine the metal content in cosmetic products, especially chromium.
Sun creams
Sun creams aren’t considered cosmetics, but they are used for therapeutic purposes. We will include them here because their widespread use, especially in Australia, is evident.
Sunscreens are essential in protecting the skin from harmful UVA and UVB radiation. Sunscreens effectively prevent certain types of skin cancers, including basal cell carcinomas and melanomas.
There has been a concern in recent years about the use of sunscreens containing nanoparticles (NP). This concerns zinc oxide (ZnO), titanium dioxide (TiO2), and other nanoparticles that penetrate the skin to reach cells.
Based on several papers published up to May 2013 and reviews by international authorities, the Therapeutic Goods Administration’s (TGA) position is that nanoparticles are safe.
Several in vitro, in vivo, and animal skin studies have demonstrated that the NPS doesn’t penetrate the skin’s underlying layers. The penetration limit is the stratum corneum. This suggests that systemic absorption of NPs is unlikely.
In 2014, a further study found that macrophages absorbed zinc oxide nanoparticles in human immune cells.
Current evidence shows that neither ZnO nor TiO2 nanoparticles will cause any harm when they are used in sunscreens. Avoiding suncreams (sunburn and skin cancers) is riskier than nanoparticles.
Conclusion
The current scientific consensus on the safety of many of these chemicals is safe to use. However, each consumer has the right to decide whether to purchase or use products containing certain ingredients.
It is essential that consumers only purchase trusted brands from established sellers. Cheap imports and copies purchased online may not have undergone the necessary testing and assessment and may not be what they claim.
Restorbio hopes you found this article to be helpful, and let us know if you have any questions by commenting below.
Felicia specializes in Asian beauty trends and products, including traditional herbal remedies and modern skincare innovations. She also has a deep understanding of the cultural and social factors that influence beauty standards and practices in different parts of Asia.