Could Your Makeup Be Toxic?

Your mom probably gave you all kinds of reasons why she didn't want you to wear makeup when you were growing up.

'You'll mess up your skin and get a lot of pimples.'

'People might think you're cheap.'

'You don't need it anyway.'

'Mascara can give you pinkeye.'

'Makeup has all kinds of bad stuff in it.'

I'm not sure about the first four, but that last one has some truth to it. The fact is, some cosmetics really do have chemicals in them that can be harmful. The cosmetics industry might not want you to know this because it might harm their 'bottom line', but it really pays to read the labels. While this is not an exhaustive list by any means, here are a few chemicals that may be in your makeup bag right now. Most are not harmful when used on an occasional basis, but some can cause problems when used regularly.

Here's one thing I'll mention upfront-the FDA does not regulate cosmetics the way they do drugs or food items. In fact, outside of color additives, they don't really have the authority to decide what should and what shouldn't be in cosmetics before they are released for consumer use, whether they are salon-only or on the general market. I know this seems really strange that products that are distributed so widely wouldn't be subject to the type of rigorous testing other items are, but it's true. You can read more about this on the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics website (http://safecosmetics.org/section.php?id=75).

One harmful chemical in some cosmetics is 'parfum', aka 'fragrance'. Even if something says, 'unscented' many products will have some sort of fragrance to mask a 'chemical smell'. This means that, even if something says that it isn't scented, it can still trigger asthma or allergy attacks in people sensitive to such things. 

Also, not all fragrances are created equal. Some have chemicals called 'phthalates' (pronounced tha-lates) that have been linked to obesity and a disruption of endocrine and reproductive function in men. While we might say, 'well men don't wear makeup anyway so what does it matter', it should be considered that these effects can affect a male fetus when used by a pregnant woman.

Do you remember the stories about kids getting brain damage after being taught in classrooms with lead-based paint? Believe it or not, the same chemical-lead acetate-is present in some lipsticks, as well as hair dyes for men. It can sink in through the skin as well as being inhaled, which makes it doubly dangerous.

Parabens are another chemical that is used in many cosmetics, despite the risks being known. Commonly listed as methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben or butylparaben on labels, parabens are commonly found in moisturizers, lotions and sunscreen. They are also often used as preservatives. They mimic estrogen, which has been found in breast cancer tumors.

Do you wonder what it is that gives your eyeshadow that 'sparkly' look? It's talc, which is also found in baby powder to absorb moisture. It's been known to act as a carcinogen, both on the skin and inhaled. When inhaled, it has a similar effect as asbestos, which may cause tumors in the lungs.

There are several other chemicals and additives that are in many of the cosmetics we use today that can harm us over time. Like I said before, occasional use might not be a problem as much as regular use or overuse might be. If you'd like more information, check out http://safecosmetics.org. Even if we don't think anything bad can happen to us or don't use makeup very often, it's always good to know what is in the things you put on or in your body.