Toxic Makeup Brands
the good good
There will be no finger pointing. We aren’t going to name names here. BUT you will leave with a better understanding of what to look out for (ie toxic chemicals in your makeup that you need to avoid), as well as thoroughly vetted non toxic makeup recommendations.
How many makeup products do you own? It seems like these days everyone has drawers full of makeup - which is understandable because there is always a new and exciting product to try. But it can be a tad overwhelming honestly…
As mentioned in our previous Where to Start? post, the EWG (environmental research group) found that women on average use 12 personal care products a day, exposing themselves to 168 chemicals daily!! Just from your personal care products.
Startling when you really think about it; especially because your products (which are filled with chemicals) that you put onto your skin daily can absorb directly into our bloodstream.
So what should you look out for?
Ingredients to AVOID:
Fragrance (immediately toss)
Any products with the ingredient “fragrance”, “perfume” or “parfum,” or “aroma,” etc should be avoided. (Go audit your cabinet & toss immediately.) “Fragrance” listed as an ingredient can be a cover for thousands of chemicals that brands don’t want you to know about and is often packed EDCs (including phthalates) and carcinogens. This goes for cleaning products and home products as well.
A known endocrine disruptor that is commonly used preservative in cosmetic products to limit bacteria growth that has been linked with heath issues - including eczema and neurotoxin in infants.
Colorants with “lake” in the name (example: Red 6 and 7 Lake (CI 15850)
These ingredients include metal salts (typically aluminum hydroxide), which are composed of heavy metals and other toxic substances.
Chromium Dyes (Ex: Chromium Hydroxide Green)
Some chromium compounds, such as hexavalent chromium, are known carcinogens.
Known to have high persistence and bioaccumulation, as well as moderate non-reproductive organ system toxicity
As a general rule of thumb, avoid any products with an ingredient or overall rating above 4 on the EWG.
Simple, Clean Makeup
The key when transitioning to non toxic makeup brands is to pair down your makeup routine. Keep. It. Simple.
All you need is a good:
+ foundation/concealer
+ bronzer
+ blush
+ mascara
+ eyebrow pencil
+ (maybe) eyeliner?
We are keeping it natural. Here are natural makeup recommendations - all of which have been thoroughly vetted.
Foundation/Concealer
for silky smooth flawless skin
Next week, I will be posting a deep dive into the best non toxic foundations. Stay tuned!
Blush
doubles as an eyeshadow and lip tint. We love a multipurpose product :)
Saie Dew Blush (IMO shade dreamy - slightly shimmery - or chilly - for no shimmer)
Bronzer
sculpted golden goddess
Saie Sun Melt Bronzer (IMO shade tan bronze)
Mascara
first clean beauty product I bought & for good reason…
Here is a list of the best non toxic mascara options on the market.
Eyebrow pencil
i love a bold but natural eyebrow. LOVE.
Ilia In Full Brow Pencil (IMO shade dark brown)
Kosas Brow Pop (IMO shade brown black)
Eyeliner ?
i am not a big eyeliner woman these days? but maybe you are…
Other notable mentions:
Organic Cotton Rounds - Cotton is one the world’s most pesticide-intensive crops, along with coffee. Organic, mold-free cold brew how-to coming soon :)
Cleansing Oil to remove makeup - I was so hesitant too - especially, because I am acne prone. But this stuff is the sh**. I may have had a week or so of a skin purge during the transition - or it could also have been due to us being in a very humid climate (Miami) during the transition. I do facial lymphatic drainage while I massage it into my face every night. Ugh - love, love, love :)
Looking to transition to non toxic hair products? Start here.
For more vetted non toxic self care products, take a look here.
As always, I love to hearing from you - what you love + want more of! I try to base my articles and research off of what you are interested in. Thank you in advance!
More soon,
Drew