Why Natural Makeup?

Natural. Raw. Vegan. Healthy. Organic. Paraben free. Sulfate free. The list goes on and on — and all of those words are appealing to most consumers. We want to buy things that are safe for our skin and bodies, so we look for those words and phrases on packaging and in ads.

But what does it really mean to be using “natural makeup”? And why is it important? While you make not notice the effects of various chemicals and unsafe ingredients day to day, there can be negative long-term impact of using products that are not clean and natural.

So what should you be looking for? And why are these things important? Here are three things to be aware of as you shop for natural, vegan makeup and skincare products.

1. Sulfates Aren’t Great

To a common consumer, sulfates may just be another word that’s thrown around in the beauty industry. And, while there’s been no studies proving they cause an increased risk of cancer, infertility, or development issues, it still doesn’t mean they’re “good” for you. In fact, according to Healthline, there is a risk of “irritation to your eyes, skin, mouth, and lungs. For people with sensitive skin, sulfates may also clog pores and cause acne.” Sounds like the opposite of what your makeup and skincare products should be doing!

2. Skip Synthetic Colors

Did you know that (according to CivilizedCosmetics.com) more than 60 percent of anything you apply to your skin can end up in your bloodstream? If that fact scares you, there’s a good chance you’re putting unhealthy, unnatural products on your skin each and everyday.

Today, there are only seven synthetic colors that are on the FDA’s “approved” list. That’s because, since 1906, 72 synthetic colors have become illegal in consumable products, according to Forbes.com. Why would you choose to use something that has been proven dangerous and unhealthy in 72 other varieties when there are safe, natural alternatives?

3. Press Pause on Parabens

“Parabens” is another word you may have heard and looked for on bottles, but not really known what it meant. According to Elle, parabens are preservatives that prolong the shelf life of products by preventing the growth of mold and bacteria. While that may seem appealing (no one likes to throw out product because it’s gone bad!), those preservatives are not good for you. In fact, they can “disrupt hormone function” and are linked to breast cancer and reproductive issues. 

Look for products without parabens and instead be willing to restock when products go bad, because natural makeup and skincare products are much better for your health.