Lipstick, eyeshadow, foundation- have you ever taken a moment to have a look at the ingredients in your makeup bag staples? If you haven’t, we have and you really should.
If you take a closer look at the labels of your commercial makeup products, you will be in for something of a nasty surprise. All too often, these products we put on our faces for hours at a time are packed full of chemicals and synthetic ingredients that are not so great for our skin and health. Many have even been identified as having a significant impact on our bodies.
Synthetic colourants are often used in makeup such as eyeshadow and lipstick have been shown to trigger allergic reactions, have carcinogenic properties and can have a negative impact on the human reproductive system. Instead, chemical free, natural, organic, cruelty-free, vegan makeup such as natural lipstick and vegan eyeshadows, often uses plant-derived colourants as natural pigments which are very gentle on the skin and don’t trigger any bad side effects.
Silicones are another offender, found too often in many cosmetics. These are a form of plastic and are usually found in primers or foundations. Whilst they do help the skin to feel smoother, they pollute the environment and create an occlusive film on the skin. This prevents the skin from breathing properly and can cause your skin health to deteriorate over time. Opt for a natural foundation or vegan primer that is 100% silicone free.
Artificial preservatives are another ingredient you should be looking out for. Parabens are particularly controversial as they are classed as endocrine disruptors. Whilst it is necessary to use preservatives in makeup, there are more natural, organic, eco-friendly, vegan makeup alternatives. It is best to opt for natural foundations, vegan nail polish, vegan eyeshadow and natural lipstick that are free from these preservative chemicals that can actually dry our your skin and do more harm than good.
Mineral oils, not to be confused with mineral makeups are also considered very unhealthy. Many of these oils are by-products of the petrol industry and are extremely un-environmentally friendly. They have zero benefit for the skin and clog pores leading to problems like blackheads and spots.
Last but not least, keep your eyes peeled for synthetic fragrances that are often found in foundation, lipstick, blush and bronzers. They can often trigger allergic reactions including skin and respiratory issues. Instead, look out for natural, organic, vegan makeup products such as natural lipstick, natural foundation, organic blush and organic bronzers, that are either unscented or scented with natural, vegan, cruelty-free ingredients like organic essential oils.
What’s the moral of the story? Eco, natural, vegan makeup is best!
