Some apply only one layer of mascara, but others have a closet full of makeup and never leave the house with a bare face. No matter if you use a lot or just a little, we all have the same intention: to make ourselves as beautiful as possible, even if we make a makeup mistake (or two). You may ask yourself if all that makeup isn’t harmful to your skin. We answer all your questions.
Is makeup bad for your health?
No. In Europe, we have the European Cosmetics Regulation: the legal regulations of cosmetic products. Here you find all the rules that European countries must meet before brands can launch their products. The primary requirement of the Regulation states: cosmetic products, only when used correctly, may not damage your health. Makeup products are therefore strictly controlled before you can go to the shops to buy them.
Although the controls are very strict, sometimes toxic substances are found in makeup. In 2007 this happened to L’Oréal when lead was found in lipsticks. The concentration of lead was a lot lower than what the WHO advises on your daily intake. Even if you’d eat the lipstick, it still wouldn’t be damaging to your health. Lead and other toxic substances are not deliberately added as an ingredient of a cosmetic product. It comes from natural products that makeup contains, such as water.
Is makeup bad for your skin?
No. Cosmetic products always indicate how long a product will last after opening and with good reason. After the expiration date, bacteria and fungi will grow in your makeup. You won’t be able to see them as you would on food, but they are there. We throw mouldy food into the bin, and you should do the same with your expired makeup products. In general, a mascara will only last you three months after opening, and your foundation will last for a year. Your lip-gloss, eyeshadow, and powder will expire after 18 months.
Is it safe to borrow or use your friend’s makeup?
No. Makeup is a breeding ground for bacteria, but it won’t harm you as long as they’re yours. By using your friend’s makeup, you transfer somebody else’s bacteria onto your skin. Using someone else’s makeup can lead to pinkeye and cold sores. We recommend that you always use your makeup and don’t share any makeup products.
Can you wear makeup in the sun?
No. No matter how thick the layer is that you’ve applied, makeup is not a sunscreen and doesn’t contain SPF in most cases. On the contrary. Glossy makeup only attracts the sun, and you risk the chance of getting a sunburn. It’s always a good idea to wear a day cream with no less than SPF 15 under your makeup, even in the winter. Are you going sunbathing? Then we recommend you wear no makeup at all.
Is hypoallergenic makeup better than regular makeup?
No. Most people think that hypoallergenic makeup can’t cause allergic reactions, and unfortunately, that is not the case. Even when you don’t have any allergies or tendencies to be allergic, you can get an allergic reaction to hypoallergenic makeup. Hypoallergenic makeup only reduces the chances of having an allergic reaction. This is why it is commonly used by women with sensitive skin.
Is pharmacy makeup any worse than high-end makeup?
No. European regulations for cosmetics don’t differ between inexpensive and expensive makeup. As a result, both expensive and inexpensive makeup have to meet equal requirements. According to Environmental Defence’s research, they looked at the presence of metals in makeup. That showed that metals were found in both expensive and inexpensive makeup. When it comes to expensive makeup, you can assume it has better quality and will stay on your face longer.
Is it safe to use makeup testers in cosmetic stores?
Yes/No. It all depends on how the testers are applied. You risk the chances of getting ill if you use the product straight from the tester. Dr. Elizabeth Brooks’ research showed that 100% of the testers were contaminated with E-coli, streptococcal and staphylococcal bacteria. You can clean the surface of the makeup tester with a tissue or tissue dipped in alcohol before applying makeup. And always use disposable applicators or cotton swabs, never communal makeup brushes. If the brush is made of animal hair, bacteria can grow into the actual hair and the brush will be harder to clean.
Discover our makeup offers
