Makeup is loved by many, and with beauty gurus on the rise, the beauty industry just gets more competitive. Makeup comes in a vast range of prices and brands, so the market isn’t limited to a fixed demographic. Especially with trends being set by popular beauty experts, makeup lovers influenced by them now have both drugstore and high-end brands in their collection.

But sadly, there is a dark side to makeup. Certain ingredients that can be harmful to the skin are found in most, and while not everyone gets skin and health problems from these ingredients, it would still be wiser to stay away from them. This led to mineral makeup being introduced because they are free from harmful ingredients. However, there are “mineral makeup” being sold that still contain skin irritants.

In order not to fall victim to those, choose trusted makeup brands like Jane Iredale and others.

Here are some of the dangerous ingredients in some makeup products:

Mineral Oil

According to biochemist Paula Simpson, mineral oil clogs the pores because it has a barrier effect on the skin. Dermatologist Ava Shamban says that mineral oil and paraffin can damage the skin barrier and increase water loss.

Mineral oil is also derived from petroleum, which the skin doesn’t absorb. Therefore, it sits on the skin and can act as a sun reflector, leading to sunburns and discoloration.

2. Parabens

Parabens are preservatives widely used from bath to beauty products. They disrupt the endocrine system, resulting in hormonal imbalances, and possibly breast cancer. A study actually discovered that 99% of all cancerous breast tumors contain parabens.

3. Artificial Fragrance

You’d usually see artificial fragrance or parfum labeled simply as “fragrance”, and unfortunately, there’s no easy way to know what’s actually in these fragrances. These may be carcinogens, skin irritants, endocrine disruptors, or allergens.

4. Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is also used as a preservative in many cosmetic products. It’s also known to potentially cause cancer, and is linked to asthma, neurotoxicity, and developmental toxicity.

5. Oxybenzone

Oxybenzone can be found in sunscreens that use chemical filters, as well as in some moisturisers, lip balms, and makeup. Aside from being a skin allergen, oxybenzone can also cause hormonal imbalance and even thyroid problems.

Harmful Ingredients Found in Impure Mineral Makeup

Pure mineral makeup should only include titanium dioxide, zinc dioxide, mica, iron dioxide, and others, except the following:

Asbestos

Talcum powder may contain asbestos, an extremely harmful agent that causes cancer.

2. Silicone

Silicone is labeled as “dimethicone” or “Cyclomethicone”, and they make makeup products feel silky and smooth. When used too often or left on the skin for long periods of time, silicone ingredients can harbor bacteria, sebum, and other impurities, leading to breakouts.

3. Phenoxyethanol

Another preservative, phenoxyethanol is also used in bath products and perfumes. However, there are some proofs of this ingredient being a skin irritant, most especially for people with eczema. When choosing your mineral makeup, avoid those with any kind of preservatives, because pure mineral makeup doesn’t need them at all.

4. Bismuth oxychloride

This is a natural heavy metal, but in makeup, it’s usually the synthetic version used. It gives the skin a glow or shimmer, but with the risks of skin irritation, itching, and breakouts.

5. Silica and Kaolin

Both of these ingredients absorb oil and moisture. While it’s actually good for people with oily skin, you should avoid them if you have dry skin because they can further dehydrate your skin.

Now that we know the harmful ingredients widely used in makeup and other beauty products, we should take note of them to avoid contracting skin and health problems. If you have makeup with any of those ingredients, get rid of them immediately and switch to safer and healthier alternatives.