What you put in your body is just as much of a concern as what you put on it. Your skin can easily absorb most products, and that’s why when it comes to cosmetics it’s essential to know exactly the types of ingredients that go into your makeup. We’ve rounded up five potentially harmful ingredients that could be living in your cosmetic bag this very minute.
Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, AKA Teflon®)
PTFE can be found in some foundations, pressed or loose powder, bronzer, blush and many other makeup products. PTFE provides a smooth and sleek finish, which is why it’s desirable among makeup lines. PTFE can also be disguised as other ingredients such as DEA-C8-18 or Perfluoroalkylethyl Phospate.
Lead, arsenic, mercury, etc.
These ingredients can be found in lip products, eyeliner, as well as foundation. Heavy metals can be added intentionally or found as contaminants. However, their presence in cosmetics is only restricted in the United States, while they are completely banned in Canada, Japan, and the EU.
Talc
Talc is an ingredient found within some foundations, eye shadows and even baby powder. The primary uses of Talc are to make products appear opaque on the skin, as well as to prevent caking. Talc can pose health risks when it contains asbestos, so always search for companies that certify that their talc is free of asbestos on their websites and products.
Butylated Compounds
Butylated Compounds (BHA, BHT) are present in some lip products, sunscreen and face makeup. BHT typically serves as an antioxidant and preservative within makeup, food and animal feed. The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) claims that there is a fair amount of evidence to conclude that BHT is a human irritant.
Carbon Black
Carbon Black can be found in eyeliner, mascaras, eye shadows and other face makeup. Carbon black that is available for commercial use contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), which are possible human carcinogens. Carbon Black can also be identified as D & C Black No. 2, Acetylene Black, or Thermal Black and is restricted, but no banned, by the United States and the Europe Union.