There have long been suspicions over the level of toxins in make-up. There have been numerous reports of safety risks and in particular the lead levels in lipsticks.
According to a recent report by e Max Health, eyeliner and concealers contain Cadmium , powders and blushers are not Nickel-free, Beryllium is found in bronzers, eye-shadows, mascara and foundations even include Arsenic.
A 2011 report found that heavy metals are all too common in some make-ups. The Environmental Defence report examined the health risks of hidden heavy metals in face make-up. The Ontario- based researchers analysed the products for the presence of Arsenic, Cadmium, Lead, Beryllium, Nickel, Selenium and Thallium-The latter four of which are banned in cosmetic sales in Canada..
According to the health site, they found that all of the toxins but mercury were found in every tested product. On average, each product contained four of the toxins of concern. Not one of the heavy metals was labelled on packaging-because they are considered to be ‘impurities’, not added intentionally but existing only as a by- product.
Specifically, Clinique Stay True make-up contained arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, nickel, lead and thallium while Cover Girl Perfect Point Plus eyeliner contained beryllium, cadmium, nickel and lead.
Some popular mascaras were shown to include arsenic, beryllium, cadmium, nickel, lead and thallium in its formula.
The effects of the toxins, which can be absorbed through the skin can cause health problems including hormone disruption, cancer, neurological problems, memory loss, mood swings, reproductive and developmental disorders, kidney problems, headaches, vomiting/diarrhoea, lung damage, dermatitis and hair loss.
The campaign for safe cosmetics is calling for make-up giants to reformulate their products and make content labelling clearer.
Speaking today about the results of these studies and the worrying effects of some of these products Liam Moloney Healthcare Solicitor said ‘’consumers are entitled to know exactly what cosmetics products contain. People want products they know are safe for their health and the environment . It is essential that the Irish Medicines Board investigate the possibility that cosmetic products for sale in Ireland contain proper product labelling and if they contain dangerous chemicals that consumers are warned as to the safety risks before purchasing them’’.
