We all want to live a cleaner, “greener” life. From the products we use in our home, to the ones we apply on our bodies each day, most of us do our best to avoid carcinogenic ingredients, right? But what if these questionable ingredients are hiding in plain sight, down to the very last detail, our lipstick.
For years, lipstick companies have been under scrutiny for the toxic heavy metals found in their formulations. Lead became the focus of consumer concern in the early 2000s and the Food and Drug Administration set limits for the amount of lead used in color additives used in cosmetics (although, have not set limits for overall use of lead in cosmetics). Learn more at fda.gov/cosmetics.
Many debate how much lipstick is actually ingested by the average user and argue that many cosmetic ingredients, even eyebrow raising ones, are still safe at such low exposure levels. In my years within the eco-beauty industry, one thing I’ve learned for sure is that buyers must be responsible and aware. We must become our own advocates and choose only the best-of-the-best in clean, organic skincare and cosmetics. Lipstick is especially cause to be careful, as it’s a product that’s actually ingested. Varying studies suggest the average lipstick wearer consumes about 3-7 pounds of lipstick in a lifetime – that’s not something to gloss over!
Skip the heavy metals, parabens, phthalates and synthetic dyes and fragrances by choosing products that are as minimally processed as possible. The clean beauty scene has boomed within the past few years and indie eco-savvy brands are creating beautiful, functional cosmetics using good-for-you-ingredients. So, pucker up! Let’s explore five of my most loved natural lipstick options. Hopefully, these suggestions will encourage you to shop small and shop smart!
Bottom line: You don’t have to sacrifice luxury when making the swap to safe organic cosmetics.
1) Modern Minerals Lotus Wei Infused Lip Gloss, Goddess, $24
Made with pure mineral based pigments, this non-sticky line of gloss is infused with the emotive flower and gemstone essences (you won’t find any synthetic fragrances, here!) My favorite shade this season is Goddess, a sheer wash of 100% vegan carmine-free red pigments inspired by Sacred Beauty Salon Series, a spiritual wellness workshop created by eco-makeup artist Rebecca Casciano.
2) VMV Hypoallergenics Velvet Matte Lipstick, Babe, $27
Founded by a leading dermatologist specializing in contact dermatitis, VMV Hypoallergenics is the best choice for the uber-sensitive and anyone looking to entirely avoid all-types-of-fragrance. Every item is stringently patch tested and validated hypoallergenic through double blind clinical studies. Plus, the addition of antioxidant green tea and their signature organic virgin coconut oil provides intensive hydration!
3) Vapour Organic Beauty Siren Lipstick, Desire, $25
Infused with organic botanicals such as pomegranate and rose, these silky rich shades are some of my favorites! Sheer yet buildable pigments make this product great for day or night. Shade Desire is a warm, rosy pink that offers a hint of healthy color that lasts. Extra credit: Vapour Organic Beauty products are made with wind power and biodegradable or recyclable ingredients and packaging!
4) NUDUS Australian Certified Organic Lipstick, 27 Kisses, $34
This splurge-worthy line of gluten free lipstick hails from down under and is packed with ancient Ayurvedic bioactive color extracts made from flowers, fruits, herbs and minerals. Shade 27 Kisses is a rich reddish mauve that suits all skin types and contains 27 active natural ingredients that help to combat free radical oxidative damage.
5) 100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Lip Butter, Peach, $15
Formulated with skin-quenching natural ingredients like avocado, shea, and cocoa butters, this lip (and cheek!) cream will leave lips soft and hydrated. Plus, you can find 100% Pure in many drugstores such as Walgreens which makes it an affordable, convenient option for on-the-go shopping. Shade Peach is my everyday go-to for an effortlessly natural glow!
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