woman applying lipgloss on lips
Spring is in bloom, and romance is in the air. But before puckering up, you’d be wise to consider a new analysis, which found troubling levels of toxins in cosmetics – particularly lipstick.
Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley’s School of Public Health detected lead, cadmium, chromium, aluminum and five other metals in 32 different lipsticks and lip glosses commonly found in drugstores and department stores. According to the report, which is published Thursday in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, some of these metals were found at levels that could have long term health effects.
As far as I’m concerned, any level of any metal found in any makeup product is too much – particularly in lipstick or lip gloss, which are easily ingested and absorbed, bit by bit, by the person wearing them. The researchers in this study noted even average daily ingestion of lip makeup, defined as 24 milligrams per day, could result in excessive exposure to chromium, which has been linked to stomach tumors.
High use, defined as 87 milligrams per day, could overexpose users to metals like manganese, which has been linked to nervous system toxicity.
It has long been acknowledged, but not necessarily well-studied, that conventionally produced makeup contains numerous carcinogens, and might be harmful to our health. And it’s not only adults who are at risk – don’t you know a precarious toddler or young child just dying to try on mom’s lipstick, or get all made up for Halloween or a school play? As the UC Berkeley study found, lead is commonly found in lip makeup, and no level of lead exposure is considered safe for children. It can lead to decreased bone and muscle growth, nervous system and kidney damage, speech problems, and seizures.
Lead is undeniably dangerous to children, but ingesting or absorbing products containing lead and other metals on a regular basis can’t be good for anyone. The study focuses a lot on “acceptable” daily intake levels of these poisonous substances – but why is any level that is more than zero considered acceptable at all?
Like the cleaning products industry, which is largely unregulated by the U.S. government and does not require manufacturers to disclose ingredients to consumers, there are currently no U.S. standards for metal content in cosmetics.
Interestingly, and as the study authors note, the European Union considers any level of cadmium, chromium, and lead in cosmetics unacceptable. Why don’t we?
As the so-called “health” establishment remains lax on protecting consumers from the dangers of metals in makeup (and toxins in other personal care products), it is imperative to educate yourself. The Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Cosmetics Database remains a wonderful resource for assessing just how safe – or not – your favorite lipstick, mascara, or foundation might be, and selecting the least harmful option. TheDailyGreen.com suggests actually reading those tiny ingredient lists on every item of makeup you buy, and opting for products with the most pronounceable names – they’re least likely to be carcinogenic. Be wary of makeup advertising two or three organic ingredients, as the rest of the contents could be synthetic. For more resources, check out my website.
Use common sense, do your research, and spread the word. As fewer people buy poisonous makeup, companies will be compelled to change its ways and adopt safer practices if they want to make money. The power, as always, is in your hands – or in this case, on your lips.
Note: Information provided herein is not intended to treat or diagnose any health condition. As always, consult your health care provider with any questions or health concerns.
Stay up-to-date on the biggest health and wellness news with our weekly recap.