We pay close attention to the foods we consume by reading the labels to check fat content, nutrients, and any ingredient that would be bad for the body. However, when it comes to makeup, we never go beyond the shade and texture. Did you know that most conventional makeup products contain harmful ingredients that may compromise the quality of your skin? Yup, really.
We understand reading cosmetic labels is not easy; therefore, we made a list of five harmful ingredients that should not be on your face, lips or eyes.
01. Artificial fragrance
Did you ever open a lipstick and noticed that it has an inviting fragrance? Well, it shouldn’t, unless it has some natural ingredients extracts. Under the name of ‘parfum’ and ‘fragrance’, your makeup product could be hiding a cocktail of allergens, irritants as well as carcinogens. Therefore, avoid products that contain artificial fragrance; why do you even need your lipstick or foundation to smell good anyway?
02. SLS and SLES
A lot of cream-based products like foundation, concealer contain sodium laureth sulfate, which allows the product to absorb faster into the skin. While it may seem like a benefit, this ingredient is the most common cause of acne. By absorbing into the skin quickly, it clogs pores and leads to breakouts.
03. Lead
Colourful cosmetics like powders and lipstick contain lead. You will be surprised to know that this one harmful ingredient can cause hormonal imbalances in both men and women, leave your lips permanently discoloured. If that’s not enough, it contains a neurotoxin that is linked with learning, behavioural dysfunctionalities *yikes*. Sadly, some of the most popular brands continue to add it to their products, so beware!
04. Parabens
Parabens are added to pretty much everything, right from your soap, lotion, to makeup. It acts as a preservative and prevents the growth of bacteria in the product. It is usually present under the names methylparaben, propylparaben, isopropyl paraben, and isobutyl paraben. The problem with this ingredient is that it mimics estrogen in the body and leads to hormonal imbalances and, in some cases, even cancer.
05. Toluene
A chemical commonly added in nail polish and hair dyes, toluene can be very toxic to the immune system. This petrochemical solvent in toluene can cause birth defects. Pregnant women are advised to stay away from nail polishes containing this ingredient.
Written by Sanya Hamdani on Apr 19, 2021
Sanya Hamdani is a skincare enthusiast and lipstick hoarder, she truly believes no two red lipsticks look exactly alike. With a Master's degree in Communication & Journalism and 5+ years of digital writing experience up her sleeve, Sanya has some of the biggest beauty experts in the country on her speed dial. When she's not swatching products or writing about the latest trends in beauty, you will find her watching F.R.I.E.N.D.S. or cooking up a storm in the kitchen.