New reports show that makeup (and even toy makeup!) kits contain traces of asbestos. Here’s what you need to know and tips for finding clean makeup.
You wouldn't expect to see something as frightening as asbestos in a pretend makeup kit for your child. But that's exactly what happened, according to a recent press release from the Environmental Working Group (EWG).
Of course, finding anything as dangerous as asbestos in makeup would be concerning, but makeup for kids? YIKES!
If such a dangerous substance can be found in children's products, one has to ask what else can be present in otherwise safe goods.
To help you avoid this proven carcinogen at all costs, we have the inside scoop.
How Does Asbestos Work? Why Is It So Bad, and Why?
There is no asbestos exposure safe level. Every exposure poses a risk.
Asbestos is a material that can be found in rock deposits, but when asbestos particles are inhaled, they can lead to serious health issues like lung cancer and mesothelioma. There is no safe exposure limit, according to the World Health Organization, hence any exposure is harmful.
In fact, asbestos is so dangerous that if any is found during a house restoration, professional teams in hazmat gear must arrive to remove it before any work can continue. Asbestos is found in other things outside construction materials, as was previously mentioned.
Why is Asbestos in Cosmetics?
You might be wondering why so many recent investigations have detected asbestos in makeup—something we put directly on our skin—if asbestos is actually so toxic (spoiler alert: it is!).
All that's left is cosmetic-grade talc.
Cosmetic grade talc is purposely included to cosmetics, although asbestos is not. To avoid caking and produce a smoother consistency, talc is added to cosmetics, particularly eye shadow.
Sadly, talc is frequently tainted with minute amounts of asbestos. And this results in asbestos in talc-containing cosmetics. Cheap, fake goods coming from China, where rules are less strict, pose an even greater risk.
The Worst Cosmetics to Avoid
Your greatest organ (your skin!) is where cosmetics is applied, thus it's a good idea to keep it as clean as possible. But how can you ensure that asbestos isn't present in your makeup in a world when this issue is so widespread?
Select cosmetics free of the following components:
Powdered talc
Parabens
Phthalates
Chemicals that emit formaldehyde (such as propylene glycol)
Palmitate of retina
Carbon tar
gasoline byproducts
Artificial smells and artificial colors
Oxybenzone
Sulfates in mineral oil
also shop wiser
Be aware of beauty kits made in China because there are few standards there and a significant problem with counterfeit goods, which can result in higher asbestos levels in makeup. Always keep in mind that if a deal appears too good to be true, it probably is. High-quality ingredients are not inexpensive, therefore it's a warning sign if cosmetics is dirt cheap.
What Safer Alternatives Exist, Then?
Thankfully, you may still enjoy red lips and smokey eyes while making better decisions. There are many safer options available nowadays. How to cut through the noise is as follows:
Keep to natural cosmetics brands.
I adored traditional cosmetics brands like Lancome, Clinique, and MAC before I became Mama Natural. And to be honest, I struggled to find something more hygienic to use in its place—that is, until I came across Beautycounter.
It’s the first more “natural” makeup I’ve used that feels like luxury and actually works. The lipsticks have a true stain, the overnight peels make my skin noticeably clearer, and the tinted moisturizer does wonders for that coveted dewy glow.
Plus, it’s ideal for busy mamas. They have over 150 products that I know are as safe as possible. There’s no research to do—just select what I want and wait for it to arrive on my doorstep.
Advice on purchasing safer cosmetics
There are also a few shopping habits you should adopt to ensure you’re getting the cleanest products, from soap and shampoo to blush and eyeshadow.
Whenever you shop, always:
Purchase your makeup directly from the website or from reputable Amazon merchants (no third parties)
Verify ingredient lists frequently (there is an app for that)
Check product ratings by comparing them to the EWG database.
a different perspective on cosmetics
Of course, you can make your own cosmetics if you want ultra-pure makeup. For instance, you can create your own lip gloss by combining coconut oil and beeswax. Here are a few more suggestions:
Face powder: To achieve your chosen tone, combine a tiny amount of cocoa powder with arrowroot powder.
Start with 1/4 teaspoon of arrowroot powder for eye makeup. Then add color using activated charcoal, cocoa powder, spirulina, or beet root powder.
Make mascara by combining one capsule of activated charcoal with two teaspoons of aloe vera gel, two teaspoons of shea butter, and 3/4 teaspoons of beeswax. Fill with the empty mascara container.
Super quick lip gloss: Coconut oil! Easy as pie!
The Verdict Regarding Asbestos in Cosmetics
Asbestos has a tendency of snucking into the least expected areas, from toy makeup to your own cosmetics. The good news is that you can still find makeup without asbestos with a little research (read: label-reading) and some replacements.
It is advised to avoid using cosmetics if you have any doubts about its quality. Keep in mind that there is no safe amount of asbestos in makeup, so it is important to prioritize safety.
How About You?
Have you switched to using just natural cosmetics? Which cosmetics are in your bag?
