If you’re like me, Mascara is a staple product in your daily routine. It’s not just a cosmetic we use but it’s a tool we utilize to instantly awaken our eyes which adds the final touch to pull our entire look together. Have you ever questioned if there’s toxic ingredients in your mascara?
In the midst of our busy lives, mascara can be an important part of your self-care and self-love journey. As you sweep the wand across your lashes you’re taking a few moments to focus on yourself. A few coats of clean, healthy mascara can give you the confidence you need to conquer your day.
Your eyes are very delicate, and what you put near them can impact your health. The mascara you use may not be good for your skin and lash health. When you’re shopping for mascara, it’s critical to read labels carefully and choose products that don’t contain toxic or potentially harmful ingredients that can damage your lashes and skin health.
Let’s look at some of the toxic and harmful ingredients that can be in your mascara. This way you can make an informed choice about what you’re putting on your lashes and near your eyes.
Parabens could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in Your Mascara
These are preservatives that are used in mascara to prevent bacteria growth and mold. Parabens have been linked to hormone disruption and studies have shown that Parabens potentially link to breast cancer. Look out for ingredients like:
- Methylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
Phthalates could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in your Mascara
Phthalates are used to improve the texture and longevity of your mascara. These are under the term “fragrance” on labels and Phthalates are known as endocrine disruptors and have been linked to thyroid problems and reproductive issues. Ensure to look for labels marked “Phthalate Free” and pay attention to the abbreviations such as:
- DBP
- DEP
- DiDP
- DnHP
- DINP
- DEHP
- DMP
- DNOP
- BBP
Coal Tar could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in your Mascara
Coal Tar is a known carcinogen and is used as a colorant in some mascaras. It has been associated with cancer and may be contaminated with heavy metals. Coal Tar can be listed on your mascara as:
- FD & C Blue no.1
- Carbon Black
- Black 2
- D&C Black 2
- Acetylene Black
- Thermal Black
Formaldehyde could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in your Mascara
Formaldehyde is often found in mascara as a preservative to improve shelf life. It is a known human carcinogen and can also cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. This ingredient can be shown as:
- DMDM Hydantoin
- Methanal
- Methanediol
- Monohydrate
- Formalin,
- Formic acid
- Quaternium-15
Retinyl Acetate could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in your Mascara
This is a form of Vitamin A and is added to mascara to improve lash health. In high doses, this ingredient can be harmful to your eyes. It has been linked to developmental and reproductive toxicity. Other names are:
- Vitamin A Acetate
- Acetate
- Acetylretinol
- All-trans-Retinol Acetate
Aluminum Powder could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in Your Mascara
Aluminum Powder is used to provide the color pigmentation in mascara. It has been associated with organ system toxicity and has been questioned for its potential link to Alzheimer’s disease. Other names that may be used for this ingredient are:
- Aluminum Flake
- LB Pigment 5
- Pigment Metal
BHA could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in Your Mascara
An ingredient that is a synthetic antioxidant and used in mascara to extend shelf life. It has been classified as a possible human carcinogen, can cause skin irritation and poses potential health risks. This ingredient could be listed as:
- Butylated Hydroxy Anisole
- Butylated Hydroxyanisole
- 2-Tert-butyl-4 Methoxyphenol
- Tert-butyl-4 Methoxyphenol
Fragrance/Perfume could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in Your Mascara
The term “fragrance” on mascara can hide a multitude of chemicals as company’s fragrance formulas are not public information. Some of the chemicals can contain allergens, irritants, and hormone disruptors.
Fragrance is often used to mask the scent of other ingredients. You should opt for mascara that is labeled ‘fragrance free’.
Lead could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in Your Mascara
Lead is a heavy metal and can be toxic and harmful to your health. Contamination with lead, even in small amounts is a concern in some mascara for pigment. It can lead to serious health issues, learning difficulties and neurological damage.
Lead is labeled as an impurity and is regulated in USA, Canada and Europe but be wary of ordering from online websites where products are coming from other countries.
Propylene Glycol could be one of the Toxic Ingredients in Your Mascara
This ingredient can cause skin irritation and has been linked to allergic reactions. It is a common ingredient used in mascara to give it a smooth texture. Other names for propylene glycol are:
- Methylethyl Glycol
- 1,2-Diol
- 1,2-Propanediol
- 2-Hydroxpropanol
- 1,2 Dihydroxpropane
- Isopropylene Glycol
- Trimethyl Glycol
- E1520
Bonus Ingredient – PSAS that could be in your Mascara
If you wear waterproof mascara, it can have a toxic ingredient called PFAS which is seen in both long-lasting and waterproof mascara. PFAS are water and grease resistant that are used for making stain and water-repellent which are considered a hazardous chemical. Avoid ingredients listed with “fluoro” or “perfluoro”. PFAS are also known as:
- PTFE
- Polyfluoralkul
- Polytetrafluoroethylene
- Perfluorooctyl Triethoxysilane
- Perfluorononl Dimethicone
- Perfluorodecalin
- Perfluorohexane
- Fluorine
Mascara works wonders for enhancing your lashes and is a tool you use for your selfcare and to empower you. Your eyes are precious and what you apply on your lashes and put near them matters to the health of your eyes.
It’s essential to be aware of the potentially harmful ingredients that can be in your mascara. It is important for you to read labels and opt for mascara that is toxic free.
If you would like more information about a healthy, clean, toxic free mascara from CMYK Cosmetics called ‘The One and Only Mascara with 14 better-for-you ingredients, please click the button below.
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