When picking out makeup and skincare products, we often assume they’ve passed safety regulations before hitting the shelves. However, this isn’t always the case. According to the FDA, there are no laws requiring makeup companies to get FDA approval before selling their products. This means it’s up to us, the consumers, to be aware of what’s in the products we use. Here are five harmful ingredients you should be cautious of:
BHA (Butylated Hydroxyanisole) and BHT (Butylated Hydroxytoluene)
BHA and BHT are preservatives commonly found in lipsticks and moisturizers, as well as in some food products. These substances are known to cause allergic skin reactions and are classified as carcinogens, meaning they can potentially cause cancer. They are also endocrine disruptors, which can interfere with hormone function. Additionally, BHA has been linked to liver damage, stomach cancers, and abnormal reproductive system development.
Lead
While most of us are aware that lead is harmful, its presence in makeup products is often overlooked. Lead can be found in lipsticks, moisturizers, foundations, and other cosmetics. It has been scientifically proven to delay puberty in females, reduce fertility, and act as a neurotoxin that can lead to miscarriage. Lead is particularly dangerous for those who eat while wearing lipstick. The concerning part is that lead isn’t usually listed on product labels because it’s considered a contaminant rather than an ingredient. This makes it crucial to research products thoroughly before purchasing.
Parabens
Parabens are additives used to prevent bacterial growth and extend the shelf life of products. However, they can mimic estrogen and have been linked to breast cancer. Various forms of parabens exist, including methylparaben, propylparaben, and butylparaben. Methylparaben, in particular, is found in many skincare creams and can react with UVB rays from the sun, leading to skin aging and DNA damage.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable gas used as a preservative in products like nail polish, conditioners, and body washes. The International Agency for Research on Cancer has classified formaldehyde as a carcinogen, meaning it can cause cancer, particularly nasopharyngeal cancer, which affects the head and neck. Formaldehyde is currently banned in the EU, and it can also cause irritation of the eyes, throat, skin, and nose.
Polyethylene/PEG Compounds
Polyethylene glycols (PEGs) are petroleum-based compounds found in body scrubs, body washes, cream-based makeup, and skincare products. They are used because they help other ingredients penetrate deeper into the skin. While this can be beneficial with healthy ingredients, it becomes dangerous when harmful substances are involved. PEG compounds can contain ethylene oxide, a carcinogen harmful to the nervous system, and 1,4-dioxane, a potential carcinogen that can persist without breaking down for extended periods.
In conclusion, it’s vital to be informed about the ingredients in your makeup and skincare products. Taking the time to research and choose safer alternatives can help protect your health in the long run.
