the shocking fact about your lipstick and what you can do about it

the shocking fact about your lipstick and what you can do about it

It may shock you to know that if you wear lipstick, you’re likely to be inadvertently consuming PFAS.

Why is that shocking?

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of chemicals found in a variety of products, such as clothing, furniture, adhesives, non stick cookware, and more, as well as in rivers, lakes, and water and land animals. They’re known as “forever chemicals” because they can bioaccumulate and remain in bodies over time. They’ve been linked to cancer, thyroid disease, liver damage, decreased fertility, hormone disruption, and more.

In cosmetics, PFAS are meant to provide longer lasting color but they may be causing long-lasting illnesses as well.

A June 2021 Fox News article quotes Graham Peaslee, senior author of a study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters and professor of physics at the University of Notre Dame: “… chemicals in lipstick and other makeup and personal care products are almost entirely unregulated in the U.S. and Canada. As a result, millions of people are unknowingly wearing PFAS and other harmful chemicals on their faces and bodies daily.”

The study found high levels of a marker for toxic PFAS in 52% of 231 cosmetic products available for purchase in the United States and Canada, although PFAS did not appear on those cosmetic product labels. Some of the highest levels were found in foundations (63%), waterproof mascara (82%), and long-lasting lipstick (62%), according to the study.

In November 2021, Mamavation, an award-winning consumer activist website that helps women make safer consumer choices for their families, conducted their own study of specifically “green” cosmetics and found the same problem. Mamavation tested for fluorine, which is an indicator of PFAS, and determined that the pure haven products they tested had no detectable levels. As a result, our mascara, clear shine lip gloss, and tinted moisturizers are now on Mamavation’s list of Best Green Beauty Cosmetic Brands Sans PFAS “Forever Chemicals.”

What can you do about it?

Even small changes in your day-to-day routine matter when it comes to bioaccumulating toxins. Protect yourself by making the switch to clean, PFAS-free beauty with pure haven. From an everyday skin care collection that helps protect and nourish skin, resulting in a healthy, radiant glow, to safe cosmetics like our mascara, clear shine lip gloss, and tinted moisturizers, your pure haven Consultant has you covered. Reach out today to learn more.