Recent research has found alarming amounts of chromium, cadmium, and manganese in many lipsticks, with the concern that these ingredients could increase your chances of developing various diseases and suffering organ damage. With lipstick applied to your lips, you cannot help but take in some of it while eating, drinking, and other activities.
Researchers studied how much heavy metal was in over thirty-two best-selling lipsticks and glosses. Once that was determined, they predicted the degree of risk to consumers, considering what typical contact with those metals would be and comparing that to what standard guidelines list as safe amounts. The main culprits were manganese, aluminum, chromium, and cadmium. Unusually high amounts of cadmium (when adding the amounts found in lipstick and diet) can lead to kidney issues. This is of special concern to those who have existing kidney issues. And chromium, in large amounts, can lead to stomach tumors. Lead has also been found as a common lipstick ingredient in unhealthy amounts.
Some companies are making efforts to produce lipsticks with healthier ingredients, so it is important to do your research before you buy. But that may be difficult because these ingredients are considered “contaminants” and not “ingredients,” so they may not be listed on the label. Even contacting the manufacturer may not assure that you’ll get accurate information on what is in your favorite brand.
One suggestion is to cut back on how much lipstick you use. Consider wearing it only for those special occasions, or if you do use it every day, only apply it once each day. That will keep the degree of toxins you take in lower. Another idea is to contact the company that makes your favorite lipstick and let them know that safe lipstick is important to you. Check out the helpful website of Skin Deep Cosmetics where you can find more information on the safety of products you use: http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/