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Healthier Makeup Choices Part 2: Effects of Conventional Makeup

Some ingredchemical-free cosmetic productients in cosmetics are known to be toxic to our bodies. It baffles me as to why scientists would ever think of including them in products that we apply directly on our skin, and why it is legal!

There was an argument that these ingredients were present in such minute quantities that their effects were negligible.  However, there is now scientific evidence that even the smallest quantities of chemicals will have a disrupting effect on our hormones and endocrine system.

 

Here are some of the ingredients found in conventional make up brands, and the potential side-effects of those ingredients:

 

  • Paraben preservatives or alkyl-p-hydroxybenzoates (methyl, propyl, butyl, and ethyl).    

These ingredients are used to preserve and kill bacteria in virtually every conventional cosmetic product including foundations, concealers and mascara.no parabens sign

They are proven to be carcinogenic and estrogenic which means they mimic natural estrogens, which can lead to cancer and disrupting hormone levels.

  • “Amine family” diethanolamine (DEA), triethanolamine (TEA), amonoethanolamine (MEA)

Used to adjust ph levels, emulsify and preserve, the amine family of synthetic chemicals can be found in foundation, concealer, eyeliner, spf products including tinted moisturisers, loose and pressed powder.

This group of chemicals can disrupt hormone levels, irritate skin and hair causing contact dermatitis, cause allergic reactions in eyes and become even more volatile when used with other synthetic chemicals. They have even been linked with liver and kidney cancer.

  • Propylene / Butylene Glycol (PG)poisonous substance sign

This ingredient helps products retain moisture in turn giving them a longer shelf life and it is also used as a cheap substitute to glycerine. It is used in lipsticks and lip-glosses.

Propylene glycol has been linked with abnormal function of the brain, liver, and kidneys, as well as respiratory and throat irritation. It can affect the central nervous system, cause depression, hypoglycaemia, skin rashes and dermatitis! It is said to be toxic to our nervous system and weaken our protein and cellular structure.

Even just knowing about those few ingredients and the potential negative consequences of using them, mineral/plant derived cosmetics are well ahead in my preferences.

 

Here are a few websites if you would like to explore more on this topic:

 

True Friends of Natural and Organic Cosmeticstoxies event

The Organic Make Up Company

The Campaign for Safe Cosmetics

To learn and have a giggle at the same time definitely check out The Toxies – Annual Chemical Awards Ceremony in California!

 

 

So rather than choosing a make up item because you like the advertisement, are caught up in the campaign, because a celebrity endorses it, or because you don’t have to reapply it for 12 hours, think about looking good and looking after yourself at the same time with mineral and plant derived options.mineral makeup

 

At Lily Jackson, we have our very own brand of mineral cosmetics, exclusively sourced and manufactured in Australia. This range is free from all harmful chemicals, is good for your skin and performs just as well as the conventional counterparts.  Taking a look at the ingredient labels, all you will find are the pure minerals and plant derived ingredients that are not tested on animals. The range is also certified as Cruelty-free.

 

Come in and see how effective mineral make up can be with a complimentary mini-make up application.  Just call us on (02) 9360 8708 to make your booking.