Clean. All-natural. Pure. These are some of the biggest buzzwords in cosmetics today. But what do they really mean? Does having “clean” products in your makeup bag make a difference? The answer is yes–absolutely! But since there’s not much oversight of the cosmetics industry, we need to find brands we can trust to be sure they’re living up to the label.
How Can I Make Sure My Makeup Is Clean?
It’s pretty simple: when we shop for clean makeup, we want products that don’t contain chemicals that will hurt our skin or bodies. Unfortunately, the cosmetics industry is not as carefully regulated as it should be, so making good choices can be tough. The U.S. government doesn’t require health studies or testing on personal care products, so we rely on non-profits like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and trusted physicians and skincare professionals to help us choose the best and safest products.
What Are Some Chemicals I Should Avoid in Makeup?
Research is showing that toxic ingredients in makeup can go way beyond damaging the skin; they can enter the bloodstream and disrupt hormone production and even cause cancer. Here are some of the worst offenders on the “dirty” ingredients list:
- Parabens are chemicals used as preservatives in cosmetics and personal care products. According to the EWG, they can disrupt hormones in the body, harm fertility and reproductive organs and increase the risk of cancer.
- Talc is a name for the mineral magnesium silicate, a common ingredient in lower-grade cosmetics. While the U.S. government considers it safe studies have shown that some talc is contaminated with asbestos.
- Phthalates are chemicals found in plastics that are also used for color and fragrance in some cosmetics. They have been shown to disrupt the endocrine system and can cause reproductive, developmental and other health concerns, according to European studies. Phthalates have been banned in cosmetics in the European Union.
- Artificial fragrances and dyes are also under-regulated and under-researched and can cause skin irritation and other health problems.
How Can I Find a Makeup Brand I Can Trust?
The EWG’s Skin Deep database evaluates safety studies and combs through ingredient lists on cosmetics, giving products a rating from low to high hazard. The EWG rating system is a great place to start in your search for clean makeup. Your dermatologist, cosmetic surgeon or esthetician are also excellent resources for finding clean makeup you can trust. But what makes a truly clean makeup brand? Let’s look at Jane Iredale cosmetics for some insight into a brand that’s doing it right.
Jane Iredale has been one of the most trusted names in clean beauty for 25 years, with a focus on clean ingredients and simplicity. Jane was at the forefront of creating makeup that’s good for the skin long before the most recent research on the dangers of chemicals in cosmetics made headlines. Jane Iredale cosmetics, with the tagline “The Skincare Makeup”, are free of parabens, talc, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, fillers and GMO ingredients. They’re extensively tested for safety, way beyond any government requirements. For Jane and her team, makeup is about enhancing natural beauty. Her holistic approach involves nourishing and supporting skin health, then finishing with pure makeup to achieve a luminous look. As Jane says, “Skin health is the ultimate foundation.”
For Jane’s company, this has meant finding “clean” solutions like alternatives to parabens for preservatives and carefully choosing dyes and fragrances. Because of their reputation for purity and gentleness, Jane Iredale cosmetics are regularly recommended by doctors and estheticians following cosmetic procedures or treatments. But they’re not just post-treatment products–they’re perfect for anyone with sensitive skin or who simply wants some of the best non-toxic products around. Jane Iredale also gets top ratings from EWG for her low-hazard products, which receive the best possible ratings for safety and clean ingredients.
Clean Makeup at Radiance
At Radiance Salon and Medi-Spa, we’re incredibly choosy about the products we recommend and sell. We understand that selecting products for post-procedure skincare is key to a healthy recovery. And these products are great for your skin health any time. We’ve done our due diligence to bring our clients the best and safest cosmetics. That’s why the Jane Iredale line is such a good fit. Consider scheduling an appointment with one of our team for a makeup consultation and application, so you can learn about the options and colors that are best for your skin type and your style. We use Jane’s line ourselves and are 100 percent confident that the products are clean and good for your skin. Oh… and they look great, too!
