Parabens are commonly used as preservatives in cosmetics. Here are answers to questions that consumers often ask about the safety and use of these ingredients.
The good news is that it was much easier to find paraben free makeup in 2018! Parabens are a hot topic these days. While the medical community feels parabens are safe based upon our current level of knowledge and scientific research (Dr. Cynthia Bailey has a great post going over parabens in skin care ), there are people who want to avoid parabens. 15 Paraben free makeup brands – without Phthalates and Silicones. Makeup products are using a variety of chemical additives in order to achieve their effects permanently. However, these ingredients are often problematic for the human body and the environment. Three of these ingredients in makeup are parabens, phthalates and silicones. “Also, if you turn in 6 empty plastic cases they give you a free lipstick, eyeshadow, or lipliner- very cool! #mac4lyfe ” in 4 reviews “ Mac lipsticks especially the new retro Matte liquid color are just amazing and eye shadows are legit. ” in 13 reviews.
What are parabens, and why are they used in cosmetics?
Parabens are a family of related chemicals that are commonly used as preservatives in cosmetic products. Preservatives may be used in cosmetics to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria and mold, in order to protect both the products and consumers.
The parabens used most commonly in cosmetics are methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, and ethylparaben.
Product ingredient labels typically list more than one paraben in a product, and parabens are often used in combination with other types of preservatives to better protect against a broad range of microorganisms.
What kinds of products contain parabens?
Parabens are used in a wide variety of cosmetics, as well as in foods and drugs. Cosmetics that may contain parabens include makeup, moisturizers, hair care products, and shaving products, among others. Many major brands of deodorants do not currently contain parabens, although some may.
Cosmetics sold to consumers in stores or online must have a list of ingredients, each listed by its common or usual name. This is important information for consumers who want to find out whether a product contains an ingredient they wish to avoid. Parabens are usually easy to identify by their name, such as methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, or ethylparaben.
Does FDA regulate the use of preservatives in cosmetics?
FDA doesn’t have special rules that apply only to preservatives in cosmetics. The law treats preservatives in cosmetics the same as other cosmetic ingredients.
Under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act), cosmetic products and ingredients, other than color additives, do not need FDA approval before they go on the market.
However, it is against the law to market a cosmetic in interstate commerce if it is adulterated or misbranded. This means, for example, that cosmetics must be safe for consumers when used according to directions on the label or in the customary way, and they must be properly labeled.
FDA can take action against a cosmetic on the market that does not comply with the laws we enforce. However, to take action against a cosmetic for safety reasons, we must have reliable scientific information showing that the product is harmful when consumers use it according to directions on the label or in the customary way.
For more on this subject, see
Are parabens safe as they’re used in cosmetics? Are they linked to breast cancer or other health problems?
FDA scientists continue to review published studies on the safety of parabens. At this time, we do not have information showing that parabens as they are used in cosmetics have an effect on human health. Here are some of the questions we are considering:
- What do published studies show about the possible hazards of parabens, and on the effects of parabens on human health? For example, do experimental findings with various parabens also happen in real life?
- What are the hazards and risks of not using parabens? If we stop using parabens to protect cosmetics and consumers from harmful bacteria, are there safer alternatives for preservatives?
- If there are paraben-related health effects that are scientifically supported and documented, how do these effects relate to the use of parabens in cosmetics?
- Do the different kinds of parabens act the same or differently in our bodies?
FDA will continue to evaluate new data in this area. If we determine that a health hazard exists, we will advise the industry and the public, and will consider the agency’s legal options under the authority of the FD&C Act to protect the health and welfare of consumers.
Additional Resources
Just like with any other conventional makeup brand, lipstick falls prey to the many issues and dangers of beauty products. In fact, it may be one of the worst beauty products to buy on the market if you are not buying all-natural and organic options.
That is because lipstick is filled with tons of chemical ingredients that are toxic to our bodies, but most notably, they contain dense levels of strong pigmentation to give them their rich and vibrant color – and of course, that pigmentation is not coming from natural sources, but artificially crafted color.
The 10 Best Natural and Organic Lipsticks:
Since we have learned a little bit about the toxic ingredients commonly found in lipstick, what the avoid, and how to choose a lipstick that is safe and healthy, let us check out the 10 best natural and organic lipsticks.
1. 100% Pure Cocoa Butter Matte Lipstick
This special formula always makes sure your lips never look dry and cracked, but full and plump. This lipstick is colored with fruit pigments and no synthetic colors made in a lab. Colors come from fruits like cabernet grapes, plums, tomatoes, blueberries, blackberries, apricots, peaches, pomegranates, and tons more! Pure cocoa butter, shea butter, and vitamin E oil act as nourishing ingredients to keep your lips soft and hydrated. It also helps the color of the lipstick to be more vibrant.
These matte lipsticks come in a wide range of colors and are matte, opaque, and long-lasting wear. All of 100% Pure’s lipsticks are vegan
2. W3LL PEOPLE – Nudist ColorBalm Stick
W3ll People is a much-loved brand and the recipient of many makeup and beauty awards for the best natural and healthy makeup and beauty products. This lipstick and lip balm gives your lips sheen color and is not too thick, heavy, and cakey. This is a deeply nourishing lipstick balm that provides gorgeous shine and deeply penetrating lip moisture. The extreme moisture comes from organic omega and rosehip oils and aloe vera to soothe cracked and chapped lips.
Nudist ColorBalm also has a natural fragrance of vanilla mint and it is made with 100% natural ingredients. This product is made in the USA and is never tested on animals as well.
Made WITHOUT Artificial preservatives, parabens, harsh chemicals, dyes, fragrance, silicone, dimethicone, phthalates, sulfates, petroleum, talc, bismuth oxychloride, and nanoparticles.
3. Rejuva Minerals Pur’ Lips Lipstick
Rejuva Minerals is an EWG verified brand, so you can feel super safe and confident using their healthy and pure lipsticks. Their lipsticks come in many different shades and are made with 61.65% organic ingredients. They are vegan, gluten-free, and soy-free as well. Pur’ Lips lipstick is color with minerals only and has absolutely no FD&C dyes or carmine (which are actually insect parts – can you say gross?) the lipstick tubes are packaged with no BPA or phthalates.
Ingredients in this lipstick are kept simple with organic sunflower, organic jojoba, pomegranate, mica, organic coconut, organic carnauba, candelilla, vitamin E from sunflowers, organic shea butter, organic vanilla, and iron oxide.
4. Coastal Classic Creations Lipstick
Another EWG verified brand, Coastal Classic lipsticks and beautiful and healthy for your lips and body alike. This lipstick is paraben-free, fragrance-free, allergen-free, and gluten-free.
Ingredients in this lipstick include: Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Seed Oil; Candelilla (Euphorbia Cerifera) Wax; Carnauba (Copernicia Cerifera) Wax; Sesame (Sesamum Indicum) Seed Oil; Orange (Citrus aurantium) Oil; Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citrus) Oil; May Contain: Iron oxides CI 77491, CI 77492*
“*Note: Our iron oxides fully conform to the European Union Directive 2008/128/EC for purity requirements as well as meeting all requirements of US 21 Code of Federal Regulations for purity.”
European regulations on beauty products are significantly more strict than that of the US, so you can feel safe and comfortable with the safety of this lipstick and brand.
5. isoi Bulgarian Rose Lip Treatment Balm
isoi Is EWG verified as well and is also an Amazon top choice. This lipstick is non-toxic and has absolutely no artificial fragrance or chemical colorants. Furthermore, there are no parabens or nasty chemical preservatives either.
This is a great product if you are looking for color-tinted lips, but want your lip color to be protective against rough and chapped lips, especially in the cold winter months. Natural ingredients like Bulgarian rose oil, beeswax, and rosehip oil are perfect for providing your lips with hydrating and essential oil. This will leave your lips feeling soft and supple. Don’t we all want that?
Ingredients in this lipstick include the following: Ricinus Communis (Castor) Seed Oil, Euphorbia Cerifera (Candelilla) Wax, Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Rosa Canina Fruit Oil, Macadamia Ternifolia Seed Oil, Rosa Damascena Flower Oil, Vitis vinifera (Grape) Seed Oil, Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax, Beeswax, Polyglyceryl-3 Polyricinoleate, Sodium Citrate, Dextrin, Carmine, Potassium Alum.
6. True + Luscious Super Moisture Lipstick
Want a lipstick that has gorgeous color but will pack a serious punch of moisture for your lips? If so, you are going to want to get your hands on this natural lipstick. It comes in many fun and neutral colors so there is something for everyone’s taste.
Their formula is made with no sulfates, phthalates, parabens, triclosan, and more than 500 other ingredients to comply with CLEAN beauty standards. It is also cruelty-free and vegan. With natural botanicals and natural fruit and flower extracts, this healthier and cleaner lipstick is definitely something you need to try out.
7. Fifth & Skin Better’n Ur Lips Natural Lipstick
This moisturizing lipstick is made with natural and organic ingredients that are meant to deeply moisturize and nourish your lips when you are wearing it. Mango butter, coconut oil, cocoa butter, grape seed oil gives the lipstick its lush and moisturizing feel that you desperately need when wearing lipstick.
Other ingredients like oregano, thyme, cinnamon, vanilla, rosemary, lavender, and mineral colors finish off the lipstick formula. They always make their lipstick in the USA and follow strict guidelines for keeping their products clean and safe.
8. Mineral Fusion Gem Lip Stick
Mineral Fusion makes lots of natural and high-quality makeup that so many people love and their bold and rich lipstick are no different. It comes in heaps of colors, it helps soften your lips so they don’t dry out, and it also has really good staying power for a natural lipstick.
You also do not have to worry about your lipstick feathering or smudging as you wear it. Powerful antioxidants like pomegranate, red tea, white tea, vitamins C, and vitamin E help protect and nourish your lips at the same time.
9. Luxury by Sofia Organic Lipstick
This highly pigmented organic lipstick is made with healthy and simple ingredients like castor Oil, Sunflower Seed Oil, Shea Butter, Jojoba Seed Oil, Coconut Oil, Olive Leaf Extract, Lavender Flower Extract, Vitamin E, and Vanilla Extract, and so much more!
The lipstick is 100% free from any and all chemicals so you don’t have to worry one bit about what you are applying to your lips so close to your mouth. You will also not find any gluten; it is vegan as well and cruelty-free. It is long-lasting, moisturizing, and will not smudge.
Paraben Free Mineral Makeup
10. Mom’s Secret Natural Matte Lipstick
Made with organic and all-natural ingredients, Mom’s Secret lipstick may just be the best-kept secret in the organic makeup industry. This lipstick is vegan, gluten-free, cruelty-free, and non-GMO. You will not find any artificial colors or preservatives as well. It is made in the USA from antioxidant-rich ingredients that also moisturize, nourish, and heal your lips.
Examples of these powerful ingredients are coconut oil, avocado oil, and jojoba oil. Even though this is a matte lipstick that can tend to feel super dry and heavier on the lips, the addition of the oils keeps your lips feeling hydrated and healthy as you wear the lipstick.
The Dangers of “Unnatural” Lipstick
Heavy Metals
Many popular unnatural brands of lipstick contain very concerning levels of heavy metals. According to a study done at the University of California-Berkley School of Public Health, they tested 32 different lipsticks and lip glosses contained heavy metals that include chromium, lead, cadmium, manganese, and aluminum.
- Chromium – a known human carcinogen and linked to stomach tumors and cancers.
- Lead – a neurotoxin and hormone disruptor with no safe limits for the human body.
- Cadmium – accumulative exposure to our body can cause liver damage and fragile bones.
- Manganese – too much of this metal can cause symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
- Aluminum –a known neurotoxin and carcinogen.
Although the FDA has set “safe” limits for these heavy metals, research may be flawed. Additionally, they do not take into account how accumulative exposure to these heavy metals in beauty products will affect the human body in the long run – which is the most important aspect right? This is so concern for lipstick use because most women reapply their lipstick at least two times per day. Over the course of a lifetime, that is a lot of heavy metal buildup within the human body.
Other Ingredients to Watch Out For
Heavy metals in your lipstick are not the only toxic ingredients you need to be concerned about. Below are just a few of the other chemical and toxic ingredients found in conventional lipstick that may have detrimental effects on the human body. This is by no means a comprehensive list and many more concerning ingredients are lurking in those fancy lipstick tubes.
Which Lipstick Is Paraben Free
Phthalates and Synthetic Fragrance
Both of these ingredients should be avoided at all costs. The fragrance is where many companies can hide a laundry list of chemicals and artificial ingredients. Companies are not required to disclose what is included in the term “fragrance.” Additionally, most fragrances are stabilized with phthalates, which are chemicals that are linked to reproductive issues and birth defects when tested on animals.
BHA and BHT
BHA and BHT are often found in foundations as a preservative. They are a type of synthetic antioxidant and can cause cancers and negatively affect hormone function in the body. Exposure to these substances for an extended period of time has been linked to liver, kidney, and thyroid conditions in mice and can promote tumor growth in certain conditions.
Methylparabens and Propylparabens
These are parabens that are used as a preservative in many cosmetics, including lipsticks. The scary thing is that while we can still use these ingredients in the US, they have been banned all throughout the EU because they have been proven as toxic to humans.
How to Find a Safe Lipstick
There is a couple of tricks that make it easy when you are searching for your new natural lipstick. Many brands claim they are natural or “uses natural ingredients.” However, that doesn’t mean they are actually natural – it could still be loaded with chemicals and toxic ingredients. Since cosmetics are not fully regulated, cosmetic companies are not required to fully disclose what is in their products.
This means that all a company has to do is use one naturally derived ingredient in their product such as jojoba oil, and they can claim they use “natural ingredients.” Obviously, this does not mean the product is safe or natural.
Be sure that you read the ingredient list and keep an eye out for any of the above ingredients that are commonly found in lipsticks. Some natural and organic brands can still use ingredients you may not want to use for your body. We always like to say that if you cannot pronounce an ingredient or have no idea what the ingredient is, put that lipstick product down and search for another option.
Conclusion
Often, a laundry list of ingredients is a red flag as well and all of those ingredients are unnecessary. Try and find lipsticks and lip-glosses with as few ingredients as possible.
This article was last updated on June 14, 2021 .