Many beauty products use words such as healthy, pure, natural, nourishing, and wholesome in their advertising and on their packaging. However, many people would be shocked to find out that some makeup products contain potentially harmful chemicals and substances. If you decide to read the ingredients listed on your favorite makeup, have Google ready to look up what most of the 13-letter words mean and how they could cause potential harm.

Below we list 10 of the common ingredients used in some makeup products that could be potentially harmful. We should note that many of these ingredients are considered safe for use by humans, according to various research sources and government agencies. However, there are also research studies that indicate the ingredients could be harmful, and more study is required. Unfortunately, the matter is largely left to the consumer to research a makeup product and its ingredients to determine if the product is safe to use.

10 Potentially Dangerous Makeup Ingredients

1. Talc

It would be difficult not to include talc on our list in light of the recent court cases against Johnson & Johnson. Plaintiffs allege the talcum powder in various Johnson & Johnson products causes ovarian cancer. The Plaintiffs allege that the company knew of the link to ovarian cancer and continued to use talc in its products without warning consumers of the potential risks.

2. Octinoxate

Octinoxate or Octyl methoxycinnamate (OMC) is a UV filter used in many different types of cosmetics, including sunscreen, hair color products, lipstick, shampoo, nail polish, and skin creams. OMC has been linked to a variety of health concerns, including breast cancer, endocrine problems, and thyroid disorders.

3. Synthetic Colors

Artificial colors have long been suspected to increase the risk for a variety of conditions, including ADHD in children. Many of the synthetic colors used in cosmetics are derived from coal tar or petroleum sources. In addition to being linked to ADHD, artificial colors are also suspected of causing cancers and skin irritation.

4. Phthalates

Phthalates have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer, reproductive birth defects, and early breast development. However, the chemicals continue to be used in products because the chemicals increase the softness and flexibility of plastics. Phthalates are commonly found in perfumes, hair spray, lotions, and nail polish.

5. Formaldehyde and Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives

Formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and formaldehyde are common ingredients in makeup because they help prevent bacteria growth. It can be found in eye shadows, nail polish, shampoos, and conditioners. It is known to cause skin irritation and has been linked to an increase in the risk of some cancers. Its use has been banned or restricted by Canada, Sweden, Japan, and some countries in the EU.

6. Siloxanes

These silicone-based compounds are used in moisturizers to smooth, soften, and moisten. They are also used in deodorants and hair products. Some sources report that these chemicals have the potential for harming the reproductive, immune, and nervous systems.

7. Octinoxate

Octinoxate is used in cosmetics because it can keep them intact after exposure to the sun. However, the chemical is linked to breast cancer, thyroid disorders, and endocrine disruption. Octinoxate is commonly found in lipsticks, sunscreens, and skin creams.

8. Heavy Metals

Nickel, chrome, lead, and other heavy metals can be found in some makeup products and may be found as a byproduct of color additives. Heavy metals have been known to cause a variety of health problems, including lung cancer, brain damage, and birth-related problems.

9. Parabens

Parabens are a common preservative used in makeup products to prevent the growth of mold, bacteria, and yeast. However, parabens have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

10. Propylene glycol

Propylene glycol can be found in a variety of cosmetic products used as a skin-conditioning agent. However, it has been linked to causing hives and dermatitis in some individuals.

Are Makeup Products Safe to Use?

Manufacturers claim that the cosmetics they sell are safe to use for their intended purposes when used in accordance with the instructions and directions for use. If you are concerned about a particular product, you can research the ingredients to determine for yourself if the product is safe to use. If you believe a product has caused you to be injured or suffer harm, you may want to speak with a product liability lawyer about your legal rights.

Are you concerned about potentially harmful ingredients in your makeup?

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