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Decoding Mascara Ingredients: Your Guide to Safer Choices

Updated: Sep 15, 2023

Mascara is a staple for countless women, but have you ever considered what's actually in it? Unfortunately, several bestselling mascaras contain ingredients that could potentially harm your health. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the ingredients and how they might impact your health. Let's uncover the ingredients to watch out for and explore safer alternatives that not only enhance your lashes, but also prioritize your health.

Questionable Mascara Ingredients

Several common ingredients found in cosmetics have raised red flags due to their potential health risks:



PFAS: In a recent study, a toxic ingredient fluorine was found in three-quarters of waterproof mascaras! This discovery suggests the likely presence of toxic chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs)! PFASs have been associated with a range of health concerns, including impaired immune function, certain cancers, increased risk of diabetes and obesity, and disruptions to the endocrine system. Alarmingly, studies suggest that PFASs can negatively impact nearly every major organ system in the human body. With such serious health implications, it's crucial to be vigilant about the presence of PFASs in the cosmetics we use.


Carbon Black: Used as a pigment in cosmetics like eyeliner and lipstick, carbon black is derived from the incomplete combustion of carbon-based materials. Research has linked carbon black to an increased incidence of cancer and adverse effects on organs.


Phenoxyethanol: This preservative, commonly used in cosmetic products and perfumes, has been associated with allergic reactions and potential neurotoxicity. Additionally, it can be contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a probable human carcinogen.


Talc: Often found in face powders and eye shadows, talc can be contaminated with asbestos, a known carcinogen. The presence of asbestos in talc-based products has led to recalls and legal cases connecting talcum-based products to ovarian cancer and mesothelioma.


Ethanolamines: Ethanolamines (MEA, DEA, TEA) are present in various consumer products, including cosmetics. They have been linked to the development of liver tumours and are advised to be avoided.


Safer Mascara Recommendations


Here are some safer mascara options to consider:

ILIA - Mascaras

Ere Perez Mascara - use Low Toxin Rabbit for $$$ off

MG Naturals Mascara - use LOWTOXINRABBIT for $$$ off

Aleph - Lift / Lengthen Mascara

Lily Lolo- Natural Mascara – Black

Nude by Nature - Awaken Lengthening Mascara

World Organics - Black Lash Mascara


Taking care of your well-being means being mindful of what could be lingering in your makeup bag. When it comes to mascara, stay vigilant of potentially harmful ingredients such as PFASs, carbon black, phenoxyethanol, talc, and ethanolamines. By seeking out safer alternatives from brands that prioritize transparency and ingredient safety, we can enjoy the benefits of cosmetics without exposing ourselves to unnecessary health risks. Remember, beauty should not come at the expense of our health, and informed choices lead the way to a healthier and more beautiful you.


You can read more here on the ingredient and alternative in my blog post here - https://www.lowtoxinrabbit.com/post/makeup-s-dirty-dozen-how-to-find-low-toxin-options


References:

https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/news/hsph-in-the-news/are-there-toxins-in-your-mascara/



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