Cosmetic Conundrum!

Written by: Kanya Shah
Did you know that makeup contains several ingredients that are harmful to you and the environment? It’s true, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG.org), a nonprofit organization, makeup contains multiple dangerous chemicals that are known for causing skin allergies, acne, and other health issues. With the average person using 9 products a day with 126 different chemical exposures, it’s important to know what you’re dealing with. 

What ingredients should you avoid? Parabens, phthalates, lead, triclosan, formaldehyde, and retinoic acid are some of the most common harmful chemicals found in makeup. Parabens, phthalates, and triclosan are endocrine disrupting chemicals that alter the hormone signals in your body. Parabens are makeup preservatives, phthalates help to make up the “fragrance”--a word which covers 3,100 different chemicals on a label, and triclosan is an antibacterial chemical that is no more effective than regular soap and water. Formaldehyde is another preservative that prevents mold growth in cosmetics but is known as a potent carcinogenic allergen. Retinoic acid is commonly found in nail polish and in lotions that can increase your skin cancer risk. Lead is commonly found in paint and plumbing equipment but recent studies have shown that famous lipstick companies have been using lead in the formula used to produce lipstick.
Tips for using healthier makeup: 

• Read the ingredients before buying cosmetics. Try to buy makeup with 5 or less ingredients and avoid those listed above.
• Using organic makeup is also a good alternative, though it is important to still read the labels as just the word ‘organic’ can be misleading. 
• Good signs are: paraben-free, phthalate-free, and short ingredients lists. 
• Steer away from products that contain microplastic beads because they can easily be ingested and cause you to become more susceptible to diseases. 
• Too much to remember? Check out EWG.org’s Skin Deep guide where you can look up your products and see how they rate. 

Overall, be aware of what products you use because it may be the reason you dodge a complication and set off on a healthier path.