5 Chemicals Used in Makeup Products That Harm Your Health

All cosmetics ranging from lipsticks to foundation creams contain a wide variety of chemicals. Most women today, including teenagers, use makeup almost every day. The regular use of too much makeup may affect your skin adversely.

Sometimes, these chemicals can affect more than just your skin. You may be using too much makeup at the cost of your health. Let’s examine the chemicals in makeup and their side effects.

# Cadmium

Eye shadows, lipsticks, lotions, mascaras, and many other cosmetic products have been found to contain the element cadmium. Studies show the association of cadmium exposure with renal dysfunction and bone diseases, and in very severe cases, cancers. Cadmium accumulates in the bone and is associated with osteomalacia and osteoporosis.

# Toluene

Toluene, a chemical often found in nail polish and some hair dyes, has emerged as one of the well-studied neurotoxins. Studies demonstrate that exposure to too much toluene can affect the central nervous system. The exposure to this chemical can cause damage to the central nervous system and may lead to disorders like dementia. Toluene leukoencephalopathy is another health condition that may arise due to the exposure to this chemical.

# Benzophenones

Benzophenones are chemicals used in personal care products to protect them from the ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The primary sources of these chemicals include topical sunscreens and other cosmetics like lip balm and nail polish. These chemicals, when used regularly, may cause adverse skin reactions like contact and photocontact dermatitis and contact and photocontact urticaria. They may also cause severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis.

# Parabens

Parabens are chemicals or preservatives that are added to cosmetic products to prevent the growth of microbes like bacteria. They are commonly found in shampoos, conditioners, lotions, facial and shower cleansers, and scrubs. The exposure to this chemical is closely associated with breast cancer. Other health conditions include endocrine system disruption, skin cancer, and developmental and reproductive toxicity which include reduced sperm production and testosterone levels.

# Lead

Lead is one of the leading impurities in color cosmetics, especially lipsticks. Studies show that the long-term exposure to low doses of lead in childhood may result in learning, language, and behavioral problems. This chemical is also closely linked to infertility in both men and women.

# Talc

Talc is found in baby powders, deodorants, hygiene products, face masks, and lotions. It may contain the cancer-causing agent known as asbestos. It is added to cosmetic products to absorb moisture and to soften the products. There are studies that link the use of talc powders with ovarian cancer.