Makeup products can contain a variety of ingredients, some of which may be harmful. Here are some details on different aspects of makeup products:
Positive:
- Talc is a common ingredient in makeup because it creates a soft, silky texture, and it dilutes pigmented products and acts as filler.
- The FDA requires cosmetic labels to identify the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor.
Negative:
- Asbestos has been found in certain makeup products, including childrens makeup sold by Claires and Just Shine Shimmer Powder sold by Justice.
- A study found that many makeup products contain potentially toxic chemicals called PFAS, which were often not included on labels.
- Some cosmetic chemicals are designed to penetrate the skin completely, and they do. Consequently, some common cosmetic ingredients turn up in the body. Among them: industrial plasticizers called phthalates, a common fragrance component; parabens, which are preservatives; and persistent fragrance components like musk xylene.
- Mercury has been found in various cosmetic products, including skin-whitening cream, hair cream, beauty cream, hair gel, scrub, shampoo, shower gel, body lotion, hand wash, shaving cream, toothpaste, soap, lotion, facial lightening mask, facial lightening cream, lightening serum, talcum powder, skin lotion, eye shadow, lotion, serum, moisturizer, cream, lotion, gel, hair straightener, shampoo, dye, soap, oil, shower gel, face powder, foundation, lipstick, scented oil, deodorant, and salve.
Ingredients or materials:
- Asbestos has been found in talc, which is a popular ingredient in makeup.
- PFAS chemicals are added to cosmetics to condition, smooth or make skin appear shiny or to affect product consistency and texture.
- Some common cosmetic ingredients that can turn up in the body include industrial plasticizers called phthalates, parabens, and persistent fragrance components like musk xylene.
- Mercury has been found in various cosmetic products.
